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Business Profile

Electric Companies

Spark Energy, L.P.

This business is NOT BBB Accredited.

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This business has 3 alerts

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Complaints

This profile includes complaints for Spark Energy, L.P.'s headquarters and its corporate-owned locations. To view all corporate locations, see

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    Customer Complaints Summary

    • 72 total complaints in the last 3 years.
    • 17 complaints closed in the last 12 months.

    If you've experienced an issue

    Submit a Complaint

    The complaint text that is displayed might not represent all complaints filed with BBB. Some consumers may elect to not publish the details of their complaints, some complaints may not meet BBB's standards for publication, or BBB may display a portion of complaints when a high volume is received for a particular business.

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    Complaint status

    Complaint type

    • Initial Complaint

      Date:06/27/2025

      Type:Billing Issues
      Status:
      AnsweredMore info

      Complaint statuses

      Resolved:
      The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
      Unresolved:
      The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
      Answered:
      The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
      Unanswered:
      The business failed to respond to the dispute.
      Unpursuable:
      BBB is unable to locate the business.
      Subject: Fraudulent Enrollment in Program Urgent Assistance Needed To Whom It May Concern,I am writing to formally report a situation involving what I believe to be fraudulent activity linked to my PG&E account. Someone came through my apartment complex claiming to be partnered with PG&E. This person stated that he could help prevent an increase in my gas bill by enrolling me in a program.I specifically asked him whether my participation in the ******** program would be impacted. Instead of answering clearly, he became defensive and visibly uncomfortable when I asked him to clarify what I was being asked to consent to. He even attempted to intimidate me for requesting further ************** a result of this interaction, my gas bill has now quadrupled. I am disabled, schizophrenic, and have no income. My housing is subsidized by ****, and my gas bill typically averages around $2 per month, as I only use basic gas service. However, following this incident, there is now a $7 monthly fee with no clear explanation. Additionally, I am being told that it would cost $100 just to cancel whatever was added to my account something I never knowingly agreed to.This situation is extremely distressing and feels predatory. I am requesting that PG&E immediately review my account, remove any unauthorized services or programs, waive any associated fees, and ensure that my enrollment in the ******** program remains active and unaffected.Please treat this as urgent, as I cannot afford these charges.Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.Sincerely,****** ****** ****************** ********** ***********************

      Business Response

      Date: 07/09/2025

      To Whom This May Concern:


      Thank you for bringing ****** ******* concerns to our attention. This is Spark Energys (Spark or the Company) response to BBB Complaint Number 23525832.


      Upon receipt of the BBBs notice, Mr. ******* concerns were immediately investigated. During our review, we found that on June *******, the gas enrollment with Spark was authorized via a Door-to-Door sales representative associated with our third-party vendor **** Services. The account was enrolled in a 12-month fixed-rate plan at $1.249/therm which included a $6.95 *************** Fee and a $100 Early Termination Fee (ETF).


      The enrollment was completed through **** (Electronic Third-Party Verification), a process involving a series of questions sent via a secure link to the customers personal device. The verification must be completed and submitted by the customer, confirming their authorization, and understanding of the enrollment. Please note that the **** process includes clear disclosures of the switch to Spark and the terms of the contract and requires an affirmative confirmation of understanding from the customer. (**** attached)


      We want to emphasize that the sales practices described in the complaint are not tolerated by Spark. The Company is committed to maintaining high standards of integrity and transparency, and we train our agents accordingly to ensure they represent Spark accurately and ethically.This matter has been escalated to our Sales and ******************** for further review and appropriate action.


      To prevent any future solicitations, ******************* address and telephone number have been added to Sparks internal Do Not Contact list.


      Lastly, we confirm that the enrollment has been successfully rescinded at Mr. ******* request, and the account will not become active with Spark.


      Best regards,

      Perla Ramirez | Regulatory Specialist
      *************************************************
      ************************************************************* | *************************************


    • Initial Complaint

      Date:06/23/2025

      Type:Service or Repair Issues
      Status:
      AnsweredMore info

      Complaint statuses

      Resolved:
      The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
      Unresolved:
      The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
      Answered:
      The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
      Unanswered:
      The business failed to respond to the dispute.
      Unpursuable:
      BBB is unable to locate the business.
      June ******* A young man came to my door and said he could get my PG&E **** lowered. He did not tell me it was a third party company taking over my gas bill. He notified ****** was changing my gas company I never agreed. I notified Spark Energy Gas and they are supposed to cancel the transfer. I was up front with them that I wasn't told the truth.

