Press Release

PUC Seeks to Reinstate Low Income Pilot Program in Pike County

Published on 3/16/2006

Filed under: Electric

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today took the first step toward reinstituting the Low Income Pilot Program at Pike County Light and Power by seeking comments from interested parties.

The Commission unanimously voted to seek comments in response to a directive that Pike County Light and Power Co. immediately reinstitute its Low Income Pilot Program.

“A growing number of Pike customers have applied for Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program benefits and have requested payment arrangements from the company and this Commission,” said Commissioner Bill Shane in a joint motion with Commission Chairman Wendell F. Holland to seek comments to the Commission’s proposal. “In light of unprecedented increases in energy costs that Pike customers are already facing, this Commission is doing everything in its power to provide truly needy customers with assistance in paying their heating bills.”

“As this Commission continues with its inquiry into the dramatic price increase in Pike County, we are looking for options to help our neighbors in need keep the lights on,” Chairman Holland. “It’s important that we gather input on reinstating a program that is dedicated to helping those who need it most.”

On July 23, 1998, the Commission approved the company’s expanded universal service programs to include $7,500 annually to the Low Income Pilot Program, which would be used for arrearage forgiveness and energy conservations measures for qualifying consumers. On June 1, 2004, the Commission approved a company request to discontinue the program due to low response rates, a low number of consumers applying for the LIHEAP and a low number of consumers seeking payment arrangements.

The Commission is continuing with its fact-finding inquiry into the competitive electric market in Pike County and also is looking into attracting more and lower-cost choices for electric customers and the way power is purchased as well as the short and long-term electric generation supply outlook for the region. A report on the inquiry, which will be prepared by the Commission’s Law Bureau, will be issued to the Commission by the end of March.

Specific instructions on how to submit comments as well as the deadlines for submission will be available as part of the Commission’s entered order. Comments and replies will be posted on the Commission’s website at www.puc.state.pa.us. 

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission ensures safe, reliable and reasonably priced electric, natural gas, water, telephone and transportation service for Pennsylvania consumers, by regulating public utilities and by serving as responsible stewards of competition. For recent news releases, or more information about the PUC, visit our Internet homepage at www.puc.state.pa.us.

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Docket No:       M-00041793

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