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The names "AEP Texas Commercial & Industrial Limited Partnership" [sic] and "AEP Retail Energy" are not deceptive or misleading, and are not in violation of Commission Rules, a Texas State Office of Administrative Hearings ALJ said in a proposal for decision regarding AEP Texas Commercial & Industrial Retail Limited Partnership's application to serve mass market customers
Just Energy Customer Growth Continues; Earnings Down on Mild Weather
In reporting earnings yesterday, Just Energy said that its customer count, in terms of long-term customer aggregation, stood at 3.870 million Residential Customer Equivalents (RCEs) as of March 31, 2012.
• Best Energy, LLC Seeks New Licenses
• The Eric Ryan Corporation Seeks New License
Connecticut Light & Power Posts New Default Service Rates
Connecticut Light & Power has posted new Last Resort Service rates for the three-month period beginning July 1, 2012.
Maine PUC Sets New Default Service Rates at CMP, BHE
The Maine PUC has set the energy component for large non-residential Standard Offer rates at Central Maine Power and Bangor Hydro-Electric for the month of June.
Washington Gas Energy Services Seeks Investigation into Retail Supplier Access to AMI Data in D.C.
Washington Gas Energy Services, Inc. has filed a petition at the District of Columbia PSC, in Formal Case 1083, for an investigation into retail electricity supplier access to smart meter data.
Nooruddin Investments to Pay $7,000 to Settle PUCT Staff Compliance Audit
Nooruddin Investments, LLC d/b/a Discount Power would pay $7,000 under a settlement with PUCT Staff to resolve allegations that Discount Power was not in full compliance with six provisions of the Substantive Rules
PJM IMM Withdraws Complaint Over Capacity Sell Offer as Moot
The PJM Independent Market Monitor has filed at FERC to withdraw its complaint against the unnamed owner of an unnamed capacity unit which the IMM alleged was using modeling assumptions in its capacity sell offer that were inconsistent with the Minimum Offer Price Rule in the Reliability Pricing Model.
May 17
Equitable Gas Files to Implement Purchase of Receivables Program
Equitable Gas Company, LLC has filed at the Pennsylvania PUC to implement a Purchase of Receivables program.
The ERCOT Power Balance Penalty Curve (PBPC) should have a gentler slope and the starting energy bid price should remain at $200 given other changes to the market that have already been made, and are expected to be made, Commissioner Kenneth Anderson of the Public Utility Commission of Texas said in a memo in advance of tomorrow's open meeting
Direct Energy Files to Use New Trade Name in Texas
Direct Energy LP has filed an application for an amendment to its Texas REP certificate (#10040) to add the trade name ...
Calif. Report Details Enrollments on Direct Access Denied due to Shopping Cap
Nearly 29,000 enrollment requests for direct access in California were denied service during the January 2012 enrollment period as a result of the direct access caps being reached, according to a report from the PUC.
United Illuminating Files New Default Service Rates
United Illuminating has filed new Last Resort Service rates for the three-month period beginning July 1.
Ohio Approves Changes to Retail Market at Vectren Energy Delivery
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio has accepted a stipulation regarding changes to the retail market under Vectren Energy Delivery's Standard Choice Offer (SCO) auction, including the possible introduction of a discount rate to purchased receivables.
• CreativEnergy Options Receives New License
• Utilities Analyses, Inc. Receives New License
• Energy Professionals, LLC Receives New License
• Platinum Advertising II Receives New License
• Mondre Energy Seeks New License
• Illinois Posts Prices for RECs Procured for Default Service
• ERCOT Determines Silas Ray Unit Not Needed for Reliability
• Connecticut Opens Docket on Bypassable and Non-Bypassable FMCCs
May 16
Duquesne Light Seeks to Increase Residential POR Discount on All Suppliers to Fund Referral Program
Duquesne Light has proposed increasing the Purchase of Receivables discount rate to all retail electric suppliers serving residential customers to recover costs of its proposed Standard Offer customer referral program, which is part of its proposed default service plan for the period beginning June 1, 2013 (see earlier story for details on the referral program).
• Utilities Analyses, Inc. Seeks New License
• Groundswell, Inc. Seeks New License
Broker-Consultant 5 Officially Launches Service
Broker-consultant 5 has officially announced its launch of service.
Aside from previously reported retail auctions and referral programs (see earlier story), Duquesne Light proposes to implement several processes meant to remove barriers to customer choice under its proposed default service plan for the period beginning June 1, 2013, including "seamless move" and "switch on connect" functionalities, plus bill ready billing.
Testimony Provides Clearer Picture of Load Cap for Duquesne Light Retail Auction
Testimony concerning Duquesne Light's proposed default service plan has clarified how the load cap in Duquesne Light's proposed opt-in retail auction will function
Nstar Files New Basic Service Rates for C&I Customers
Nstar has filed new basic service rates for the period beginning July 1.
• Nordic Energy Services Wins Opt-Out Aggregation Contract
• Acclaim Energy Advisors Names Ken Cowan VP of Government/Education
• ERCOT Files Annual REC Compliance & Trading Report
May 15
Energetix Begins Offering Electricity in New Territory
Energetix has begun offering residential electric supply at ...
FERC Approves Payment of PJM Price Responsive Demand Credits to Load Serving Entities Only, For Now
Credits under PJM's price responsive demand (PRD) program, which reflect the capacity savings from the existence of the price responsive demand, will be paid only to load serving entities, and not non-LSE PRD providers, under a FERC order issued yesterday, but FERC will be monitoring the issue going forward, and ordered reports on PRD market development
Start-up Amplified Power & Gas Readies Retail Market Entry
A new start-up, Amplified Power & Gas, LLC, will market electricity and natural gas to residential and commercial end-users in ...
Constellation Energy to Phase-Out MXenergy Brand
Constellation Energy will cease using the MXenergy brand effective June 1, the company confirmed to Matters today
Switch Holds Decline Considerably at Oncor
The number of switch holds applicable to residential customers in ERCOT as part of entering into a deferred payment plan declined significantly at Oncor during April
Maryland OPC Proposes Alternative True-Up Mechanism for Critical Peak Rebate Costs/Revenues
The Maryland Office of People's Counsel has opposed a proposal to include reconciliations of revenues from the PJM market and the costs of credits paid to customers under critical peak rebates in the nonbypassable EmPOWER MD charge, further clouding cost recovery issues relating to the critical peak rebate programs.
May 14
Ambit Energy Enters New State for Electricity, Adds Gas Territories Elsewhere
Ambit Energy has entered several new territories for electric and gas service.
Texas Staff File Final Propose to Set Demand Ratchet Waiver Threshold
Staff of the Public Utility Commission of Texas would retain the previously proposed demand ratchet waiver threshold of 25% in a draft proposal for adoption to implement House Bill 1064
Gulf Oil Limited Partnership Receives Electric License in New State
• Concord Engineering Group Seeks New License
• JFN Consulting, Inc. Seeks New License
• Arbena Energy Seeks New License
A settlement in National Fuel Gas Distribution Corporation's 1307(f) proceeding in Pennsylvania would allocate a portion of contingency capacity, and attendant costs, to choice customers
Leaked Power2Switch Commercial Featuring Brian Scalabrine Goes Viral
In the few moments of spare time available to your editor here at Matters, one of my pastimes is keeping up with the sports media world (having worked there prior to retail energy).
Rochester Gas & Electric Files to Use Alternative Index for Cashouts
Rochester Gas & Electric has filed with the New York PSC to modify its tariff to allow the use of an alternative suitable index for cashouts as set forth in its Gas Transportation Operating Procedures (GTOP) Manual.
Pennsylvania PUC Approves EDI Changes for Future PLC/NSPL Values, Net Metering
The Pennsylvania PUC has approved the Electronic Data Exchange Working Group's request for two change controls for statewide implementation, to provide electric generation suppliers (EGSs) with information on future customer peak load contribution values, and to implement a net metering flag.
