These principles build upon AARP’s general consumer principles, which apply to all products and services, including utilities (see also, Chapter 11, Financial Services and Consumer Products—AARP Consumer Principles).
Ensure service affordability for all—utility rates should be based on prudent use of ratepayer money. Costs and savings should be distributed fairly among consumers. Households with lower incomes must be taken into account.
Secure and expand service access for all—all consumers should have access to utility services regardless of factors such as geography, race, ethnicity, and income.
Improve quality—consumers should be able to rely on high-quality utility services.
Enhance accountability—any changes in utility service, policy, or rates should be open and transparent. The process should provide a wide range of opportunities for input from the public and independent groups.