      Business Response

      Date: 07/08/2025

      To Whom This May Concern:
      Response to BBB Complaint No. ******** *** *******
      This is Spark Energys (Spark or the Company) response to Better Business Bureau (BBB) Complaint Number ********.
      Upon receipt of the BBBs notice, Spark promptly investigated the concerns raised by *** *******. Our records indicate that on June 11, 2025, ****** ******** gas service account was enrolled with Spark through a door-to-door sales representative.
      We confirm that the enrollment was successfully rescinded and will not become active with Spark.
      The enrollment was completed using Electronic Third-Party Verification (ETPV), a secure process involving a series of contract confirmation questions sent via a unique link to the customers personal device. These questions must be reviewed and submitted by the customer to verify their understanding and acceptance of the service terms. Throughout the **** process, the customer or authorized individual is clearly informed of the switch to Spark and the applicable contract terms, with affirmative confirmation recorded. (Mobile Web TPV attached for reference.)
      Additionally,all Spark representatives are required to wear branded gear and carry an identification badge featuring the Companys logo while conducting door-to-door activities.
      We confirm that Mr. ******** account will not be switched to Spark. The customer will not incur any supply charges or penalties related to the canceled enrollment.
      To prevent any future solicitations, ******************** address and telephone number have been added to Sparks Do Not Solicit list.
      We appreciate the opportunity to address this matter and hope this provides clarity and reassurance. Should you have any additional questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

      Best regards,


      ****** Williams | Regulatory Specialist
      *************************************************
      ************************************************************** | *************************************
    • Initial Complaint

      Date:05/22/2025

      Type:Service or Repair Issues
      Status:
      AnsweredMore info

      Complaint statuses

      Resolved:
      The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
      Unresolved:
      The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
      Answered:
      The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
      Unanswered:
      The business failed to respond to the dispute.
      Unpursuable:
      BBB is unable to locate the business.
      On approximately 10/2/24 I cancelled my service with Spark Energy as I felt our electric bills were significantly higher than others in the area with much larger homes and more people in their household. 1) Upon switching, a day after the bill was due Spark has been calling me 3+ times daily filling up my voicemail box over and over causing issues and preventing highly important callers from leaving any kind of message. On multiple occasions I have directly told then to stop calling me as it is bordering on harassment, yet they continue to call again and again. At this point I will sending in written communication to stop calling and start keeping record of any calls subsequent of that communication as it is violating the ****** 2) After we switched electric companies we now pay 17.9 per KWh vs. 17.7 we were paying before, but our electric bills have dropped between $250 and $300 per month, but have not changed anything we were doing prior to switching over. It is not logical that our rates have increased but our bills have gone down approximately 35%+ compared to what we were paying Spark. Looking at my prior and current rates/bills since the change, it give the appearance that Spark Energy is find a way to price ***** customers. Based solely on this alone it is not reasonable for me to pay that final bill considering there is no way to determine how long Spark Energy has been over charging me for their Electricity Service (if you can call it a service). At this point, due to all the stress and issues they have caused I want nothing less than full credit on my final bill and that Spark Energy immediately ceases contacting me.

      Business Response

      Date: 06/04/2025

      To Whom It May Concern,

      Thank you for bringing Mr. ****** ***** concerns to our attention. This is Spark Energys ("Spark" or "the Company") response to BBB Complaint Number 23366088.

      Upon receipt of the complaint, we reviewed Mr. ***** concerns.Our records show that he last renewed his contract with Spark on 10/02/2022 via our website, enrolling in a 24-month fixed rate plan at $0.1199/kWh, effective 10/03/2022.

      To ensure Mr. ***** was aware of his upcoming contract expiration,Spark issued three Contract Expiration Notices:
      First notice: 07/09/2024
      Second notice: 08/07/2024
      Third notice: 08/30/2024

      Each notice stated that if no action was taken, the account would automatically transition to a month-to-month variable rate after 10/02/2024.

      Spark received a cancellation transaction from ***** on 09/30/2024 with an effective switch date of 10/02/2024. As a result, Mr. ************ was switched away from Spark on that date.

      Billing details for the last 6 months of service with Spark are as follows:
      07/03/2024: Invoice for service from 05/31/2024 to 07/01/2024 for ***** kWh totaling $680.85 (due on 07/19/2024)
      07/19/2024: Payment received for $680.85
      08/02/2024: Invoice for service from 07/01/2024 to 07/31/2024 for ***** kWh totaling $634.41 (due on 07/19/2024)
      08/19/2024: Payment received for $634.41
      09/03/2024: Invoice for service from 07/31/2024 to 08/29/2024 for ***** kWh totaling $679.40 (due 09/19/2024)
      09/19/2024: Payment received for $679.40
      10/02/2024: Invoice for 08/29/2024 to 09/30/2024 for ***** kWh totaling $644.00 (due 10/18/2024)
      10/04/2024: Final invoice issued for service from 09/30/2024 to 10/02/2024 for 163 kWh totaling $30.07. This invoice included the previous balance of $644.00, for a final total of $674.07 due by 10/21/2024.
      With respect to Mr. ***** concerns regarding billing,weve reviewed his electricity usage and attached a detailed usage report for reference. Mr. ***** usage consistently exceeded ***** kWh per month, between 05/31/2024 and the cancellation date.

      As of today, no payment has been received for the electricity consumed from 08/29/2024 to 10/02/2024. The phone calls referenced by Mr. ***** are standard collection attempts due to the outstanding balance.

      We confirm that all charges reflect the contracted rate and usage data reported by *****, Mr. ****** utility provider. Based on this review, the charges are accurate and valid.

      Should Mr. ***** wish to discuss payment options, he may contact our ********************** at **************, MondayThursday from 8:00 AM7:00 PM CST and Friday from 8:00 AM5:00 PM CST.