Texas Staff File Final Proposal to Grant ERCOT Authority to Conduct Pilot Projects
Staff of the Public Utility Commission of Texas have filed a draft proposal for adoption to amend P.U.C. SUBST. R. 25.361 in order to give ERCOT the authority to conduct pilot projects to evaluate new and emerging technologies, such as energy storage projects, to determine the benefits that these technologies may bring to the ERCOT system
From the Archives: North American Power Readies Gas Market Entry in Seven Markets
As first reported by Matters on April 3, North American Power's plans to launch gas service this summer in seven territories
From the Archives: Maryland Electric Migration Data for March
As first reported by Matters on April 27, Maryalnd electric migration data for March
May 11
Energy Plus Offering Service in New State
Energy Plus Holdings has begun offering electricity in Massachusetts
ComEd Posts New Electricity Supply Charges
Commonwealth Edison has posted new purchased electricity charges (PEC) for the period beginning June 1.
Deca Energy Seeks License in New State
• dPi Energy Receives Authority to Use New Trade Names
• L5E, LLC Receives Texas Aggregator Certificate
United Illuminating Posts April Migration Data
United Illuminating has posted electric migration statistics as of April 30, 2012.
Midwest ISO May Face "Operational Challenge" from EPA MATS Rule, Study Says
The Midwest ISO, "may face an operational challenge in managing outage scheduling," as coal units are compelled to comply with the federal EPA's Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS) rule, The Brattle Group found in a study released today.
• Homefield Energy Wins Contract to Supply 51 Illinois Communities Under Opt-Out Aggregation
• Retail Electric Providers Named BBB Winners of Distinction
• North American Power, Breitbart Named Finalists for American Business Awards
May 10
New Duquesne Light Default Service Plan Calls for 12-Month Fixed Residential Rate
Residential customers at Duquesne Light would be served under a 12-monh fixed rate under Duquesne Light's proposed default service plan for the period June 1, 2013 through May 31, 2015
IDT Energy Customer Growth Accelerates
IDT Energy recorded a significant acceleration in its customer growth rate during the three months ended March 31, 2012.
While Staff of the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio found on a quantitative basis that prices under a Market Rate Offer (MRO) are more favorable than the pricing under AEP Ohio's proposed electric security plan (ESP), Staff said in testimony on the ESP that other considerations should be taken into account by the Commission, including rate "stability" and a mechanism for utility-built generation
Interstate Gas Supply Receives Authority to Market in New Territory
• Verdigris Energy Receives New License
• Best Energy, LLC Seeks License
Decline in Number of Residential Customers on Competitive Supply Accelerates at PPL
The loss of residential customers taking competitive supply at PPL increased during the most recent week, according to the most recent data from the Pennsylvania PUC
Ohio Commission Directs Staff to Propose Next Steps on Customer Data Access, Privacy
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio has directed Staff to form a proposal recommending the appropriate next steps for the Commission's review of consumer privacy protection and customer data access issues, and to file its proposal in a new docket.
• Connecticut PURA Opens Docket to Review Electric Bill Charges, Including Bypassable and Nonbypassable Components
• United Illuminating Reports Last Resort Service Supplier
May 9
Noble Americas Gas & Power Launching New Retail Electric Supplier
Noble Americas Gas & Power Corp. has created a new retail electric supply company called Your Energy Holdings, LLC
Blue Pilot Energy Launches Service in New Territory
Blue Pilot Energy has begun offering residential electricity service at PPL.
Maryland PSC Approves Conceptual Change in SOS Structure at Delmarva
The Maryland PSC, in authorizing Delmarva Power to proceed with its plan for the deployment of advanced meters, has approved, in concept, a change in the structure of SOS at Delmarva.
Nazarian Needs Assurance PSC Wasn't "Duped" in Approving Exelon-Constellation Merger
Maryland PSC Chairman Douglas Nazarian said that he needs to be assured that the Commission wasn't "duped" in approving the merger of Exelon and Constellation Energy, after the merged company violated market power mitigation conditions contained in the merger order relating to its generating plants.
New Hampshire Opens Proceeding to Address Electric, Gas Purchase of Receivables
The New Hampshire PUC has officially opened Docket DE 12-097 to investigate the merits of instituting purchase of receivables, customer referral, and electronic interface programs for both electric and natural gas distribution utilities in New Hampshire
Residential Migration to Competitive Supply Slows at ComEd During March; Accelerates at Ameren
Residential customers at Commonwealth Edison who have switched to a competitive supplier and completed at least one billing cycle on competitive supply increased by 23,000 accounts during the month of March, according to the latest statistics from the Illinois Commerce Commission
• Incite Energy Receives New License
• Alternative Utility Services Receives New License
• 220 Energy, LLC Receives New License
• Dennis K. Burke, Inc. Seeks New License
RESA Cautions Pa. Lawmakers on Smart Meter Opt-Out, Seeks EDC Exit from TOU Service
Allowing Pennsylvania utilities to forego installation of smart meters would, "stifle innovative products and services from the emerging competitive marketplace," the Retail Energy Supply Association said in testimony to lawmakers on House Bill 2188 yesterday.
May 8
BlueStar Energy Services Expanding to Natural Gas
BlueStar Energy Services, Inc. d/b/a BlueStar Energy Solutions is expanding to retail natural gas service
TERM Power & Gas Seeking License in New State
TERM Power & Gas, LLC d/b/a ENCOA applied for an electric supplier in ...
Liberty Power Enters Four New Residential Markets, Says More Planned
Liberty Power today announced that it had entered four new residential markets.
Nstar Announces Lower Basic Service Rates
Nstar today announced lower basic service rates for the period beginning July 1
Texas REPs Seek Additional Criteria to Measure Fixed Prepaid Rates' Compliance with POLR Rate Limit
Texas retail electric providers have asked the PUCT to modify a proposal to establish the criteria for determining whether prepaid electric service sold to residential customers is less than the price charged by the Provider of Last Resort, as required by the PURA §39.107(g), as REPs said that the proposed criteria still do not appropriately take into account fixed price prepaid contracts whose price may become above-market over time
Turner, Davis Urge Caution on Raising ERCOT Price Cap, Cite Impact on REPs
Texas State Representative Sylvester Turner and Senator Wendy Davis filed separate letters to the PUCT Commissioners expressing concern with the proposed increase in the ERCOT system wide offer cap to $4,500 effective August 1, citing, in particular, the impact on retail electric providers
Ohio Industrials Propose Use of Average RPM Rate for Capacity at AEP Ohio
The Ohio Energy Group, composed of several large industrial customers, has proposed in AEP Ohio's electric security plan proceeding that the capacity charge applicable to competitive retail suppliers taking capacity from AEP Ohio under the Fixed Resource Requirement should equal the average price of RPM over the nearly three-year term remaining in the FRR
IGS Energy Proposes Retail Auctions at AEP Ohio
Interstate Gas Supply, Inc. proposed that AEP Ohio use retail auctions, rather than wholesale auctions, to serve default service customers, both for a percent of customers during a transition period, and then all default service customers starting in 2015
From the Archives: Illinois Migration Data for February
As first reported by Matters on April 1, Illinois migration data for February
May 7
Interstate Gas Supply Launches Electric Service in Two New Territories
Interstate Gas Supply has begun offering residential electric service in two new territories.
BGE Files Corrected POR Discount Rates
Baltimore Gas & Electric filed an errata to one of its proposals for setting the discount rates for the Purchase of Receivables program
Duke Energy Retail Margins, Volumes Lower
Duke Energy Retail experienced lower volumes and margins during the first quarter of 2012, versus the year-ago quarter, parent Duke Energy said in reporting earnings.
Dayton Power & Light Affiliates See Decline in Retention of Migrated Load as Smaller Customers Shop
The reduction in Dayton Power & Light's (DP&L) gross margin in the first quarter as a result of customer switching was approximately $27 million, up $18 million from the first quarter of 2011, AES reported during an earnings call
Integrys Energy Services Margins Decline on Expired Contracts; Looks to Aggregation
Core earnings at Integrys Energy Services for the first quarter were lower at $5.8 million, versus $11.6 million a year ago, due to, among other things, lower margins.
Arizona ALJ Recommends Approval of Program to Allow Large Customers to Shop
An Arizona ALJ has recommended that a settlement at Arizona Public Service, which contains an opportunity for certain large customers to elect an alternative source of wholesale power, should be approved without modification
BGE Files New SOS Rates, Updates Transmission, Rider 8 As Well
Baltimore Gas & Electric has filed with the Maryland PSC new residential and Type I SOS rates for the period beginning October 1, 2012, and new Type II SOS rates for the period beginning June 1, 2012
Frontier Utilities Fills Management Team, Cites Expertise to Make Company a "National" Provider
Frontier Utilities, LLC, a retail electricity provider headquartered in Houston, Texas, announced that it has added three new executives to its senior leadership team.
