Press Release

PUC Emphasizes Support to PA Utilities, Employers Seeking Federal Stimulus Money

Published on 3/12/2009

Filed under: Electric Gas Water and Wastewater Telecommunications Transportation and Safety

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today expressed its support for the state’s utilities and employers that are seeking federal stimulus money to benefit the state’s utility consumers and improve the infrastructure.

“We also are interested in programs that could benefit the state’s utility customers that fall outside of our direct purview but are consistent with our overall mission,” said Vice Chairman Tyrone J. Christy and Commissioner Wayne E. Gardner in a joint motion. “Programs such as weatherization, smart grid applications, advanced battery technologies, railroad security and infrastructure are among those that could help Pennsylvania utility consumers. We stand at the ready to offer reinforcement to Pennsylvania utilities and stakeholders through activities such as writing letters of support for those seeking funds that will have a positive affect on improving our utility infrastructure.”

The Commission voted unanimously to adopt the motion that formalized the PUC’s support for those seeking money under the federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. The motion highlighted the Commission’s commitment to programs designed to benefit utility consumers and the state’s infrastructure. Utilities and stakeholders are encouraged to seek PUC assistance, if needed, in pressing the case in Washington, D.C. for that money.

A Secretarial Letter emphasizing that support will be served on all PUC jurisdictional utilities and published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.

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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  717-787-5722