      Best regards,

      ***** Ramirez | Regulatory Specialist
      *************************************************
      ************************************************************* | *************************************


    • Initial Complaint

      Date:04/09/2025

      Type:Billing Issues
      Status:
      AnsweredMore info

      Complaint statuses

      Resolved:
      The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
      Unresolved:
      The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
      Answered:
      The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
      Unanswered:
      The business failed to respond to the dispute.
      Unpursuable:
      BBB is unable to locate the business.
      Spark Energy advertised a cheaper gas procurrment charges than PG&E. What they failed to mention was that PG&E does not charge procurrement charges, only delivery charges. Therefore, signing with Spark jsut added an additional fee to my power bill. It's false advertising. Now they want to charge me a $100 termination fee which, given the false information they provided to purposefully convolute of an already confusing bill, is an egregious overstep of the ethics that should exist between the consumer and supplier.

      Business Response

      Date: 05/02/2025

      To Whom This May Concern:
      Thank you for bringing ******* Mehews concerns to our attention. This is Spark Energys (Spark or the Company) response to BBB Complaint Number 23183403.
      To respond to the customers claim of false ********************************** denies this claim. By California laws,customers have a choice to purchase the supply portion of their natural gas services from either the local utility or alternate natural gas suppliers, such as Spark.  Regardless of who supplies the natural gas, the consumer bill includes separate charges for the utility delivery of the natural gas, for the natural gas used by the customer plus taxes and other related charges.  The customer enrolled with ********************** and was charged for the energy used at his home. If he had not enrolled with Spark (or with any other supplier), he would have received charges for the amount of energy he used from his local utility.  
      The supply charges to the customer are valid.  On January 13, 2025, the gas supply service was enrolled to Spark via a Door-to-Door representative associated with third-party vendor, ***********************. The account was enrolled onto a 12-month plan with a fixed rate of $1.099/therm along with a $6.95 *************** Fee and a $100 Early Termination Fee.
      The enrollment was completed via ETPV, which is a series of questions sent to the customer via link to their personal device which must be answered and submitted by the customer for verification of enrollment. As a general requirement, throughout the ****, the customer or an authorized person are made aware that they are enrolling with a supplier (Spark) along with the terms and conditions of the contract. Additionally, the **** confirms that the local utility provider will continue to read the meter, deliver the supply and bill for the delivery service in which an affirmative confirmation of understanding was provided. (Mobile Web TPV attached).
      On April 9, 2025, Mr. ***** contacted us to cancel his service with Spark. As such, Spark submitted a cancellation request transaction to PG&E which was accepted with the effective drop date of April 30, 2025.
      Based on the information provided, Spark deems the enrollment valid with no credits or adjustments warranted. However, as a courtesy, Spark will waive the $100 ETF. Lastly, the was terminated, effective as of April 30, 2025.
      Please let us know if you have additional questions or concerns. 
      Best regards,

      ***** ******* | Regulatory Specialist
      *************************************************
      ************************************************************* | *************************************
    • Initial Complaint

      Date:04/06/2025

      Type:Customer Service Issues
      Status:
      AnsweredMore info

      Complaint statuses

      Resolved:
      The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
      Unresolved:
      The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
      Answered:
      The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
      Unanswered:
      The business failed to respond to the dispute.
      Unpursuable:
      BBB is unable to locate the business.
      I have never signed up with Spark Energy Gas LLP and they have shown up in my **** **** without my knowledge. I know that this is an extra charge because I have dealt with ***** ****** ********* charges in the past with the same exact situation. Conveniently, these Spark Energy charges started after ***** ****** had stopped in my June and July 2024 Statements. As such, I have not checked my statements again because I mistakenly assumed that my bills had increased due to working from home. Last night, I was curious about my bills remaining so high because I had not worked from home for a while at this address. So I checked my statement and saw these charges from Spark Energy starting from August 2024. Upon my research, it appears that this is another scam similar to ***** ******. However, I have never interacted with Spark energy like I had mistakenly done in the past with Vista because I falsely assumed that they are legitimately from ****. I understand that I should have checked sooner but this was sneakily added to my account. Up until this March 2025, they had charged about $430+. Until it is resolved, I assume that this amount will continuously go up.

      Business Response

      Date: 04/14/2025

      To Whom This May Concern:

      This is Spark Energys (Spark or the Company) response to BBB Complaint Number 23168150.

      Thank you for bringing ******* ********** concerns regarding her enrollment to our attention.

      Upon receipt of the BBBs notice, Ms. ********** concerns were immediately investigated. During our review, we found that on August 11, 2023, with the same telephone number used to file this case; Ms. ********* authorized her gas service enrollment with Spark via Door-to-Door representative associated with ********************* The account was enrolled onto a 12-month plan with a fixed monthly fee of $54.99 along with a $100 Early Termination Fee. Our records show that the account became active with Spark on June 19, 2024.

      Please note, the enrollment was completed via ****, which is a series of questions sent to the customer via link to their personal device which must be answered and submitted by the customer for verification of enrollment. Please be informed that as a general requirement, throughout the ****, the customer or an authorized person are made aware of the switch to Spark and the terms of the contract in which an affirmative confirmation of understanding was provided. (Mobile Web TPV attached). 

