Press Release

HYDERABAD, Andhra Pradesh, India -- The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today formalized a regulatory partnership with the Andhra Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission (APERC).

Leading a legal and technical team from the PUC as part of a nine-day mission to India, Commissioner Aaron Wilson Jr. joined APERC Chairman G.P. Rao in signing a Memorandum of Understanding between the Pennsylvania and Andhra Pradesh commissions. The Memorandum makes official the two-year United States Energy Association (USEA) exchange program between APERC and the PUC -- which focuses on helping the Andhra Pradesh power sector to become viable while protecting the interests of consumers. Through the partnership, the PUC gains valuable insight into the methods and standards of other restructuring models.

"We are proud to represent Pennsylvania to forge this partnership with Chairman Rao and our friends at APERC," Commissioner Wilson said. "As an educator with many years of experience, I have enjoyed the shared learning experience with our friends and regulatory colleagues in India. The PUC is grateful for the opportunity to demonstrate the many ways we successfully operate and regulate, and to share our vision for electric and natural gas competition. What began with a meeting between countries has become a lasting partnership between friends.

"We thank Chairman Rao for his vision and hospitality, and the U.S. Energy Association for facilitating this exchange."