Press Release

PUC Approves Clean Power Markets as Administrator of the Alternative Energy Credits Program

Published on 6/3/2010

Filed under: Electric

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today approved Clean Power Markets (CPM) as the administrator of alternative energy credits (AECs), assisting the Commission in the implementation of the Alternative Energy Portfolio Standards Act (AEPS Act) of 2004.

The Commission voted 3-1 to approve the administrator.  Vice Chairman Tyrone J. Christy issued a dissenting statement, and Commissioner Wayne E. Gardner issued a statement.

Among the services CPM will be performing is the verification of electric distribution company and electric generation supplier compliance with the minimum portfolio requirements of the AEPS Act; the calculation of Tier I requirements on a quarterly basis; the review of applications for alternative energy system status; and the response to inquiries about alternative energy credits.

The Commission sought the services of a credits administrator beginning in June 2010 until Dec. 31, 2013, with the option for two one-year contract extensions.

An AEC is created each time a qualified alternative energy facility produces 1,000 kWh of electricity. The AEC is then sold or traded separately from the power. This makes it easier for individuals and businesses to finance and invest in alternative energy.

The AEPS Act of 2004 required that a certain percentage of all electric energy sold to retail customers within the Commonwealth be derived from alternative energy sources.  By 2021, electric distribution companies (EDCs) and electric generation suppliers (EGSs) must supply 18 percent of electricity using alternative energy resources, which were divided into two tiers.  The percentage of Tier I, Tier II and solar photovoltaic resources gradually increases over this period. 

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 website at www.puc.state.pa.us.

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