      On April 7, 2025, because of Ms. ********** dispute, we submitted a cancellation transaction request to *** who accepted it and provided a termination date of April 18th. As of this date, Spark will no longer supply ****************** service.

      Per the attached ETPV completed, wed like to confirm that the enrollment was authorized using the same telephone number used to file the complaint, as such, Spark deems the enrollment valid with no credits or adjustments. 

      Lastly, wed like to confirm, the Company will not bill the $100 Early Termination Fee. 

      Best regards, 


      ****** ******** | Regulatory Specialist
      *************************************************
      ************************************************************** | *************************************

      Customer Answer

      Date: 04/16/2025

      Better Business Bureau:

      I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and have determined that this proposed action would not resolve my complaint.  

      Please provide a copy of my authorization or consent to gas enrollment which includes my signature with a date. I had never consented anything with Spark LLC but I had encountered the same situation with Vista Energy Company because I was unaware of the services they provided. The companys marketing team provided  misleading information about lowering my costs only to discover extra unnecessary changes. This has previously been taken care of. I was mislead by ***** employees to enroll which was the only door to door representative that I spoke with. So Im requesting for your team to provide additional documents to support my enrollment. Otherwise, I have never enrolled or heard about Spark Energy other than its similarities with my misleading encounter with Vista. Per your message, my account had became active on June 19, 2024. This is in the same period as I was seeking solutions with Vista. Spark Energy also began charging my account once Vista stopped its charges. 


      Regards,


       


      Business Response

      Date: 04/23/2025

      To Whom This May Concern:

      We appreciate the opportunity to further assist with Ms. ********** concerns. 

      As an initial matter, wed like to confirm that Spark Energy is in no way affiliated or associated with Vista Energy. Further, wed like to confirm that the telephone number used to file BBB Case No. ********, is the exact same telephone number used to complete the attached Mobile Web Third-Party Verification form which enrolled ************************** account with **********************. Enrollment Document Attached.

      Please note, the enrollment was completed via ETPV, which is a series of questions sent to the customer via link to their personal device which must be answered and submitted by the customer for verification of enrollment. Please be informed that as a general requirement, throughout the ****, the customer or an authorized person are made aware of the switch to Spark and the terms of the contract in which an affirmative confirmation of understanding was provided. (Mobile Web TPV attached). 

      Records show, the enrollment to Spark was completed on August 11, 2023; on August 14th, the Company submitted an enrollment request transaction to *** who accepted it and provided an effective start date of July 19, 2024. As of this date, ****************** supply service became active with Spark. 

      Upon receipt of this case, a cancellation request transaction was submitted to *** who accepted it and provided the service end date of April 18, 2025. As a courtesy, Spark waived the $100 Early Termination Fee associated with the enrollment. Spark is no longer supplying **************************. 

      Based upon our findings, Ms. ********** enrollment with Spark is valid along with the charges billed for Sparks gas supply service. 

      Wed like to confirm, Spark has properly managed ****************** supply service account. We kindly ask the BBB to deem this matter as resolved and respectfully ask to have this matter closed. 


      Best regards, 


      ****** ******** | Regulatory Specialist
      *************************************************
      ************************************************************** | *************************************

      Customer Answer

      Date: 05/10/2025

      Better Business Bureau:

      I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and have determined that this proposed action would not resolve my complaint.  

      Please understand that it is inconsistent on why my supposed registration was completed in Aug 2023 but my services did not start until 2024, a full year passing. As I said and due to misrepresentation, I mistakenly consented in this agreement back in 2023 for ************* only. I have never consented with Spark Energy. In the full year in between the time of the signed agreement and when my supposed services commencement with Spark, I had the same exact services with Vista Energy. If your company had no association with *****, please understand that I did not consent Spark Energy for services. I appreciate waiving the fees and Im only seeking to restore the money I was charged without my permission and looking for a refund. Thank you.

      Regards,


       

      Business Response

      Date: 05/16/2025

      Good afternoon,

      Thank you for the opportunity to address this matter.

      As verified through the attached electronic third-party verification, ************************** account was enrolled with Spark Energy on August 11, 2023, via telephone number ************. Notably, this is the same number Ms. ********* used to initiate BBB Complaint #********.

      Please be advised that *********** & Electric (PGE), the local utility provider, governs service start and end dates. On August 14, 2023, Spark submitted an enrollment request to ***, which responded on August 15, 2023, with a pending status. Subsequently, on July 23, 2024, Spark received confirmation from *** accepting the enrollment, assigning a service start date of July 19, 2024. Spark began supplying gas service to Ms. ********* as of that date.

      Upon receiving this complaint, Spark submitted a cancellation request to PGE. The request was accepted, and service was terminated effective April 18, 2025.

      Additionally, we would like to clarify that Vista and Spark are separate, unaffiliated energy suppliers. It appears Ms. ********* enrolled with both companies at different times, resulting in consecutive service periods.

      After thorough review, we confirm that Ms. ********** enrollment with Spark Energy was valid. Therefore, no credits or billing adjustments are warranted at this time.

