Press Release

PUC Updates Technical Reference Manual Used to Assess Energy Savings Attributable to Energy Efficiency, Demand Side Response Measures

Published on 8/29/2013

Filed under: Electric

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today tentatively approved an updated Technical Reference Manual (TRM), which is used to assess energy savings attributable to energy efficiency and demand response measures for the implementation of the state’s Alternative Energy Portfolio Standards of Act 213 (AEPS) and the energy efficiency and conservation provisions of Act 129 of 2008.

The Commission voted 5-0 to tentatively approve the updated TRM.

Initially established in March 2005, the TRM is updated annually in order to keep pace and remain relevant and useful as experience and technology related to energy efficiency increases.

AEPS specifically required the Commission to develop standards for tracking and verifying savings from energy efficiency, load management and demand-side management measures.  Generally, AEPS requires that a certain percentage of all electric energy sold to retail customers be derived from alternative energy sources such as solar, wind, hydropower, geothermal, biomass, and demand side management resources. The law applies to both electric distribution companies (EDCs) and electric generation suppliers (EGSs), which must demonstrate their compliance on an annual basis.  

Act 129 expanded the PUC’s oversight responsibilities and imposed new energy efficiency and conservation requirements on EDCs with at least 100,000 customers, with the overall goal of reducing energy consumption and/or demand.

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, video and audio of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.pa.gov.

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.

Docket Nos. M-2012-2313373 and M-00051865

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