Press Release

PUC Initiates Chapter 57 Rulemaking Proceeding Related to Maintaining Electric Reliability in PA

Published on 7/17/2008

Filed under: Electric

HARRISBURG - The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today approved an Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking initiating a Chapter 57 rulemaking proceeding. 

The Commission voted 4-0 to initiate a rulemaking proceeding considering the establishment of inspection, maintenance, repair and replacement standards regarding neutral connections under Chapter 57 of the Pennsylvania Code.  The Advanced Notice solicits comments from electric distribution companies (EDCs) and other parties of interest.  Comments may be filed by any interested person or entity and each comment should clearly indicate the reason for the proposed change(s) and specific proposed language for the regulation(s).  Interested parties are given 60 days from the date of publication of the Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in the Pennsylvania Bulletin to file comments and 90 days from the date of publication to submit reply comments. 

On May 22, 2008, the Commission entered a Final Rulemaking Order establishing inspection, maintenance, repair and replacement standards for EDCs.  The Final Rulemaking Order improved the Commission’s ability to monitor EDC service reliability and safety.  At the May 22, 2008, Public Meeting, the Commission approved a Motion  from Commissioner Tyrone J. Christy to consider additional standards for the inspection, maintenance and repair of neutral connections due to recent customer experiences and complaints.

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-2008-2044821

Contact:

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