RESA: New Jersey Mass Market Retail Structure Not Built to Last
The retail market design in New Jersey for middle and mass market customers served under the fixed price Basic Generation Service (BGS-FP), "is not a retail market structure that is built to last," Jay Kooper, New Jersey State Chairman of the Retail Energy Supply Association, warned Friday during a legislative-style hearing concerning the annual review of BGS structure
May 4
YEP Energy Launches Service Outside of ERCOT
YEP Energy has launched its first residential electricity offers outside of Texas.
A discussion during yesterday's NRG Energy earnings conference call shows how Texas retail electric providers would be forced to subsidize their competitors if a mandatory capacity payment were introduced to the market
Liberty Power Owners Launching Wholesale Business to Supply Utilities
Several owners of Liberty Power Corp. are launching a new wholesale business to supply utilities
• Retailers Association of Massachusetts Seeks Broker License
• Energy Plus Holdings Seeks to Use New Trade Name in Texas
PPL Sees Marginal Decline in Residential Customers on Competitive Supply
The loss of residential customers taking competitive supply at PPL slowed considerably during the most recent week, according to the most recent data from the Pennsylvania PUC.
California ISO Files 2013 Local Capacity Final Report
The California ISO has filed with the PUC its 2013 Local Capacity Technical Analysis Final Report and Study Results
May 3
PPL New Default Service Plan Includes Six-Month Fixed Price; Nov. 2013 Opt-in Auction
PPL Electric Utilities has filed a default service plan for the period beginning June 1, 2013 that would offer residential customers a fixed generation rate for six months, rather than three months, and would delay service under an opt-in retail auction until 2014
NRG Reports Retail Customer Growth, Lower Retail Earnings
NRG Energy's retail businesses collectively grew their customer base by 31,000 since the fourth quarter of 2011, NRG Energy said in reporting earnings this morning.
Connecticut PURA: Residential Gas Choice Would Increase Distribution Rates
Expanding the unbundling of the natural gas industry to allow for residential choice in Connecticut would increase distribution rates, while any cost savings from competitive supply are "unclear," the Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority said in comments to the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.
TXU Energy Launches Free Nights Plan
TXU Energy has launched an electricity product offering energy charges of 0¢/kWh during the night
Results from Illinois Energy, Capacity Default Service Procurements Posted
The Illinois Power Agency has posted results from the recent default service procurements at Commonwealth Edison (energy only) and Ameren (energy and capacity).
Easy Energy Seeks Supplier License in New State
• Secure Energy Solutions Seeks New License
• Power Target LLC Seeks New License
• EMEX, LLC Seeks New License
Customer Growth Continues at WGES
WGL Holdings' retail energy marketing segment reported operating earnings of $5.3 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2012, compared to $8.0 million in the year-ago quarter.
Switching Negatively Impacts PSEG in Q1; Holds Line on Migration Forecast
Customer migration away from Basic Generation Service in New Jersey negatively impacted first quarter earnings at PSEG Power by $20 million, parent Public Service Enterprise Group reported yesterday.
PJM IMM Seeks FERC Determination That Capacity Supplier's Sell Offer Is Too Low
The PJM Independent Market Monitor has filed a complaint at FERC seeking a determination that various modeling assumptions, and the resulting sell offer, from an unnamed capacity supplier are invalid, and that the such assumptions must be modified to conform to the Minimum Offer Price Rule..
May 2
Shock: KEMA Says Expanded Hourly Pricing "Cannot Reasonably be Recommended" at ConEd
An expansion of mandatory hourly pricing (MHP) default service at Consolidated Edison, "would only burden these [new MHP] customers and the rate base with additional interval metering cost," and, "cannot reasonably be recommended," KEMA, Inc. said in an evaluation of the current MHP program prepared for ConEd.
Texas Generators Shamelessly Seek Capacity Subsidies On Top of $7,000 Scarcity Prices
Despite an imminent increase in the ERCOT price cap to $4,500, and likely increase to at least $7,000 in 2014, several unregulated Texas asset owners continue to seek government subsidies in the form of capacity payments imposed on load
PJM Forced to RMR FirstEnergy Units, FirstEnergy Reports Higher Competitive Retail Sales
Increased competitive retail sales directly to large and mass market customers by FirstEnergy Solutions, net of the impact from changed pricing versus the year-ago, led to a $117 million improvement in commodity margin during the first quarter of 2012, FirstEnergy said in reporting earnings
• Satori Enterprises Seeks New License
• Network Implementation Consulting Seeks New License
• Energy Management Resources of Missouri Seeks New License
• Patriot Energy Group Receives New License
ERCOT Confirms That Rotating Outages "Not Likely"
ERCOT's latest Seasonal Assessment of Resource Adequacy for the summer of 2012 confirms that, while Energy Emergency Alerts (EEA) are likely to be called on multiple occasions, "these EEA declarations are not likely to result in the need to institute rotating outages."
Class Action Suit Filed Against Retail Supplier Over Alleged Pricing
A class action suit was filed against a retail supplier today by Sanford Wittels & Heisler LLP, alleging that the marketing and pricing of the supplier's products violates the New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act
MP2 Energy Would Pay $10,000 to Resolve EILS Shortfall
MP2 Energy, LLC would pay $10,000 under a settlement with PUCT Staff to resolve Staff's allegations that MP2 Energy violated Section 39.151(j) of the Public Utility Regulatory Act (PURA) and P.U.C. SUBST. R. 25.503(f)(2), concerning failure to adhere to Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) Protocol § 8.1.3.1(6)(a), relating to Performance Criteria for Emergency Interruptible Load Service (EILS) Qualified Scheduling Entities (QSEs) obligations, on February 2-3, 2011
May 1
TXU Sees Improvement in Customer Churn
TXU Energy saw its lowest rate of residential customer churn in seven quarters, during the first quarter of 2012.
The Massachusetts DPU has ruled that retail suppliers cannot use utility consolidated billing without participating in the forthcoming purchase of receivables programs, and also affirmed that POR discount rates shall be class specific, in an interlocutory order and order on clarification
Ohio Power Seeks to Extend Current Capacity Charges Applied to Retail Suppliers Beyond May 31
Ohio Power Company has petitioned PUCO to maintain the tiered capacity prices applicable to retail suppliers, including the $255/MW-day charge for competitive load in the second tier, until PUCO issues a merit decision in the capacity charge case
FERC: AEP Formula Capacity Rate "May Be Substantially Excessive"
FERC sets capacity rate for hearing
Deafening Silence on Retail Choice Punctuates Entergy Texas MISO Application at PUCT
Entergy Texas, Inc. filed its application at the PUCT (40346) to transfer operational control of its transmission assets to the Midwest Independent Transmission System Operator, Inc.
Pepco has filed with the Maryland PSC new residential and Type I SOS rates for the period beginning October 1, 2012, and new Type II SOS rates for the period beginning June 1, 2012
Delmarva Power Files New SOS Rates
Delmarva Power has filed with the Maryland PSC new residential and Type I SOS rates for the period beginning October 1, 2012, and new Type II SOS rates for the period beginning June 1, 2012.
Potomac Edison Files New SOS Rates
Potomac Edison has filed with the Maryland PSC new residential, Type I, and Type II SOS rates for the period beginning June 1, 2012.
April 30
Texas Won't Expand Rulemaking to Cover REPs' Disconnect/Reconnect Obligations
The Public Utility Commission of Texas will not expand the scope of a rulemaking concerning conforming changes to the disconnection and reconnection rules to address changes in retail electric providers' disconnection notices or their obligation to submit reconnection requests
Staff of the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio have recommended that Dayton Power & Light should "strongly consider" filing an electric security plan to govern the Standard Service Offer, as an alternative to DP&L's proposed market rate offer
Hess Small Business Services Seeks New License
• Start-up Deca Energy Seeks Supplier License
• Definitive Energy Group Receives New License
• EMEX, LLC Receives New License
Calpine to Build New Capacity in ERCOT for Summer 2014
Calpine announced Friday that it is actively permitting the addition of 520 MW of combined-cycle capacity at existing sites in ERCOT, with anticipated commencement of commercial operations by the summer of 2014
Dominion Retail Reports Higher Earnings, Declining Electric Customer Count
Dominion Retail reported higher earnings including noncontrolling interests before interest and taxes of $98 million for the first quarter ending March 31, 2012, versus $66 million in the year-ago quarter.
