Press Release

PUC Seeks Comments on Revisions to Act 129 Total Resource Cost Test

Published on 5/24/2012

Filed under: Electric

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today issued for comment revisions to the total resource cost (TRC) test to analyze the costs and benefits of energy efficiency and conservation (EE&C) plans submitted by electric distribution companies (EDCs).  Act 129 of 2008 directs the Commission to use a TRC test to analyze the costs and benefits of the EDCs’ plans

The Commission voted 5-0 to issue changes to the TRC test for comment.  The proposed TRC test will be used in the event a Phase II of EE&C plans is required of the EDCs.

Act 129 of 2008 required electric distribution companies (EDCs) with more than 100,000 customers to file, by July 1, 2009, an energy efficiency and conservation (EE&C) plan to reduce electric consumption by at least one percent of the EDC’s expected load for the period from June 1, 2009, through May 31, 2010, adjusted for weather and extraordinary loads.  This 1 percent reduction was to be accomplished by May 31, 2011.  By May 31, 2013, the EDC is required to reduce its total consumption by a minimum of 3 percent, as well as its peak demand by a minimum of 4.5 percent.

The current EE&C plans are valid through May 31, 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. On May 10, 2012, the Commission tentatively approved a second phase of Act 129 EE&C plans.

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.

Docket No. M-2012-2300653

Contact:

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