Press Release

PUC to Initiate Rulemaking to Review Natural Gas Supplier Licensing Requirements

Published on 10/14/2011

Filed under: Gas

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today initiated a rulemaking to examine the regulations regarding natural gas supplier (NGS) licensing requirements.

“Due to the  non-compulsory nature of licensing such entities and the amount of direct interaction these entities have with retail customers, combined with the fact that the licensed marketing services consultants and/or nontraditional marketers may gain a competitive edge or perceived higher  level of credibility over other unlicensed entities providing the same types of services, I believe that now is the time to conduct a review of the Commission’s regulations outlining the licensing requirements for natural gas suppliers,” said Commissioner Pamela A. Witmer in a motion.

The Commission voted 4-0 to approve the motion which begins the rulemaking process to review the NGS licensing requirements and existing exemptions for marketing services consultants and nontraditional marketers at 52 Pa. Code Sections 62.101-102. Commission Vice Chairman John F. Coleman Jr. issued a statement concurring in result only.

The current Commission regulations generally require all NGSs to obtain a license from the PUC in order to offer service. “Marketing service consultants” and “nontraditional marketers” have been exempted from these requirements. Some marketing service consultants and nontraditional marketers still apply for licenses, despite the fact that they are not required to do so. To date, the Commission’s practice has been to issue licenses to such entities if they meet the financial and technical requirements to obtain a license.

The Commission will issue a proposed rulemaking for comment within 90 days of the entry of the Commission order.

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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