Maryland Residential SOS Rates to Fall at BGE, Pepco
Maryland's April SOS procurement will result in lower SOS costs for residential customers at most utilities.
D.C. PSC Orders Pepco to File Design for Purchase of Receivables
The District of Columbia PSC yesterday ordered Pepco to submit a purchase of receivables implementation plan, "for the purpose of possibly implementing a POR program in [the] District of Columbia."
Residential Electric Migration Rebounds at BGE, Surges in All Territories
After February ended 35 consecutive months of growth in the number of residential electric customers taking competitive supply at Baltimore Gas & Electric, March saw a return to growth in residential migration at BGE.
Decline in Residential Customers on Competitive Supply Persists at PPL
The loss of residential customers taking competitive supply at PPL continued at a steady rate during the most recent week, according to the most recent data from the Pennsylvania PUC.
Growth in Residential Gas Customers on Competitive Supply Essentially Steady at BGE, WGL
The rate of growth in the number of residential natural gas customers taking competitive supply was essentially steady during the first quarter of the year at Baltimore Gas & Electric and Washington Gas Light
Decline of Residential Shopping at South Jersey Gas Continues, PSE&G Growth Strong
South Jersey Gas continues to see a decline in the number of residential customers taking competitive supply, while growth in shopping among residential gas customers continues to be strong at Public Service Electric and Gas, according to the latest data from the New Jersey BPU
April 26
Retail Suppliers: PPL Migration Rider is "Illegal, Bad Idea" That Will Harm Competition
The reconciliation rider recommended for approval by an ALJ at PPL Electric Utilities is, "an illegal bad idea that will most assuredly harm the development of retail competition in the electricity market," the Retail Energy Supply Association said in a brief on exceptions.
Cincinnati Selects Supplier for Opt-Out Aggregation
The City of Cincinnati, Ohio has selected a supplier for its municipal opt-out aggregation
Agway Energy Services Parent to Acquire Retail Propane Operations of Inergy, L.P.
Suburban Propane Partners, L.P., which markets electricity and natural gas through subsidiary Agway Energy Services, has reached a definitive agreement with Inergy, L.P. and various affiliates to acquire the sole membership interest in Inergy Propane, LLC, including certain wholly-owned subsidiaries of Inergy Propane, LLC, and the assets of Inergy Sales
• MCENERGY, Inc. Receives New License
• The Eric Ryan Corporation Receives New License
• Energy Professionals, LLC Receives New License
• Utilities Analyses, Inc. Receives New License
Pa. PUC Approves Time of Use Generation Service Programs at Duquesne Light
The Pennsylvania PUC has approved two Time of Use pilots for residential default service customers at Duquesne Light.
PUCO Denies Waivers Sought by AEP Ohio, FirstEnergy EDCs in Electric Security Plan Filings
In separate orders, the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio has denied certain waivers separately requested by Ohio Power, and also Cleveland Electric Illuminating, Ohio Edison and Toledo Edison, concerning the information required to be filed in support of their respective electric security plans
Pennsylvania PUC Fines Retail Supplier $400 for Back-billing Violation
The Pennsylvania PUC has fined a retail supplier $400 for not amortizing back-billed supply charges over the appropriate period.
April 25
RESA Seeks Rulemaking for Non-Recourse Purchase of Receivables in New Jersey
The Retail Energy Supply Association has petitioned the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities to implement a rulemaking proceeding to adopt a rule requiring each Electric Distribution Company (EDC) and Gas Public Utility (GPU) to institute a non-recourse purchase of receivables program that does not revert customers to dual billing when in arrears
Largest U.S. Consumer Energy Buying Group Expanding to Electric, Gas Brokering
An affiliate of Heaney Energy Corp. (Heat USA), which describes itself as the largest consumer energy buying consortium in the United States, is entering the retail electricity and natural gas brokering business
• BTU Direct Marketing Seeks New License
• Utilities Analyses, Inc. Seeks New License
• National1 Energy LLC Receives New License
• ML Halle Oil Service Seeks New License
Pacific Gas & Electric Seeks to Offer Another Value-Added Product to Bundled Customers
Pacific Gas and Electric has applied at the California PUC to establish a Green Option Tariff, to be available to all PG&E bundled electricity customers
Texas Switch Holds Decline in Three Areas, Up Slightly at Oncor
The number of switch holds applicable to residential customers in ERCOT as part of entering into a deferred payment plan declined in three territories during Match, but saw a small increase at Oncor
Maine PUC Launches Standard Offer Green Option
The Maine PUC has formally launched Maine Green Power, the voluntary renewable option available for Standard Offer customers offered by 3Degrees
• Jeff Shoaf named Senior VP at Amerex Energy Services
• Connecticut Light & Power Reports last Resort Service Suppliers
• Sharyland Utilities Revises Proposed New Delivery Charges
April 24
Gulf Oil Seeking Supplier License in New State
Gulf Oil Limited Partnership has applied for an electric supplier license in ...
People's Counsel Asks Maryland PSC to Confirm General Prohibition on Telephonic Contracting
The Maryland Office of People's Counsel said that the state's electric and natural gas markets would benefit from "clarification" regarding the use of telephonic enrollments by suppliers, expressing frustration with the lack of understanding, particularly among new entrants, that telephonic enrollments are not valid absent a written signature, unless the transaction qualifies for certain statutory exemptions
L5E, LLC, Led by Former First Choice Power, Juice Energy Execs, Seeks Aggregator Certificate
• Hudson Energy Services Registers as Gas Supplier in New State
• Black Hawk Resources Limited Seeks New License
• One Source Energy Group Seeks New License
Day-ahead and real-time energy prices in PJM were inflated by at least $141,000 during a two-week period in which mitigation was not applied to several Constellation Energy units as required under a Maryland PSC order, while total excess revenues to Exelon resulting from what the company called an "inadvertent error" totaled approximately $230,000
Staff of the Public Utility Commission of Texas have filed a draft proposal for adoption concerning distributed natural gas generation, ownership of distributed renewable generation, and related issues, including issues impacting retail electric providers
Texas Staff Seek Comment on Smart Meter Opt-Out Questions
Staff of the Public Utility Commission of Texas have sought comment on a series of questions exploring the feasibility and effects of offering a smart meter opt-out in the Texas electric market
BGE HOME Acquires Van Sant, Inc. and VSI Commercial, Inc.
BGE HOME announced that it has acquired the residential and commercial plumbing and HVAC business assets of Van Sant, Inc. and VSI Commercial, Inc., both based in Mt. Airy, Maryland.
April 23
Texas Staff Seeks Commission Guidance on Shorter Reconnection Timelines Applicable to REPs
Staff of the Public Utility Commission of Texas has sought guidance from the Commission concerning potential amendments to rules governing retail electric providers' obligation to submit reconnection requests, including shortened timelines for REPs to submit such requests after a disconnected-for-nonpayment customer has made payment
Texas Staff File Draft Proposal for Disgorgement Rules
Staff of the Public Utility Commission of Texas have filed a draft proposal for publication to implement HB 2133, concerning the disgorgement of excess revenues resulting from a violation of PURA or administrative rule or protocol
IDT Energy Expands Residential Service to New Territory
IDT Energy has begun offering residential electric service at ...
