UniSource Customers Receive Surprise Shipment of Lights from Tucson Sister Company

UniSource customers in Lake Havasu City and Mohave County recently received unexpected packages containing energy-efficient night lights. This surprising delivery was the result of a mix-up by Tucson Electric Power (TEP), the sister company of UniSource.

According to a statement shared on social media, the TEP-branded night lights were mailed to some UniSource electric customers due to an error involving TEP’s contractor. The contractor, which facilitates energy-efficient programs, inadvertently sent these items to the wrong customer base.

TEP issued an apology for the confusion, clarifying that the lights and their shipping were funded entirely by TEP to promote energy-saving practices. Joe Barrios from TEP confirmed the mistake and emphasized that the initiative is part of a broader effort to educate customers about managing energy consumption and adopting energy-efficient tools.

Customer Jeremy Miller reported receiving a box but has yet to open it, expressing that he finds no need for the lights. He also mentioned that his mail carrier has been overwhelmed by the volume of similar packages being delivered.

A wave of frustration among customers has surfaced on social media, with some users alleging that these mailings were financed through recent rate hikes. However, UniSource clarified that TEP bore the costs associated with the lights, ensuring that these actions are not reflected in UniSource rates.

Ongoing protests in Lake Havasu City against electricity rate increases have drawn significant community response, with residents rallying and signing petitions to persuade the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) to reconsider the raised rates approved earlier this year. Similar sentiments have been echoed in Kingman.

Rising electricity costs have adversely affected both residential and commercial customers, as well as the municipal budget. During a recent public forum, City Manager Jess Knudson revealed that the city has already spent approximately $1.3 million on electricity this fiscal year, which began on July 1. The bulk of these expenses arises from the operation of crucial infrastructure, including the city’s three large water treatment plants and lift stations.