To file a billing complaint with the Colorado utility commission, submit it to the Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC) for regulated utilities. The Office of the Utility Consumer Advocate (UCA) does not accept utility complaints and directs them to the PUC. This applies to PUC-regulated energy and water providers listed on the PUC site.
What Controls Utility Billing Complaints in Colorado
The Colorado PUC oversees complaints for regulated utilities, including billing issues. Their providers page states: "If you have a complaint or concern about regulated utilities, please file a complaint here." This directs users to an online filing option.
The UCA confirms it does not handle utility complaints or provide legal services, explicitly stating they must go through the PUC. PUC-regulated providers appear in bold on the PUC providers list, which also includes Designated Agent contacts for those companies.
Check If Your Utility Is PUC-Regulated
Not all utilities fall under PUC jurisdiction. Review the official PUC list of jurisdictional energy and water providers, where regulated ones are bolded. Unregulated providers follow company-specific processes, not PUC complaints.
| Step | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Visit PUC providers page | Check if your utility is bolded (regulated) at https://puc.colorado.gov/utilityproviders |
| 2 | Note contacts | Use Designated Agent info for initial outreach if needed |
| 3 | Confirm scope | PUC handles regulated utilities only; others excluded |
Practical Next Steps to File a Complaint
Gather account details, billing statements, and any utility correspondence. The PUC providers page lists Designated Agent contacts for regulated companies. File formally with PUC via their online form linked on the providers page.
PUC reviews submitted complaints for regulated utilities.
Evidence checklist:
- Account number and service address
- Copies of disputed bills
- Records of payments or communications with the utility
What Does NOT Control Utility Billing Complaints
PUC utility complaints differ from credit card chargebacks under the federal Fair Credit Billing Act, merchant refunds, or general FTC consumer complaints. Federal agencies like FCC handle telecom issues, not PUC-regulated energy or water billing.
The Colorado Attorney General's Office covers non-utility consumer protection, not these disputes. UCA redirects without direct handling.
FAQ
Is every utility in Colorado regulated by PUC?
No. Check the PUC providers list for bolded (regulated) ones at https://puc.colorado.gov/utilityproviders.
Does PUC guarantee bill refunds or adjustments?
Official guidance does not specify outcomes or refunds.
Can I call PUC instead of filing online?
Use the official PUC site for all contact options, including any phone details.
What about high bill complaints?
PUC receives them for regulated providers; file via their process.