      If further clarification is needed, we remain available to assist.

       

      Regards,

      ****** ********

      Regulatory Specialist

       

    • Initial Complaint

      Date:03/05/2025

      Type:Billing Issues
      Status:
      AnsweredMore info

      Complaint statuses

      Resolved:
      The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
      Unresolved:
      The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
      Answered:
      The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
      Unanswered:
      The business failed to respond to the dispute.
      Unpursuable:
      BBB is unable to locate the business.
      when this company call me they offer super cheap price for gas and Said yes but next day I cancel it but they never cancel

      Business Response

      Date: 03/24/2025

      To Whom It May Concern:

      This is Spark Energys (Spark or the Company) response to BBB Complaint Number 22995706.

      During our review of ***** Perezs concerns, we found the following:

      11/29/2022 - ***** ***** enrolled her gas service account with **********************.
      12/27/2022- gas account became active.
      1/3/2023 Ms. ***** called in to cancel service; instead of canceling, Ms. ***** agreed to update her gas service rate plan. 
      11/20/2024 Spark issued Contract Expiration Notice informing of the rate expiration date of 1/5/2025.
      1/6/2025 Because no action was taken; the rate transitioned onto month-to-month variable rate plan.
      11/27/2024 Ms. ***** requested to cancel her gas service account. ********************** submitted the cancellation transaction request to PGE.
      11/28/2024 *** accepted the cancellation request and provided the termination date of 12/24/2024.
      12/24/2024 Services terminated. Final invoice of $95.15 generated for the service dates of 11/22/2024-12/24/2024.
      2/3/2025 Spark received a $7.26 payment, balance $87.89.
      2/20/2025 Spark issued Final Notice for the past due balance of $87.89.
      3/5/2025 Spark received $93.46 payment.


      Wed like to confirm, ********************** account terminated with Spark on 11/24/2024. Our records show there is a credit balance of $9.69. This credit will be refunded to Ms. ***** in the form of a $10 Pre-paid **** card; within the next 4-6 weeks, the customer should anticipate receiving her refund via US Mail at the mailing address s of ***********************************. To ensure the card is not overlooked, it will be enclosed within an envelope with the return address of: *************** P.O. *****************************

      Based on our findings, Spark has responsibly managed ********************** account. 

      Best regards, 
       
       
      ****** ******** | Regulatory Specialist
      *************************************************
      Tel: ************ 
      ************************************************************** | *************************************
    • Initial Complaint

      Date:02/05/2025

      Type:Billing Issues
      Status:
      AnsweredMore info

      Complaint statuses

      Resolved:
      The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
      Unresolved:
      The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
      Answered:
      The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
      Unanswered:
      The business failed to respond to the dispute.
      Unpursuable:
      BBB is unable to locate the business.
      Complaint to the Better Business Bureau Dear BBB Representative,I am filing a formal complaint against Spark Energy for deceptive business practices and fraudulent misrepresentation. On December 11, 2024, a Spark Energy employee, **** ****** (Agent ID ********, approached me at my home falsely claiming that Spark Energy was a supplier for Consumers Energy and could lower my rates. He showed me a misleading website on his tablet to gain my trust and convinced me to sign forms.After realizing I had been misled, I called Spark Energy the same day (12/11/2024) to cancel. Their representatives assured me multiple times, both via phone and email, that my service was canceled and I would not be charged. However, I later received a $660.63 bill from Consumers Energy, which attributed the charges to Spark Energy, stating they had never received a cancellation request.Despite my repeated efforts to resolve this with both companies, Spark Energy continues to claim Consumers Energy failed to process the cancellation, while Consumers Energy states they never received a request. On February 3, 2025, a Spark Energy supervisor admitted they had to "resend" the cancellation request but failed to take ownership of the mistake.I am demanding:1. Immediate and permanent cancellation of my Spark Energy account (#********** retroactive to 12/11/2024.2. Removal of all Spark Energy charges from my bill 3. An investigation into Spark Energys deceptive sales tactics and business practices Spark Energys fraudulent and unethical actions have caused undue stress and financial burden. I request the BBB to take action to prevent further consumer harm.Sincerely,**** ****** Eastpointe, MI ***** ******************** **************

      Business Response

      Date: 02/14/2025

      To Whom It May Concern:

      This is Spark Energys (Spark or the Company) response to BBB Complaint Number ********.

      Upon receipt of the BBB notice, Spark immediately reviewed the details of Deja ******* concerns brought forth within Case No. ********. During our review we found that the gas account was enrolled with Spark on December 11, 2024, via a Door-to-Door representative associated with **********************. The gas account was enrolled onto a 12-month plan which included a fixed rate of $6.49/MCF along with a $50 Early Termination Fee (ETF). On the same day, Ms. ****** contacted the Company to cancel the gas service enrollment. However, *********************** account became active with the Company on December 24th.

