This release was issued under a previous government.

In June 2015, Direct Energy Marketing Ltd. (operating as Direct Energy Home Services) allegedly failed to provide a refund within 15 days after a contract to supply a furnace and air conditioner to a home was cancelled at the request of the homeowner.

Direct Energy Marketing Ltd. has been charged with one count under section 31 of the Fair Trading Act for failing to refund a deposit within 15 days after cancellation, and one count under section 10 of the Act’s Prepaid Contracting Business Licensing Regulation for using a contract that does not contain all the prescribed clauses required within the contract.

The case is scheduled to be heard in Sherwood Park Provincial Court on Jan. 18, 2016.

Penalties under the Fair Trading Act include a maximum fine of $300,000 or three times the amount obtained in the offence – whichever is greater – and up to two years in jail.

Service Alberta is committed to taking every measure to ensure consumers are protected from unfair business practices.

Consumers who have questions or concerns with Direct Energy Marketing Ltd. can contact the Service Alberta Consumer Contact Centre at 1-877-427-4088.

Consumers with questions about their utility bill or contract can contact the Utilities Consumer Advocate at 310-4UCA (4822).