Press Release

PUC Issues for Comment Next Steps for Future Energy Efficiency, Conservation Programs; Announces Act 129 Stakeholder Meeting

Published on 5/10/2012

Filed under: Electric

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today issued for comment a Tentative Implementation Order on the future of energy efficiency and conservation (EE&C) programs established under Act 129 of 2008.

The Commission voted 5-0 to approve the Tentative Implementation Order that addresses issues related to the design and implementation of the next phase of the EE&C program.  PUC Commissioner Wayne E. Gardner partially dissented and issued a statement.  Commissioner Gardner also issued another statement.

“I firmly believe that the cheapest, most efficient kilowatt hour is the one you never have to use,” said PUC Commissioner Pamela Witmer in a statement.  “These programs, when cost-effectively run, provide numerous positive benefits to all customers.”

The Commission will again hold an Act 129 stakeholders meeting on Tuesday, June 5, 2012, at 1 p.m. in Hearing Room 1 of the Commonwealth Keystone Building, 400 North Street, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, 17120.  The purpose of the meeting is to provide stakeholders with the opportunity for a question and answer session with the Statewide Evaluator related to the baseline studies and the Potential Study discussed in the Tentative Implementation Order.

The current EE&C plans are valid through May 2013, at which time the law directs the PUC to re-evaluate the costs and benefits to determine if the EE&C programs should continue. By initiating this planning process well in advance of 2013, the Commission intended to facilitate a smooth transition to minimize any possible program lapses if the decision is made to move into the second phase of the program. 

The Tentative Implementation Order solicits comments on:

• The proposed timeline for implementing Phase 2;
• The length of a potential Phase 2;
• Inclusion of a peak demand program;
• Aligning electric distribution company targets and funding using dollars per MWh of expected reductions;
• Inclusion of a reduction carve-out for the government, educational and non-profit sector
• Inclusion of a low-income sector reduction carve-out;
• Program design issues;
• Other transition issues and
• Program cost recovery issues

On March 1, 2012, the Commission issued a Secretarial Letter seeking comments.  Chairman Powelson issued a statement. In addition, the Commission held an Act 129 Stakeholder meeting on March 16, 2012, to provide interested parties an opportunity to identify additional issues and concerns regarding the design of any future EE&C Program and to address any questions regarding the topics and issues presented in the Secretarial Letter.

On Oct. 15, 2008, Act 129 of 2008 became law and included implementation of EE&C programs that would produce usage reductions to meet legislatively-mandated targets through May 31, 2013.  Act 129 also addressed issues such as electric utility and default service provider responsibilities; conservation service providers; smart meter technology; time-of-use rates; real-time pricing plans; default service procurement; market misconduct; alternative energy sources; and cost recovery. 

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 Nos. M-2012-2289411; M-2008-2069887

Contact:

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