PECO Sees Large Jump in Residential Gas Shoppers; Peoples Natural Gas Sees Decline
Fueled by the start of a Purchase of Receivables program, PECO saw the growth rate of residential migration to competitive supply nearly triple during the first quarter of the year
The Public Utility Commission of Texas approved an amendment to the REP certificate of TXU SESCO Energy Services Company to reflect its change in name to 4Change Energy Company, and a change in corporate structure
Sprague Energy Solutions Receives Supplier License in New State
• Council on Northeast Energy Receives New License
• Summit Power Brokers Receives New License
• Secure Energy Solutions Receives New License
Sharyland Files for Delivery Rate Increase for McAllen Territory
Sharyland Utilities, L.P. has filed to increase its unbundled delivery rates charged to REPs for residential, secondary, primary, and transmission service in its McAllen division to a level not to exceed AEP Texas Central Company's comparable average unbundled rates
• Pennsylvania OCA Posts Updated Electric Migration Data
• From the Archives: Massachusetts Electric Migration Data for February
April 20
Entergy Texas Competitive Generation Service Proposal is a "Long Way" from Statute, Anderson Says
The stipulated design for Entergy Texas' Competitive Generation Service (CGS) tariff has come a "long way" from the intent of the statute, PUCT Commissioner Kenneth Anderson said during a hearing yesterday, expressing disappointment concerning certain eligibility limits
GDF Suez's Think Energy Receives License in New State
• Riverside Energy Seeks New License
• Energy Professionals, LLC Receives New License
• Power Management Company Receives New License
A final Illinois Commerce Commission order has established a process to remove subsidies to residential customers with electric space heating under Commonwealth's Edison supply rates
AEP Confirms Strategy for Retail Supplier, Reports Impact from Ohio Switching
The negative impact on AEP first quarter 2012 earnings due to gross customer switching at AEP Ohio was up $42 million from the impact in the year-ago quarter, AEP said this morning in announcing earnings
FERC has approved a new shortage pricing mechanism at PJM which features an $850 per MWh reserve price cap, and a $2,700 per MWh combined energy and reserves price cap
Reliant, DPI Energy Adding New Trade Names
Two retail suppliers have separately filed before state regulators to add trade names to their supplier licenses.
Ontario Posts New Regulated Price Plan Rates
The Ontario Energy Board has released Regulated Price Plan (RPP) electricity commodity prices for the period May 1, 2012 through October 31, 2012
• N.Y. PSC Orders Corning to "Accommodate" Purchase of Receivables
• PUCO Schedule Would Not Accommodate May 2 Order for FirstEnergy EDCs' Electric Security Plan
April 19
Clearview Electric Expanding to Natural Gas
Clearview Electric, Inc. is seeking licenses in several states to act as a retail natural gas supplier
Customers to Take Competitive Supply at Indiana Michigan Power in "Near Future"
Certain customers at Indiana Michigan Power Company (I&M), an AEP company, intend to take electric service from competitive suppliers in the "near future," the Michigan PSC has been informed
Sperian Energy Corp. Receives License in New State
• Quake Energy Receives New Supplier License
• EMEX Seeks New License
• HealthTrust Purchasing Group Receives New License
Stipulation to Set Eligibility, Cap for Competitive Generation Service at Entergy Texas
A unanimous stipulation among parties would establish the eligibility and cap for the competitive generation service (CGS) tariff at Entergy Texas, Inc.
Retail Supplier Seeks Elimination of PSNH Charges for Billing, Switches
PNE Energy Supply LLC, d/b/a Power New England, has petitioned the New Hampshire PUC for an order requiring modifications to Public Service of New Hampshire's Services and Schedule of Charges for Energy Service Providers, "to ensure that all small customers benefit from retail electricity competition."
Residential Migration Growth Up at PSE&G, Slows at JCP&L
The growth rate in the number of residential electric customers on competitive supply accelerated during March at Public Service Electric & Gas, but decreased at Jersey Central Power & Light, according to the latest data on the BGS auction website
PPL Continues to See Decline in Residential Customers on Competitive Supply
PPL continued to see a loss in the number of residential customers on competitive supply during the most recent week, according to the most recent data from the Pennsylvania PUC
TXU Adds Walmart as Authorized Payment Location
TXU Energy has added 384 Walmart stores to its network
Retail Suppliers Ranked in Direct Selling News Global 100, 2011 Revenues Reported
Several retail energy suppliers or marketing companies were ranked in the Direct Selling News Global 100 list.
April 18
AEP Retail Energy Begins Offering Residential Service in New Territory
AEP Retail Energy has begun offering service to residential customers at ...
GDF SUEZ's Think Energy Begins Offering Service to Three New States, Two More States "Coming Soon"
Think Energy, GDF SUEZ Energy Resources' retail supplier focused on serving small business customers, announced this morning that it will expand its market presence to ...
HIKO Energy Seeks New License
• Glacial Energy Seeks Expanded Supplier License
• Banc Certified Merchant Services Receives Broker Licenses
• Summerview Energy Receives New License
Maine PUC Sets Default Services Rates at CMP, BHE
The Maine PUC has set the energy component for large non-residential Standard Offer rates at Central Maine Power and Bangor Hydro-Electric for the month of May
PUCO Staff Files Testimony Supporting Lower Capacity Charge at AEP Ohio
Staff of the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio has sponsored testimony supporting a reduced capacity charge applicable to capacity provided to retail suppliers from AEP Ohio under the AEP Ohio Fixed Resource Requirement plan
• New Base GCR Factor Approved at MichCon
• Michigan PSC Approves Value-Add Pilot at MichCon
April 17
Independence Energy Begins Offering Service in ERCOT
NRG Energy's network marketer Independence Energy has begun offering electricity in Texas
Ohio Power Company (AEP Ohio) has created an organization called FairEnergyOhio.org which is running television ads opposing a mechanism under which retail suppliers would be charged the Reliability Pricing Model price for 100% of capacity provided by Ohio Power Company under its Fixed Resource Requirement plan, rather than Ohio Power Company's higher, cost-based rate, during a transition period prior to a contemplated transition to market-based default service
Border Energy Seeking License in New State
• Texas Retail Energy Seeking License in New State
• Definitive Energy Group Seeks New License
• Telco Pros, Inc. Seeks New License
The issue of whether Pioneer Natural Resources USA, Inc.'s Spraberry Driver Unit should be reconfigured from secondary meters to one or more primary meters should not be addressed as part of the transition to retail competition for the former Cap Rock service areas now part of Sharyland Utilities, PUCT Staff and several other parties said in briefs on a certified issue
Staff of the Ontario Energy Board has issued a bulletin pertaining to (i) requirements that apply in the context of "network" or "multi-level" activities; and (ii) the status of internet transactions effected while a salesperson is present, whether occurring in the context of "network" or "multi-level" activities or otherwise
• Ohio Renewable Report Cites Long-Term Contracts as Policy Alternative
• Stream Energy Joins RESA
• From the Archives: Maryland Migration Data for February
April 16
Use of Three-Year SSO Portfolio at FirstEnergy Ohio Utilities to be Extended Under Stipulation
Ohio Edison, Cleveland Electric Illuminating, and Toledo Edison have filed a stipulation among several parties, including PUCO Staff and large industrials, to extend, with some modifications including the deferral of bypassable renewable energy costs, the utilities' current electric security plan (as ESP 3) through May 31, 2016, continuing to use a blend of 12, 24, and 36 month contracts to serve standard service offer (SSO) customers
• Resource Energy System LLC Receives New License
Champion Energy Services Offering Service in New Territories
Scott Fordham, president and chief executive officer, this morning announced that Champion Energy Services, LLC is now offering pricing to ...
United Illuminating Posts March Migration Data
United Illuminating has posted electric migration statistics as of March 31, 2012.
Viridian Energy Reports Maryland Enrollments During March
Viridian Energy has filed with the Maryland PSC its compliance report for the month of March, which lists the number of customers enrolled in Maryland during the month
FERC Revokes Market-Based Rate Authority of Retail Supplier, 34 Others
FERC revoked the market-based rate authority of 35 "public utilities," including a retail supplier, for what FERC said was failure to file a baseline electronic market-based rate tariff as previously ordered (see prior story).
• International Power Board Approves Sale of Remaining Stake to GDF SUEZ
• GDF Suez Marketing to Pay $20,000 Under Settlement with PUCT Staff
April 13
Costs/Benefits of Maryland Long-Term Generation to be Allocated to SOS Customers
The Maryland PSC has directed three of the state's investor-owned utilities to enter into a Contract for Differences to support construction of a 661 megawatt natural gas-fired combined-cycle generation plant in Charles County, Maryland, with all costs or benefits associated with the CfD borne solely by Standard Offer Service (SOS) customers in the residential and small commercial classes
Maryland PSC Orders Exelon to Show Cause Over "Inadvertent" Violation of Market Power Mitigation
The Maryland PSC has ordered Exelon to show cause why the Commission should not conclude that it violated the terms of the PSC's order approving its merger with Constellation after Exelon reported that it "inadvertently violated" (as the PSC described Exelon's characterization) market power mitigation commitments contained in the order
• Blue Pilot Energy Receives Gas License in New State
• WhiteFence Receives License in New State
PPL Sees Acceleration in Loss of Residential Customers on Competitive Supply
PPL saw a large jump in the net loss of residential customers on competitive supply during the most recent week, according to the most recent data from the Pennsylvania PUC.
