Press Release

PUC Begins Process to Update Regulations on Residential Utility Service Standards

Published on 11/30/2006

Filed under: Electric Gas Water and Wastewater

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today initiated the process to update its regulations dealing with residential utility service standards in order to make it consistent with legislative changes regarding how utilities address delinquent residential accounts.

            “Central to this rulemaking process is the Commission’s continuing obligation to protect the health and safety of utility consumers throughout the state,” said Commission Chairman Wendell F. Holland. “Ensuring a fair and equitable working relationship between consumers and the utilities will be the primary focus as we engage consumers, their advocates and utility companies in the discussion as the Commission works to update our regulations.”

            The Commission voted 4-0 to begin the process to revise its regulations at 52 Pa Code Chapter 56, bringing them in line with Act 201 of 2004, also known as Chapter 14. Commissioner Kim Pizzingrilli issued a statement. Portions of Chapter 14 supersede certain Chapter 56 regulations. The Commission also will use the opportunity to address other issues with Chapter 56 including updates needed due to technological advances including electronic billing and payments, e-mail and the Internet.

           Chapter 14 seeks to eliminate opportunities for customers capable of paying their utility bills to avoid payment, and to provide utilities with the means to reduce their uncollectible accounts.  The law changed the way regulated electric, water and major natural gas utilities handle cash deposits; reconnection of service; termination of service; payment arrangements; and the filing of termination complaints by residential customers. 

           Chapter 56 established and enforced uniform, fair and equitable residential utility service standards governing eligibility criteria, credit and deposit practices, and account billing, termination and customer complaint procedures.

           The notice of advanced rulemaking will be published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin. Interested parties will then have 60 days to submit written comments – an original and 15 copies to:

           Secretary, PA Public Utility Commission

           P.O. Box 3265

           Harrisburg, PA 17105-3265

           Courtesy copies should be provided to the PUC’s Bureau of Consumer Services and Law Bureau.

          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 Web site at www.puc.state.pa.us.

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Docket No. L-00060182

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• Press Secretary
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