Black Hills Energy warns customers about scammers

SOUTHERN COLORADO, Colo. (KRDO) -- Black Hills Energy is warning people of scammers trying to take advantage of unsuspecting customers.

Black Hills Energy says they've received numerous calls from customers reporting solicitors approaching their homes, claiming to be solar-related contractors or representatives of the company. According to customers, the scammers are trying to gain access to meters.

The Pueblo-based utility company says those solicitors have no affiliation to Black Hills Energy. In fact, Black Hills says they will always contact customers before coming to homes and they are not working directly with any solar companies at this time.

“Safety is one of our core values and a top priority for all of us at Black Hills Energy,” said Devin Moeller, renewables
manager for Black Hills Energy. “We encourage customers to learn about the simple precautions they can take when
dealing with salespeople and contractors to protect their property and personal information.”

Black Hills Energy says employees wear shirts with a logo, carry a company-issued photo ID, and drive logoed vehicles. Customers can also call Black Hills Energy to verify the worker's identity before giving them access to their property.

That number is 1-800-890-5554.

Additionally, the company says never to provide sensitive information to people, including Social Security numbers, cred card information, or bank account information during an unsolicited phone call or an unannounced visit.