RESA Seeks N.H. Action on Generic Retail Market Proceeding, POR
The Retail Energy Supply Association has requested that the New Hampshire PUC open a generic proceeding investigating the state's retail electric and natural gas markets, as contemplated by a July 2011 PUC order.
Maryland Approves Date for Termination of Columbia Gas Choice Program
The Maryland PSC approved the end of the Columbia Gas choice program effective with the ...
• PUCT Publishes for Comment Changes to EECRF Applicable to REPs
• PUCT Denies Customer-Sought Emergency Rulemaking on Smart Meters, Continues Review in Separate Project
April 12
Texas Commission to Publish Rule Raising Offer Cap Effective August 1, 2012
The Public Utility Commission of Texas will publish for comment a proposed rule that would raise the ERCOT system wide offer cap effective August 1, 2012
Connecticut Light & Power Posts March Migration Data
Connecticut Light & Power has posted migration statistics as of March 31, 2012
N.H. Includes Temporary Scrubber Costs in PSNH Default Service Rate
The New Hampshire PUC has approved a higher default service rate at Public Service of New Hampshire to reflect temporary authorization to collect costs related to the Merrimack Station Scrubber pending further investigation
RESA Seeks Ohio Review of Retail Market Structure
The Retail Energy Supply Association has asked the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio to, "initiate a proceeding to address the status of the current retail electric market and explore what changes need to be made to allow even more customers to reap the vast array of benefits that retail competition can provide"
Plymouth Rock Energy Receives License in New State
• Draft Would Grant License to HealthTrust Purchasing Group
• Quest Energy Solutions Receives New License
• Early Bird Power Receives New License
Ohio Consumers' Counsel Suggests SSO Rate Could Send Variable Price Signals
The Ohio Consumers' Counsel has suggested that Standard Service Offer rates could reflect time-based price signals, in comments on PUCO's inquiry into dynamic pricing.
Connecticut PURA Directs Retail Provider to Address Complaints, Allegations of "Deceptive" Tactics
The Connecticut PURA has directed a retail provider to respond to several questions regarding a recent increase customer complaints, including allegations that the supplier's representatives have stated that they were employees of Connecticut Light & Power or United Illuminating
• Veteran Energy Launches Affinity Program with Lone Survivor Foundation
• Direct Energy Seeking to Fill 200 Jobs with Move to Houston
• FirstEnergy Solutions Extends Agreement with Avon Lake Municipal Utilities
April 11
National Grid NY Pulling Retail Supplier's Authority to Operate, Will Mass Transition Customers
The Brooklyn Union Gas Company d/b/a National Grid NY has notified a retail supplier that its right to serve customers in the Brooklyn Union service territory will be involuntarily discontinued as of the close of business on April 30, 2012.
Pepco Files New POR Discount Rates
Pepco has filed with the Maryland PSC proposed new purchase of receivables (POR) discount rates, to take effect June 1, 2012.
Delmarva Files New POR Discount Rates
Delmarva Power & Light has filed with the Maryland PSC proposed new purchase of receivables (POR) discount rates, to take effect June 1, 2012
Snyder Brothers Seeks Expanded Supplier License
• Sprague Energy Solutions Seeks Electric Broker License
• Incite Energy Receives New License
• Energy Now Solutions Receives New License
Federal Government Holding Up Market Participant Wire Payments to ERCOT
ERCOT said in a market notice yesterday that it has seen an increase in wires being held for review by the Office of Foreign Asset Control (OFAC), an agency of the US Department of Treasury.
ERCOT Receives Notification of Suspension of Operations
ERCOT has received Notification of Suspension of Operations for the following Generation Resource
U.S. Gas & Electric Subsidiary Begins Residential Service in New State
Connecticut Gas & Electric has begun offering residential electric service at Connecticut Light & Power and United Illuminating
FERC Declines to Expand Case to Include Allocation of $100 Million in Overpayments by PJM Load
FERC has ordered hearing and settlement judge procedures regarding an error in PJM's calculation of Operating Reserve Lost Opportunity Cost credits paid to generators, which resulted in an overpayment of such credits funded by load, but declined to address in the instant proceeding any issues related to specific allocations PJM may ultimately be required to make, following its recoupment of any Opportunity Cost credits, to load
April 10
Major Energy Receives License in New State
• Palmco Power Seeks License in New State
• Energy Management Services Inc. Receives New License
• Apex Energy Services, LLC Receives New License
National Grid's Massachusetts Electric territory was the only service area in Massachusetts that saw a measurable increase in the number of residential customers taking competitive electric supply during the month of February
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission will hold a forum on May 31, 2012, in Philadelphia, to seek information from interested parties on PUC jurisdictional issues related to Alternative Fuel Vehicles (AFVs), specifically natural gas and electric vehicles
Calif. Draft Would Adopt Calculation to Implement Lower Direct Access Exit Fees
A California PUC comment (draft) resolution would adopt data filed by the utilities, and a methodology proposed by retail suppliers, to implement the new Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) adder as part of a modified Market Price Benchmark (MPB) used in setting exit fees applicable to direct access customers
Calif. Ruling Requires 10-Year RPS Compliance Horizon from Retail Suppliers
Competitive electric service providers (ESPs) in California will be required to file RPS compliance plans with a 10-year horizon, per an assigned commissioner's ruling from Commissioner Mark Ferron
FERC Enforcement Staff Alleges Market Manipulation by Barclays Bank PLC
FERC has posted a Staff Notice of Alleged Violations against Barclays Bank PLC and several individual traders
NEM Confirms Speakers for National Restructuring Conference, to Release Retail Trends Survey
The National Energy Marketers Association has released an agenda with confirmed speakers for its 15th Annual National Energy Restructuring Conference.
April 9
PECO Selects Retail Supplier to Serve Time of Use Pilot Customers
PECO has selected an electric generation supplier for its Time of Use (TOU) pilot
Maryland Staff Propose Extended Transition for End of Columbia Choice Program
Maryland PSC Staff have recommended that the Columbia Gas choice program be terminated with the October 2012 billing cycle
• Definitive Energy Group Seeks Licenses in Several States
Direct Energy Offering Texas Customers in Tornado-Stricken Counties Additional Payment Time
Direct Energy has announced it will be providing customers in Dallas, Tarrant, Ellis and Kaufman County a two week leeway on making their electricity payments following recent tornadoes
Capacity Prices Rise in New England
ISO New England's Forward Capacity Auction for the 2015-16 delivery year resulted in a higher capacity price, though the auction still hit the price floor
ISO New England Seeks Capacity Market Change to Address Market Power Concerns
ISO New England has sought changes to the information provided to market participants prior to the Forward Capacity Auction (FCA) to prevent pivotal suppliers from using the information to undertake strategic withdrawals
• Peninsula Energy Services Company Signs Supply Contract with Miami-Dade County
• PJM Posts Updated Base Residual Auction Planning Parameters
• WGES Products Green-e Certified
• GE Energy Financial Services Auctioning Capacity on Linden Project Linking PJM, NYISO
April 6
Philadelphia Inquirer: Pa. PUC Staff Seeks Revocation of Glacial License
The Philadelphia Inquirer reported late Thursday that, "Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission investigators on Thursday filed a formal complaint seeking to revoke the license of Glacial Energy of Pennsylvania, Inc. for allegedly omitting information in its 2009 application to be an electric generation supplier."
