The Public Utility Commission Wednesday issued for comment a Tentative Implementation Order on the future of energy efficiency and conservation (EE&C) programs established under Act 129 of 2008.

The Commission voted 5-0 to approve the Tentative Implementation Order that addresses issues related to the design and implementation of the next phase of the EE&C program.

Commissioner Pamela A. Witmer issued a statement.

The current EE&C plans are valid through May 2016, at which time the law directs the PUC to re-evaluate the costs and benefits to determine if the EE&C programs should continue. By initiating this planning process well in advance of 2016, the Commission intends to facilitate a smooth transition to minimize any possible program lapses if the decision is made to move into the third phase of the program.

The Tentative Implementation Order solicits comments on the evaluation of the EE&C program, the proposed additional required reductions in consumption and peak demand, as well as on the proposals addressing the design and implementation of the next round of the EE&C program.

The Commission proposes to implement a five-year Phase III of the Act 129 EE&C program that would operate from June 1, 2016, through May 31, 2021.

On October 23, 2014, the Commission issued a Secretarial Letter seeking comments. 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.

On October 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 August 2, 2012, the PUC issued a Final Implementation Order adopting a three-year Phase II Act 129 EE&C Program that operates from June 1, 2013, through May 31, 2016.

Act 129 also addressed issues such as electric utility and default service provider responsibilities; conservation service providers; smart meter technology; time-of-use rates; real-time pricing plans; default service procurement; market misconduct; alternative energy sources; and cost recovery.

For more information, visit the PUC’s Act 129 webpage.

3/16/2015