Press Release

PUC Approves Modifications to Conservation Service Provider Registration Process and Application as Part of Act 129 Phase II

Published on 5/23/2013

Filed under: Electric

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC or Commission) today approved revisions to the conservation service provider (CSP) registration process and application as a way to expedite the process and reduce administrative burdens.

The Commission voted 5-0 to adopt the proposed changes to the revised CSP application, the newly created CSP templates, the two modifications to the minimum requirements, the elimination of the Tax Certification Statement and the requirement for a certificate of current liability insurance.   

Act 129 of 2008 required each electric distribution company (EDC) to submit an energy efficiency and conservation (EE&C) plan that would produce usage reductions to meet legislatively-mandated targets through May 31, 2013. Each plan must include a contract with one or more CSP to implement the plan or a portion of the plan approved by the Commission.  The Act defines a “conservation service provider” as “an entity that provides information and technical assistance on measures to enable a person to increase energy efficiency or reduce energy consumption and that has no direct or indirect ownership, partnership or affiliated interest with an EDC.” 

On Aug. 2, 2012, the Commission adopted a Final Implementation Order on the future of EE&C programs established under Act 129.  As part of the adoption of this Order, the Commission adopted a three-year Phase II Act 129 EE&C Program that will operate from June 1, 2013, through May 31, 2016.  Act 129 also addresses issues such as electric utility and default service provider responsibilities; 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; 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 and video of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.pa.gov. Follow the PUC on Twitter – @PA_PUC for all things utility.  “Like” PAPowerSwitch on Facebook for easy access to information on electric shopping.

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Docket Number M-2008-2074154

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• Press Secretary
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