PPL Electric Files to Increase Purchase of Receivables Discount Rate
PPL Electric Utilities would modify its purchase of receivables discount rate under a base rate case filed with the Pennsylvania PUC
Texas Staff File Draft to Increase High, Low Offer Caps in ERCOT
Staff of the Public Utility Commission of Texas have filed a draft proposal for publication concerning an increase in the high and low system offer caps and the peaker net margin in ERCOT
Texas Staff File Draft to Modify Mechanism for EECRF Charge Applicable to REPs
Staff of the Public Utility Commission of Texas have filed a draft proposal for publication to revise the rules governing the TDU energy efficiency obligations (Subst. R. 25.181) to, among other things, modify how the energy efficiency charge is applied to retail electric providers, and to adjust the cost caps
Trademark Merchant Energy Receives Texas REP Certificate
• Twain River Energy Seeks New License
• EnerNOC Seeks New Aggregator License
Noble Americas Gas & Power to Purchase Stake in New Jersey Plant
Noble Americas Gas & Power Corp. has entered into an agreement to take a 25% stake in the Eagle Point Cogeneration Facility in New Jersey
Texas Staff File Recommended Order on Customer Petition for Smart Meter Rulemaking
Staff of the Public Utility Commission of Texas have issued a recommended proposed order regarding a petition from several customers who are seeking an emergency rulemaking to institute a prohibition on the installation of advanced meters and removal of already installed meters, or, alternatively, to provide customers with the ability to decline the use of a smart meter
• Maryland Order on Long-Term Capacity Imminent
April 5
Stomach Punch: Recommended Decision to Subject Shopping Customers at PPL to Migration Rider
A Pennsylvania ALJ would subject customers leaving default service at PPL Electric Utilities to a migration rider, similar to those in place at Pennsylvania's natural gas distribution companies, to recover (or refund) under/over-collections which accumulated during their time on default service
Glacial Energy Beings Offering Residential Electricity in Michigan
Glacial Energy has begun offering residential electricity service in Michigan
Illinois Commerce Commission Finalizes Protocols for Government Aggregations
The Illinois Commerce Commission has issued a final order regarding Commonwealth Edison's Rate GAP - Government Aggregation Protocols, including a requirement that ComEd provide to governmental aggregations lists of all retail customers, not only those on default service
Great Eastern Energy Receives New Supplier License
• Clearview Electric Receives New License
• OBE Electric LLC Receives New License
• Rapid Power Management Registers as Gas Seller in New State
Decline of Shopping Residential Customers at PPL Steady
The number of residential electric customers on competitive supply decreased at PPL during the most recent week, with the decline similar to the week-ago decline
Retail Supplier Seeks Collaborative to Design POR at AEP Ohio
Interstate Gas Supply, Inc. has requested that PUCO direct Ohio Power Company to, "establish a collaborative to design and implement a purchase of receivables ('POR') program for residential and small commercial customers in Ohio Power's service territory."
N.Y. to Issue RFI for Potential Energy Projects, Including Generation
New York Governor Andrew M. Cuomo's Energy Highway Task Force yesterday said that it expects to issue a Request for Information (RFI) on April 11, seeking ideas for potential energy projects from private developers, investor-owned utilities, the financial community and others
Retail Suppliers Protest PG&E Economic Development Proposal as Anti-Competitive
Retail suppliers and community choice aggregators have, as expected, protested Pacific Gas & Electric's proposed revisions to its electric economic development program due to the disparate treatment afforded to competitively served customers, and the allocation of costs of the program to all distribution customers
• Nstar-NU Merger Approved by Massachusetts, Connecticut
April 4
Seven Retail Suppliers Seeking Massachusetts Electric Licenses
A number of retail electric providers are seeking competitive electric supplier licenses in Massachusetts
ERCOT Seeks to Restructure Debt to Create Stable System Administration Fee
ERCOT has sought authorization at the Public Utility Commission of Texas to restructure its debt for, among other reasons, to stabilize the System Administration Fee
Connecticut Gas & Electric to Begin Offering Service at CL&P
Connecticut Gas & Electric, a wholly owned subsidiary of Energy Service Providers, Inc., which itself is owned by U.S. Gas & Electric, Inc., has submitted its initial pricing information to the Connecticut PURA for service at Connecticut Light & Power
• Incite Energy Seeks New Aggregator Certificate
• NEP Energy Services, Ltd. Receives New License
• Summit Power Brokers, LLC Receives New License
• MCENERGY Receives New License
TEXZON Utilities, Border Energy Enter Agreement Covering Ohio, Pennsylvania
Broker TEXZON Utilities, Ltd. said that it has entered into an agreement with Border Energy to expand residential and small commercial electricity offerings in Ohio, and eventually Pennsylvania.
Notes from DNV KEMA's 23rd Retail Executive Forum
• Stream Energy Pa. Customer Count into Six Figures
• Just Energy to Expand to UK This Summer
• TEPA to Expand to Beyond Texas
• Cawley Looks for Retail Providers to Offer More Time of Use Products
20% of U.S. Customers to Consider Switching in Next Year, Accenture Says
One in five U.S. electric customers who are eligible to choose their electricity provider are "considering" switching to another electricity provider in the next 12 months, Accenture said today based on results of its latest survey.
Viridity Energy, Inc. has filed a complaint at FERC regarding the compensation provided to customers registering with one curtailment service provider (CSP) in PJM's capacity program, but who use a different CSP for energy and ancillary services
• Reliant Signs Supply Agreement with City of Houston
• International Power Rebuffs GDF SUEZ Offer for Remaining Stake
• COMPETE Coalition Cites Growth in Competitive Load as Barometer of Retail Choice's Success
April 3
North American Power Readies Gas Market Entry in Seven Markets, Seeks Additional License
North American Power has received licenses to sell natural gas at retail in two states, and yesterday applied for its third gas marketer license
Great American Power Launches Service in New Territory
Great American Power has begun offering residential electricity at ...
ComEd Flat Per Bill POR Discount Insufficient to Recover Annualized Costs
The flat per-bill discount applied to purchased receivables at Commonwealth Edison was insufficient to recover annualized costs associated with the POR portion of the Purchase of Receivables and Consolidated Billing program in 2011, ComEd said in an annual report on the POR program
Plymouth Rock Energy Seeks License in New State
• Supermarket Procurement Co-op Topco Associates Seeks New License
• EnerNOC Seeks Broker Licenses in Multiple States
• Energy Professionals, LLC Seeks New License
Ohio Edison Company, The Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company, and The Toledo Edison Company have informed the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio that, absent an order from PUCO insulating them from economic harm, the electric distribution companies do not plan to offer any potential energy efficiency and peak demand reduction (EE&PDR) into the 2015/2016 PJM Base Residual Auction
A proposed decision in Consumers Energy's electric rate case would adopt a revenue decoupling mechanism (RDM) which differentiates between power supply and distribution revenues, and the draft would also decline to re-introduce a choice incentive mechanism at this time
Connecticut PURA Directs Retail Supplier to Address Complaints, Allegations of "Deceptive" Tactics
The Connecticut PURA has directed a retail supplier to respond to several questions regarding a recent increase customer complaints, including allegations that the supplier's representatives have stated that they were employees of Connecticut Light & Power or United Illuminating
• OnDemand Energy Solutions Launches Affinity Program with Council of Smaller Enterprises
• Duke Energy Ohio Files at FERC to Separate Generation Assets
• Ohio Power Files Again to Remove Generating Assets from Utility
April 2
Details of Summer Energy, LLC Change in Control Emerge
Summer Energy Holdings, Inc., formerly known as Castwell Precast Corporation, has completed a transaction with retail electric provider Summer Energy, LLC, pursuant to which Summer Energy Holdings, Inc. has acquired all of the outstanding units of membership interest in Summer Energy, LLC in exchange for the issuance to the holders of such units of membership interest of 9,697,624 shares of its $0.001 par value common stock
Dayton Power and Light Seeks to Implement Market Rate Offer
On March 30, Dayton Power and Light applied at PUCO to implement a Market Rate Offer (MRO) to govern the procurement and pricing of the Standard Service Offer starting January 1, 2013
AEP Ohio Modified ESP Includes Base Generation Rate Freeze, Limits on Discounted Capacity
On March 30, AEP Ohio submitted a modified electric security plan to govern the pricing and procurement of default service for the period starting June 1, 2012 that would freeze non-fuel base generation rates for three years, and which would limit the amount of capacity provided to retail suppliers at the Reliability Pricing Model (RPM) price
BGE Files New POR Discount Rates, Proposes Change to Calculation Methodology
Baltimore Gas & Electric has filed updated purchase of receivables discount rates with the Maryland PSC for both electric and natural gas service for the period starting July 1, and has recommended that the PSC modify the method for calculating the POR discount rate.
