Press Release

PUC OKs Duquesne Light Measure to Restore Power to Some Low-Income Consumers

Published on 12/15/2005

Filed under: Electric

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today approved a waiver of reconnection fees for some Duquesne Light Company customers, which will provide low-income consumers with the means to restore power to their homes.

“Accruing the necessary money to reconnect utility service is a daunting task for many low-income families who are already struggling to balance their ever-tightening budgets,” said Commission Chairman Wendell F. Holland. “With this plan, Duquesne Light is showing a willingness to think creatively and voluntarily provide many low-income consumers with the tools they need to restore service at a time of record low temperatures that translate into record high utility bills.”

The Commission voted 5-0 to allow the company to temporarily wave its reconnection fees for those customers who sign up for its “Stay Warm Program” for this winter. Winter is defined as Dec. 1, 2005 to March 31, 2006. The Commission also waived a 60-day notice period typically required for these types of changes.

The Commission’s action and the program proposed by the company both are in line with the Governor’s Stay Warm initiative. In announcing his plan in October, Gov. Edward G. Rendell asked utilities to voluntarily implement measures to assist residential customers, particularly low-income customers, in coping with the anticipated high energy prices for this winter.

About 13,000 Duquesne customers are eligible for its Stay Warm Program. The company estimates the program will cost between $1.5 and $2.5 million, according to the order. The company is examining options to recover some of that money in future base rate cases, but did not seek PUC approval for recovery at this time.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission ensures safe, reliable and reasonably priced electric, natural gas, water, telephone and transportation service for Pennsylvania consumers, by regulating public utilities and by serving as stewards of competition. For recent news releases, or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.state.pa.us

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Docket No. P-00052193

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