Press Release

Electric Utilities and Electric Grid Managers Brief PUC on Reliability for Summer

Published on 5/30/2007

Filed under: Electric

HARRISBURG – The Energy Association of Pennsylvania, the Electric Power Generation Association, PJM Interconnection and the Midwest Independent System Operator (MISO) today advised the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) that they are expecting normal demands for electricity during the summer months while maintaining enough power for emergencies.

The presenters discussed forecasted load and capacity; vegetation management; inspection practices; environmental considerations; and the plant additions and retirements.

PJM, based in Pennsylvania, is the electricity grid operator for 13 states and the District of Columbia. PJM predicts that customers will drive the net peak demand this summer to 136,961 megawatts, compared to the all-time PJM peak of 144,644 megawatts on Aug. 2, 2006. PJM expects to have a total reserve margin, the extra power on hand to meet unanticipated demand, of 21.9 percent.

The Energy Association of Pennsylvania (EAP) member companies serve over 8 million electric and natural gas customers in the Commonwealth. EAP reported that Pennsylvania electric distribution companies are working to enhance reliability by increasing the availability of demand side response programs; by working with community organizations and colleges to address an aging workforce and attract new employees; by employing new technology; and by continuing their vegetation maintenance practices.

You can view the presentations by selecting the links below:

      Midwest Independent System Operator Presentation

      PJM Interconnection Presentation

      Energy Association of Pennsylvania Presentation

      Electric Power Generation Association Presentation

The Legislative Budget and Finance Committee recently recognized the PUC for its “significant regulatory changes” to maintain electric reliability.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities to ensure safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protect the public interest; educate consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; further economic development; and foster new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.         

For recent news releases, audio of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our Web site at www.puc.state.pa.us.

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