Press Release

PUC Announces Request for Proposal to Provide Long-Term, Statewide Evaluation of Utility Energy Efficiency and Demand Response Programs

Published on 10/16/2015

Filed under: Electric

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today posted a request for proposal for a statewide evaluator to provide long-term, statewide evaluation of electric distribution company (EDC) energy efficiency and demand response programs.

The request for proposal is a solicitation to provide evaluation services for up to six years to audit program results and verify specific electricity reduction claims of EDCs in response to Act 129 specifications.

As mandated by Act 129 of 2008, the seven largest Pennsylvania EDCs are required to file a plan for consumption and peak demand reductions. The PUC will then review the plans for approval, which require the EDCs to meet established reduction targets for May 31, 2021.

The statewide evaluator will work with senior Commission staff and assist the PUC to:

• Implement a legislative mandate containing significant consumption and peak demand reduction targets;
• Audit programs to be implemented across Pennsylvania by the seven largest Pennsylvania electric utilities;
• Evaluate and improve the EDCs’ programs during their five years of implementation; and
• Provide assessments and recommendations to policymakers for potential programs beyond the 2021 program implementation period. 

The term of the contract will be from the effective date of the contract, expected to be March 1, 2016, until Feb. 28, 2022.

Act 129 expanded the PUC’s oversight responsibilities and imposed requirements with the overall goal of reducing electricity consumption and demand. It added several new sections to and amended several existing sections of the Public Utility Code. 

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” Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission on Facebook for easy access to information on utility issues.

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Contact:

• Deputy Press Secretary
  717-787-5722