Chris Wiehl

UCM's job is to save clients money on their utility bills — ensuring that they’re not paying more than they should. Utility rates and regulations are complex, which may be why there are so many billing errors. I uncover those errors and then work to remedy the mistakes. I’m most proud of what we did for the Cotton Ginning, Almond Hulling and Rice Hulling industries in Northern California. For decades, PG&E viewed these industries as “non-agriculture products,” and thus they weren’t eligible for PG&E “AG” rates. These industries were billed on PG&E Commercial Rates, which happen to be the highest rates. UCM filed complaints at the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) on behalf of our clients. We were able to convince the CPUC that the products produced by these industries were indeed Agricultural and eligible for PG&E “AG” rates. This resulted in a 25% to 30% discount on our clients’ electricity bills going forward, and they received a 3-year refund. Our clients saved millions of dollars AND PG&E changed their rules and regulations regarding “agricultural products.” Over the past 24 years, I’ve also developed a unique knowledge of the inner workings of public agencies. I’m able to work with multiple departments (such as Finance and Public Works), allowing them to continue daily operations while I coordinate the resolution of utility issues. I’ve been working in the utility industry since 1995, and I credit my continued success to my persistence, honesty, and professionalism. I genuinely like meeting people and helping with their utility/energy needs, and, of course, I like saving my clients lots of money! Let’s connect and see if I can help YOU, too! I’m a husband and father of three. I’m a sports fan, especially of UCLA teams. I was a member of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central California from 2006-2011 and also served as board president. In 2012, I took my family to live for a year in France; we like to travel.