Press Release

PUC Seeks Comments on Revisions to Act 129 Total Resource Cost Test

Published on 3/11/2015

Filed under: Electric

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today issued for comment revisions to the total resource cost (TRC) test to analyze the costs and benefits of energy efficiency and conservation (EE&C) plans submitted by electric distribution companies (EDCs).  Act 129 of 2008 directs the Commission to use a TRC test to analyze the costs and benefits of the EDCs’ EE&C plans.

The Commission voted 5-0 to issue changes to the TRC test for comment. The proposed TRC test will be used in the event a Phase III of the EE&C program is implemented.  In separate action at today’s Public Meeting, the Commission voted to seek comments on a Tentative Implementation Order.

Commissioner James H. Cawley issued a statement.

On Oct. 15, 2008, Act 129 of 2008 became law and included implementation of EE&C programs that would produce usage reductions to meet legislatively-mandated targets through May 31, 2013.  On Aug. 2, 2012, the PUC issued a Final Implementation Order adopting a three-year Phase II Act 129 EE&C Program that will operate from June 1, 2013, through May 31, 2016.

On Oct. 23, 2014, the Commission issued a Secretarial Letter seeking comments on a possible Phase III of the EE&C program. In addition, the Commission held a stakeholder meeting on Dec. 2, 2014, to provide interested parties an opportunity to identify additional issues and concerns regarding the design of any future EE&C program and to address any questions regarding the topics and issues presented in the Phase III Secretarial Letter.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

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.

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Docket Nos. M-2015-2468992; M-2014-2424864

Contact:

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