      While Ms. ****** acknowledged that she enrolled, it is important to note that the enrollment was confirmed via an electronic third party verification (ETPV), which is a series of questions sent to the customer via link to their personal device that must be answered and submitted by the customer for verification of enrollment. Throughout this process, Ms. ****** was informed of the switch to Spark and the terms of the contract, all of which she was required to provide an affirmative confirmation that she read, understood and agreed to the terms of service, including that her account was being switched to Spark. (Mobile Web TPV attached)  
      Additionally, Sparks agents are trained and required to wear Spark branded gear along with a Spark ID badge and to provide accurate information to consumers, which is then confirmed during the verification process. As provided when the complaint was filed, Ms. ****** had a copy of the agents badge which identified him as representing Spark, suggesting that he agent properly identified himself, including sharing the badge with Ms. ************* Additionally, customers are enrolled using devices provided by the Company, there are no screens reflecting the utilitys website.  The agents are required to select the proper service area, which lists the name of the utilities.  This is the only avenue by which in-person sales are processed.  Based on the customers concerns, we have notified the representative of the customers claims and will issue a reminder to our sales team on proper solicitation efforts.

      Wed like to confirm, *********************** account terminated with the Company on January 24th and will not be billed the $50 ETF. To resolve this matter, all supply charges billed by Spark will be refunded to Ms. ****** via a check payment to the address on file. 

      On February 11, 2025, I reached out to Ms. ****** to confirm that her service has terminated with Spark and that all charges would be adjusted to *************** rate. Ms. ****** understood and will contact me directly with any questions or concerns regarding this matter. 

      Lastly, to avoid any future solicitations by Spark, we will add ******************** address and telephone onto the Companys Do Not Contact list. 


      Best regards, 
       
       
      ****** ******** | Regulatory Specialist
      *************************************************
      Tel: ************ 
      ************************************************************** | *************************************

      Customer Answer

      Date: 02/20/2025

      Better Business Bureau:

      I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and have determined that this proposed action would not resolve my complaint because none of the actions listed about sending me a check has taken place and therefore the complaint has not been resolved. I have a $620 utility balance from Spark that is due today 2/20/2025 and that is still oustanding that were established by the Spark Representative's deceptive, fraudulent, and scamming sales tactics. 

      Until I have received the check that Spark said that they will be sending me to pay the charges, and CMS excepts, processes, and removes the Spark Charges, this complaint is not resolved. Spark's response to my complaint does not resolve the issue but merely explained what they may do to resolve it. As of today, I have not seen any evidence that Spark has resolved my complaint and therfore my complaint has not been resolved.


      Regards,

      **** ******


       


      Business Response

      Date: 02/27/2025

      Good afternoon,
       
      On 2/20/2025, I reached out to *** ****** to inform that Spark would be refunding the charges the Company billed for her gas supply charges from 12/24/24 - 1/24/25. As cited in the copy of the *** invoice provided by *** ******, it shows charges billed by Spark in the amount of $287.51; this amount will be refunded by Spark. Within the next 7-10 business days, *** ****** should anticipate receiving her refund check via ****** Once the tracking information is available, we will gladly provide it. 
       
      *** ****** has been informed to reach out to *** if she has any further billing disputes aside from Sparks charge of $287.51.
       
      Regards,

      ****** ********

      Regulatory Specialist

      Customer Answer

      Date: 03/06/2025

      Better Business Bureau:

      I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and have determined that this proposed action would not resolve my complaint.  

      Sparks actions only resolved the billing issues and part of the fraud crime I experienced but does not address the fraudulent actions on their employees part or protect the community at large from this transpiring in the future. Spark uses explanations that make it sound as if there was no wrongdoing on their part. Spark has failed to take accountability by addressing the fraudulent crime and it's entirety that their employee committed in this situation. The complaint I have filed about Spark's corrupt business practices and fraudulent sales tactics will stand and remain.

      Regards,


       

      Business Response

      Date: 03/12/2025

      Good afternoon,
       
      The Company appreciates Ms. ******* additional response.  As an initial matter, Spark takes the customers concerns and its compliance very seriously. The sales interaction as described by Ms. ****** does not align with our agent training and Spark has zero tolerance for such behavior.  The behavior Ms. ****** described was handled in accordance to the Companys disciplinary policy and its third-party vendor agreement.
       
      Spark resolved Ms. ******* concerns regarding her energy supply service by cancelling the supply agreement and issued a refund for charges incurred from Spark during the period she received supply services from us.  Spark has addressed and resolved the concerns raised by Ms. ******* therefore, the Company considers this matter resolved and respectfully request that your agency close this matter.
       
      Regards,

      ****** ********

      Regulatory Specialist


    • Initial Complaint

      Date:11/30/2024

      Type:Customer Service Issues
      Status:
      AnsweredMore info

      Complaint statuses

      Resolved:
      The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
      Unresolved:
      The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
      Answered:
      The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
      Unanswered:
      The business failed to respond to the dispute.
      Unpursuable:
      BBB is unable to locate the business.
      I am a person who was added into my grandfather's PGE **** so I can help pay the Bill where we live for P.G.E. Over the last few years our bill has been significantly higher than any other year due to SPARK ENERGY having access to our P.G.E Bill. We have been getting charged more and more recently and the delivery charges were getting as well have been becoming higher because P.G.E delivers our electricity for spark energy.. My grandfather and I have been trying to remove spark Energy from our bill for over a year now without success. We have contacted them by telephone. We have gotten the confirmation that it would be cancelled on a couple differnt occasions. We have also got confirmation that they would send cancelation papers and they never did. We have been trying to drop them and discontinue service and they have illegally forced us to continue with their company. We want to cancel with them and want the better *************** to help us to do that. Our PGE account number is ************ Our PGE accounts address for service is ****************************************** Spark Energy ESP customer number is ************* have contacted P.G.E to remove them from our bill but P.G.E can't. Spark Energy has to be the one to do it but they are refusing and we have been trying over a year. Please help us.

