Press Release

PUC Introduces Interactive Website for Impact Fee Information

Published on 4/3/2013

Filed under: Gas

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today introduced an interactive website that allows users to better examine information related to the collection and distribution of the state’s unconventional gas well Impact Fee.

“In administering the Impact Fee, the PUC has been unwavering in our efforts to be transparent with the implementation of the law,” said PUC Chairman Robert F. Powelson. “This website takes that to the next level by providing an interactive, searchable resource where residents, local officials or anyone interested in the Impact Fee can view what money was collected and distributed as well as the calculations behind those numbers.”

 Users can go directly to the website from the Act 13 page on the PUC’s website (www.puc.pa.gov). The website includes graphical data analysis including the top paying producers, well count breakdowns and top collecting counties and local governments.

The Impact Fee producer payments for 2012 were due to the PUC April 1, 2013. Additional information on the amount of money expected for 2012 as well as the amount of money collected to date can be found on the website. Payments for some wells are still being challenged by some producers. As per the law, disputed wells are not reflected in the current data available. Any additional payments will be reflected as they are received before calculations are made to disburse the funds.

Users also can search statistics such as money paid by producers or money dispersed to state, county or local government. The information also breaks down the distribution calculations outlined in the law in areas such as eligible wells per county/ municipality and distributions to municipalities and counties with qualifying wells and to municipalities that are located within a county with qualifying wells and are contiguous to a municipality with wells or within five miles of a municipality with wells (based on population and highway miles calculations).

Distributions of the Impact Fee by the PUC are due to county and municipal governments by July 1, 2013. County and municipal government information on how the 2011 Impact Fee monies were spent are due to the PUC by April 15, 2013.

On Feb. 14, 2012, Governor Corbett signed into law Act 13 of 2012, the Unconventional Gas Well Impact Fee Act, which amended Title 58 (Oil and Gas) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes.  The PUC is responsible for implementing the provisions contained in Chapters 23 and 33 of the Act. Chapter 23 provides for the imposition, collection and distribution of an unconventional gas well fee (also called a drilling impact fee). Chapter 33 governs local ordinances that impose conditions, requirements or limitations on oil or gas operations. The PUC has created a page on its website for Act 13 information.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner. For recent news releases, video and audio of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.pa.gov.

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