Press Release

PUC to Hold En Banc Hearing on Retail Markets on June 8

Published on 6/7/2011

Filed under: Electric

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) will hold an en banc hearing to examine the state’s competitive electricity retail market at 1 p.m. tomorrow June 8, 2011, in Hearing Room 1 of the Commonwealth Keystone Building, 400 North St., Harrisburg, PA. The updated agenda is available on the PUC website.

“One of the great challenges for regulators is keeping up with the industries and markets they regulate,” said Chairman Robert F. Powelson.  “Our goal during this statewide investigation is to make recommendations for improvements to ensure a properly functioning and workable competitive retail electricity market exists in the state.”

"This statewide investigation gives the Commission an opportunity to assess the status of the market and to make the necessary adjustments for a more robust electricity shopping experience for Pennsylvania consumers," added Vice Chairman John F. Coleman. “This investigation will detail how to best address and resolve the issues identified.”

On April 28, the Commission officially launched the investigation into the state’s competitive electricity retail market.  The Commission will conduct the investigation in two phases.  The first phase is designed to assess the status of the current retail market and explore what changes need to be made to allow customers to best realize the benefits of competition. 

At the conclusion of the first phase the Commission will initiate the second phase to examine and address how best to resolve the issues raised and implement the prudent changes identified based upon its review of the comments received.

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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Docket Number I-2011-2237952

Contact:

• Denise McCracken
  Senior Communications Specialist
  717-787-5722
  demccracken@pa.gov