      Business Response

      Date: 12/13/2024

      To Whom This May Concern:

      This is Spark Energys (Spark or the Company) response to BBB Complaint Number ********. Thank you for bringing ******* ********* concerns regarding her grandfather, ***** *********, gas service account. 

      Upon receipt of the BBB notice, the Company reviewed Ms. ********* concerns were immediately investigated. During our review, we found that on April 18, 2023, ***** ********* enrolled his gas service account with ********************** via third-party vendor, Prime Time Marketing. 

      On April 28, 2023, ****************** supply account became active onto the 6-month fixed flat rate of $49.99 per month which included a $100 Early Termination Fee. On August 30, 2023, the Company issued a Contract Expiration Notice notifying Mr. ********* of his upcoming fixed flat rate expiration date of October 17, 2023. This notice explained that if no action were taken before his contract expires, he would automatically be moved to a month-to-month variable plan until you sign up for another fixed-rate plan. Because no action was taken, on October 18, 2023, the customers rate plan transitioned onto a month-to-month variable rate plan. 

      Upon further review, we found the enrollment was completed via ****, which is a series of questions sent to the customer via link to their personal device which must be answered and submitted by the customer for verification of enrollment. As a general requirement, throughout the ****, the customer is made aware of the switch to ********************** and the terms of the contract in which the customer provided an affirmative confirmation of his understanding.

      Please be informed that Spark only provides gas supply services in the State of **********. Wed like to confirm that Spark did not ****************** for his electric supply services. In reviewing Mr. ********** account, the Company agrees Mr. ********* has been properly billed by Spark for his gas service consumption. 

      After a diligent review, our records show there has been no contact from the account holder or Ms. ******** requesting to terminate ****************** service account with **********************. However, upon receipt of this notice, we submitted a cancellation transaction request to *********** & Electric (PGE) who accepted and responded with a termination date of December 26, 2024. As of this date, Spark will no longer be responsible for supplying ****************** service.

      Based upon our findings, the Company has properly billed and managed the canceling of ****************** service account with **********************. 

      Please let us know if you have additional questions or concerns. 

      Best regards, 

       
      ****** ******** | Regulatory Specialist
      *************************************************
      Tel: ************ ************************************ | *************************************

    • Initial Complaint

      Date:11/11/2024

      Type:Billing Issues
      Status:
      AnsweredMore info

      Complaint statuses

      Resolved:
      The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
      Unresolved:
      The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
      Answered:
      The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
      Unanswered:
      The business failed to respond to the dispute.
      Unpursuable:
      BBB is unable to locate the business.
      11/11/24 I have been receiving constant collection call from Spark Energy stating that my current $1012.63 which is extremely excessive for a single mother and whos family is out of the house 8-10 hours per day due to work and school I am highly concerned and disappointed regarding this matter and I feel as though Im being over charged for electricity services

      Business Response

      Date: 11/20/2024

      To Whom This May Concern:

      This is Spark Energys (Spark or the Company) response to BBB Complaint Number 22542686.

      Thank you for bringing ******* ****** concerns to our attention.

      Upon receipt of the BBBs notice, the Company reviewed ******* ****** concerns. Our records show that Ms. ***** has been billed based upon her households consumption reported by CenterPoint Energy (CPE). 

      A further review of Ms. ****** account shows the following:

