Press Release

PUC Chairman, Commissioner Encourage Electric Utilities to Participate in Federal ‘Green Button’ Initiative

Published on 4/12/2012

Filed under: Electric

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) Chairman Robert F. Powelson and Commissioner Pamela A. Witmer today urged Pennsylvania’s electric utilities to participate in the federal “Green Button” initiative.

“Essentially, this initiative provides for the presentation of electric utility customer usage information in a standardized format by all participating utilities, with the goal of making it easier for application designers to create innovative programs to allow consumers to take greater control of their electric usage,” said Chairman Powelson and Commissioner Witmer in a statement. “The Green Button is an example of using technology to empower consumers.”

Established on Jan. 18, 2012, the Green Button initiative standardizes the presentation of electric usage data for customers and allows customers to download their own detailed energy usage information with a simple click of a button. Green Button-enabled web and smartphone applications promise to help consumers choose the most economical rate plan for their usage patterns; provide customized energy efficiency tips; provide easy-to-use tools to size and finance rooftop solar panels; and deliver virtual energy audit software that cuts costs for building owners and allows retrofits to get started sooner.

The initiative has received support from electric and technology companies throughout the United States. In Pennsylvania, PECO Energy Co. and PPL Electric Utilities have committed to participating in the program.

“We strongly encourage Pennsylvania’s remaining electric utilities to follow suit and join PECO and PPL in taking part in this program,” Chairman Powelson and Commissioner Witmer said in the statement.

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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