ALBANY The State Public Service Commission is supporting National Consumer Protection Week, March 7-13, and will participate in several consumer events during the week.

The theme of this year's National Consumer Protection Week, Dollars and Sense: Rated A for All Ages, highlights the importance of using good consumer sense at every stage of life - from grade school through retirement.

The PSC's current outreach and education efforts are focused on informing consumers of their right and protections as utility or energy service company (ESCO) customers. These safeguards help ensure that residential customers receive fair treatment from the utility or ESCO including protections applicable to service terminations, the availability of deferred payment arrangements, and budget billing. Also, information concerning energy efficiency and agency programs will be available.

This year's National Consumer Protection Week message is simple: it's never too early or too late to become a more informed and empowered consumer. Regardless of age and financial situation, everyone can learn about spending and managing their energy-related dollars wisely.