What is PUG Gas Charges in SSGC Bill?

Have you ever received an SSGC bill with a mysterious charge called “PUG”? If so, you’re not alone. PUG stands for “Passing Un-registered Gas,” and it can be a source of confusion for many customers. This article explains what PUG Gas charges are, why they appear on your bill, and how to avoid them.

What is PUG?

Imagine your gas meter is like a cash register at a store. It keeps track of how much gas you use. But what happens if the cash register malfunctions and doesn’t record all the sales? In the case of a gas meter, this is called PUG. The meter isn’t accurately registering the amount of gas you’re using.

There are two main reasons a meter might become a PUG meter:

• Complete Failure: Sometimes, a meter can completely stop working due to technical problems. This means it won’t record any gas usage at all.
• Slow Meter: Over time, due to wear and tear, a meter can become sluggish. It might under-record the actual gas you’re using.

Why Does SSGC Charge for PUG?

Since the meter isn’t recording the actual gas used, SSGC can’t bill you based on accurate readings. To ensure they’re compensated for the gas supplied, they estimate your consumption for the period the meter was malfunctioning. This estimated amount is then reflected as the PUG charge on your bill.

How Does SSGC Calculate PUG Charges?

SSGC typically calculates PUG charges in two ways:

• Three Months’ Average: They look at your gas consumption for the past three months and take an average. This average is then used as an estimate for the period the meter was a PUG.
• New Meter Reading: When SSGC replaces your PUG meter with a new one, they’ll monitor the new meter’s readings for a while. This new consumption data is then used to estimate the gas used during the PUG period.

How to Avoid PUG Charges?

While PUG charges can be frustrating, there are ways to minimize the risk:

• Report Meter Issues: If you suspect your meter isn’t working properly, contact SSGC immediately. They can send a technician to inspect the meter and address any problems.
• Regular Meter Maintenance: SSGC has a scheduled meter replacement program. If you’re notified that your meter is due for replacement, cooperate with the process to ensure an accurate meter is installed.
• Monitor Your Consumption: Keep an eye on your gas meter readings regularly. If you notice a sudden drop in consumption, it might indicate a meter issue. Report any such observation to SSGC.

What to Do if You Have PUG Charges on Your Bill?

If you see PUG charges on your bill and believe they are inaccurate, you can contest them. Here’s what you can do:

• Contact SSGC: Call their customer service or visit their office to discuss the PUG charges. Explain your concerns and request a review of the calculation.
• Provide Evidence: If you have any records of your gas usage during the PUG period (e.g., previous bills with normal consumption), present them to SSGC to support your claim.
• Consumer Courts: If you’re not satisfied with SSGC’s response, you can file a complaint with the consumer court in your area.

Important Points to Remember

• PUG charges are a way for SSGC to recover the cost of gas you used, even if the meter didn’t record it accurately.
• The charges are based on an estimated consumption, which might not always reflect your actual usage.
• Taking steps to maintain your meter and reporting any issues promptly can help avoid PUG charges.
• If you have PUG charges on your bill and believe they are incorrect, you have the right to contest them.

By understanding PUG charges and taking preventive measures, you can ensure your SSGC bill reflects your actual gas consumption and avoid any unnecessary charges.