      On 8/18/2023 and 11/27/2023, the Company issued contract expiration notices informing Ms. ***** that her contracted fixed rate would expire on 4/11/2024.
      On 3/11/2024, a third notice was sent to Ms. ************ 3/19/2024, Spark generated an invoice for $238.73 which included the past due balance of $115.79 along with the current charges of $122.94 for usage of 767 kWh for the service dates of 2/15/2024 to 3/15/2024.
      On 3/21/2024, there was a payment received for $115.79.
      On 4/12/2024, because no action was taken by the contract expiration date, the fixed rate expired, and the rate defaulted onto a Month-to Month Variable rate plan. 
      On 4/18/2024, Spark generated an invoice for $315.62 which included the past due balance of $122.94 along with current charges of $192.68 for the usage of 1172 kwh and the service dates of 3/15/2024-4/16/2024. This same day, a payment was received for $122.94.
      On 5/17/2024, Spark generated an invoice for $511.51 which include the past due balance of $192.68, along with current charges of $318.83 for the usage of 1295 kWh and service dates of 4/16/2024-5/15/2024. This same day, a payment was received for $100.00.
      On 5/24/2024, a payment was received for $92.68.
      On 6/17/2024, a payment was received for $160.00.
      On 6/18/2024, Spark generated an invoice for $605.57 which included the past due balance of $158.83 along with the current charges of $446.74 for the usage of 1807 kWh and the service dates of 5/15/2024-6/14/2024.
      On 6/21/2024, payment was received for $158.83.
      On 7/18/2024, Spark generated an invoice for $1,047.75 which included the past due balance of $446.74 along with the current charges of $601.01 for the usage of 1948 kWh and the service dates of 6/14/2024-7/16/2024.
      On 7/26/2024, payment was received for $223.48. Ms. ***** agreed to enter a 5 - month Deferred Payment plan for her outstanding balance of $824.27 which would allow her to make monthly installment payments along with each current billing cycle to be paid by the invoice due date. 
      On 8/16/2024, Spark generated an invoice for $684.79. This included the customers DPP installment amount of $164.27 along with the current charges for the usage of 1790 kWh for the service dates of 7/16/2024-8/14/2024.
      On 9/4/2024, Ms. ***** agreed to renew her electric service rate onto the 12-month fixed rate of ***** cents per kWh. In addition, she made a payment for $350.00.
      On 9/6/2024, Spark generated a Disconnect Notice for $994.79 with the due date of 9/16/2024.
      On 9/12/2024, payment was received for $300.00.
      On 9/13/2024, Ms. ***** entered into a new agreement for a 6-month Deferred Payment plan for the outstanding balance of $694.79.
      On 9/17/2024, Spark generated an invoice for $463.89 which included a past due balance of $34.79 and the current amount due of $429.10 for the service dates of 8/14/2024-9/13/2024.
      On 10/7/2024, Spark generated a Disconnect Notice for $463.89 with the due date of 10/17/2024.
      On 10/16/2024, Spark generated an invoice for $896.63 which included the past due amount of $463.89 along with the current balance due of $432.74.
      On 10/17/2024, payment was received for $100.00.
      On 10/24/2024, payment was received for $100.00.
      On 10/25/2024, payment was received for $264.00.
      On 11/4/2024, Spark generated a Disconnect Notice for $1, 012.63 with the due date of 11/14/2024.
      On 11/12/2024, payment was received for $200.00.
      On 11/14/2024, Spark generated an invoice for $1,035.95 which included the past due balance of $232.63 along with the current charges of $803.31 for the service dates of 10/14/2024-11/12/2024.
      -This same day, Ms. ***** contacted Spark to establish a payment extension until 11/22/2024.

      Wed like to confirm that Spark has properly billed Ms. ***** each month for her electric service usage. Our records show that Ms. ***** has renewed her electric service rate and is currently being billed at her contracted 12-month fixed rate plan. 

      Please note that the Company has willingly offered Ms. ***** a payment arrangement on 7/26/2024 and again on 9/13/2024 to assist the customer with making payments to avoid service interruption. Because Disconnection Notices were sent, the customers payment arrangement defaulted, and all past due charges and installment amounts became due. At this time, there has been an extension granted for Ms. ***** until 11/22/2024; if any additional assistance is needed, please have the customer reach out to a member of our ************* team.

      Based upon our findings, the customers charges are valid. 


      Kind regards, 

       
      ****** ******** | Regulatory Specialist
      ****************************************************************************
      Tel: ************ 
      ************************************************************** | *************************************

    • Initial Complaint

      Date:10/15/2024

      Type:Billing Issues
      Status:
      AnsweredMore info

      Complaint statuses

      Resolved:
      The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
      Unresolved:
      The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
      Answered:
      The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
      Unanswered:
      The business failed to respond to the dispute.
      Unpursuable:
      BBB is unable to locate the business.
      A broker had signed my business up for Spark Energy without my knowledge. The broker wither forged my name and signed me up against my approval. They are charging me a monthly service fee on my gas bill on top of TECO energy. They won't let me cancel and keep telling me a broker signed me up.

      Business Response

      Date: 10/29/2024

      To Whom This May Concern:

      This is Spark Energys (Spark or the Company) response to BBB Complaint Number 22426911.

      Thank you for bringing ***** ******* concerns regarding ******************************** service account to our attention.

      Upon receipt of the BBB notice, the Company reviewed Jasons Solanos concerns were immediately investigated. We found that on March 13, 2024, using the same email address used to file this case, Mr. ****** authorized to enroll the gas service account ******************************** with Spark Energy. As evidenced by attached *********** Sales Agreement, Mr. ****** agreed that the Company would service the address of **************************************** for an initial term of one (1) year. Additionally, the signed agreement acknowledges that Mr. ****** was made aware of the switch to Spark and the terms of the contract in which the customer provided an affirmative confirmation of his understanding.

      On July 29th, the gas service account became active with Spark. As of this date the Company has properly billed ******************************** in accordance with the *********** Sales Agreement electronically signed on March 13, 2024, by ***** ******.

      Based upon our findings, *********************** enrollment with Spark is valid. 

      Please let us know if you have additional questions or concerns. 

      Best regards, 

      ****** ******** | Regulatory Specialist
      *************************************************
      Tel: ************ 
      ************************************************************** | *************************************

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