Potomac Edison Files to Increase Residential POR Discount Rate
Potomac Edison has filed updated purchase of receivables discount rates with the Maryland PSC, to take effect June 1.
ComEd Sees Marginal Increase in Growth Rate of Residential Shopping
Residential customers at Commonwealth Edison who have switched to a competitive supplier and completed at least one billing cycle on competitive supply increased by 50,000 accounts during the month of February, according to the latest statistics from the Illinois Commerce Commission
Young Energy, LLC d/b/a Payless Power asked that the Public Utility Commission of Texas deny a petition for emergency rulemaking from various customers who are seeking a prohibition on the installation of advanced meters and removal of already installed meters, or, alternatively, an ability for customers to decline the use of a smart meter (see 2/23)
FERC Approves Extension of Price Floor in Capacity Auction
FERC has approved the extension of the price floor in the ISO New England Forward Capacity Auction (FCA), and adopted a modification to the price floor
March 30
During February, the number of residential electric customers on competitive supply at Baltimore Gas & Electric declined, marking the end of 35 consecutive months of growth in residential shopping, according to the latest data from the Maryland PSC
Interstate Gas Supply Seeks to Serve New Service Area
Interstate Gas Supply, Inc. has sought an amendment to its natural gas supplier license to serve all customer classes at ...
Pennsylvania PUC Proposes to Add Conditions in Granting Expansion of Supplier's License
The Pennsylvania PUC yesterday issued a tentative order which would approve an expansion of Major Energy Services, LLC's natural gas supplier license, but which would also impose certain reporting conditions on Major Energy under the expansion
Palmco Energy Receives Expanded Supplier License
• Kinetic Energy Associates Receives New License
• Energy Solutions USA Receives New License
• HB Hayes & Associates Receives New License
• Coleman Hines, Inc. Receives New License
• Pa. PUC Dismisses Power Direct Broker Application Without Prejudice
• Pa. PUC Dismisses Evolving Energy Systems Broker Application Without Prejudice
AEP Ohio to File Modified Electric Security Plan Today
AEP Ohio confirmed in a news release this morning that it will file a modified electric security plan with the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio later today, as AEP Ohio had previously indicated.
The Maryland investor-owned electric distribution companies (EDCs) have informed the Maryland PSC that the existing draft contract for differences to be procured under the PSC's capacity RFP (see 9/30) poses serious risks to the EDCs and their customers if any awarded contracts become subject to litigation, which the EDCs noted is likely to occur.
Texas Industrials Warn on Costs, Discrimination Under ERCOT Pilot Projects
Any rules adopted by the Public Utility Commission of Texas granting ERCOT authority to conduct pilot projects to evaluate new and emerging technologies, "should make clear that any pilot project cannot result in unjustified cost to the market ... [and] should also explicitly reaffirm the statutory requirement that any pilot project be open to all market participants on a non-discriminatory basis," the Texas Industrial Energy Consumers said in comments to the PUCT
The Pennsylvania PUC has adopted a final order setting forth an interpretation of the Alternative Energy Portfolio Standards (AEPS) Act that permits the net metering of facilities even where not owned by the host customer (such as for financing reasons).
Texas Energy Aggregation Extends Agreement with City of Quanah
March 29
TXU SESCO Energy Services Now 4Change Energy Company
TXU SESCO Energy Services Company has undergone a change in name and corporate structure, it reported in an application to amend its Texas REP certificate.
PUC Rejects Proposed MXEnergy Settlement Agreement Regarding Marketing Practices
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) this morning rejected a proposed settlement agreement between the Commission's Law Bureau Prosecutory Staff (now the Bureau of Investigation and Enforcement) and MXEnergy, a PUC-licensed electric generation supplier, over the company's marketing practices
A group of Independent Electric Generation Suppliers (EGSs) has recommended that the Pennsylvania PUC adopt an anonymous enforcement hotline, and require disgorgement for any violations of the code of conduct governing relations between electric distribution companies (EDCs) and retail suppliers
Verde Energy Receives License in New State
• American PowerNet Management Seeks License in New State
• The DC Project Now Groundswell, Inc.
Number of Residential Customers on Competitive Supply Falls at PPL
The number of residential electric customers on competitive supply decreased at PPL during the most recent week, continuing the trend of see-sawing marginal growth and marginal decline seen during the past month
PUCO Confirms Use of Unblended Fuel Rates at AEP Ohio
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio ordered AEP Ohio to use unblended Fuel Adjustment Clause (FAC) rates for its former Ohio Power and Columbus Southern Power territories for the second quarter of 2012
New Hampshire Approves New Default Service Rates for Granite State Electric
The New Hampshire PUC has approved new default service rates at Granite State Electric Company d/b/a National Grid for residential and small commercial customers for the period May 1, 2012 through October 31, 2012, and for medium and large commercial and industrial customers for the period May 1, 2012 through July 31, 2012
Maine PUC Directs BHE to Remove Contract Extension Language from Pilot Relying on Retail Supplier
The Maine PUC ordered Bangor Hydro-Electric to remove certain language regarding the extension of a contract between a customer and the BHE-selected retail supplier offering dynamic pricing, but otherwise approved the BHE dynamic rate trial which will be conducted through a competitive supplier
• GDF SUEZ Approaches International Power With Possible Offer to Acquire Remaining Shares
• PUC Approves New Supply Rates at Citizens'/Wellsboro
• From the Archives: Maryland Electric Migration Data for January
March 28
Viridian Energy Sets Launch Date for Massachusetts Entry
Viridian Energy announced today the launch date of June 1, 2012 for electric service in Massachusetts, which will be Viridian's seventh state.
Exelon Energy and FirstEnergy Solutions, in separately filed comments, have protested the Pennsylvania PUC's proposed rule [§ 54.122(3)(v)] that an electric generation supplier, "may not have the same or substantially similar name or fictitious name as the electric distribution company or its corporate parent."
Vanguard Energy Services Seeks Expanded License
• Draft Would Grant License to Plymouth Rock Energy
• New Trade Name Approved for TERM Power & Gas
• Utilities Analyses, Inc. Receives License
Adopted Settlement Continues NIPSCO Choice Program Indefinitely, Includes Enhancements
The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission has approved a settlement which renews NIPSCO's alternative regulatory plan, and associated natural gas choice program, and extends the plan indefinitely.
National Grid Files New Basic Service Rates in Massachusetts
National Grid has filed in Massachusetts new basic service rates for the periods May 1, 2012 through October 31, 2012 for residential and commercial Basic Service customers and May 1, 2012 through July 31, 2012 for industrial Basic Service customers.
10K Energy to Pay $20,000 to Settle PUCT Staff Compliance Audit
10K Energy, L.L.C. would pay $20,000 under a settlement with PUCT Staff to resolve allegations that 10K Energy was not in full compliance with 20 provisions of the Substantive Rules
March 27
Texas Load Interests Seek Expanded Demand Ratchet Waiver
Exemption from the demand ratchet should be expanded from the level currently contained in a Public Utility Commission of Texas proposal for publication, several load interests said in comments to the PUCT
Utilities Say Pennsylvania Customer List Obligation Ended in 2004
The obligation of Pennsylvania natural gas distribution companies to provide updated customer lists to retail suppliers ended January 1, 2004, several distribution companies said in response to a petition for a declaratory order from retail suppliers
Staff Supports 80 MW Cap for Initial Competitive Generation Service Tariff at Entergy Texas
Participation in Entergy Texas Inc.'s competitive generation service (CGS) tariff should be capped at 80 MW, Staff of the Public Utility Commission of Texas said in a statement of position
Conn. Draft Would Adopt NU/Nstar Merger Settlement Without Modification
A draft Connecticut PURA decision would approve, without modification, a settlement agreement among Northeast Utilities, Nstar, the Office of Consumer Counsel, and the Attorney General, and would approve the merger of NU and Nstar
Comverge to be Acquired by Affiliate of H.I.G. Capital
Comverge, Inc. has entered into an agreement to be acquired by an affiliate of H.I.G. Capital, LLC, a global private investment firm, for approximately $49 million in equity value
FirstEnergy Solutions Corp. has filed a complaint at FERC concerning PJM rules governing the Auction Revenue Right (ARR) allocation process for transmission facilities that have been modeled as out-of-service for the entire year but which return to service for one or more months
Ontario Energy Board Increases Universe of Costs Assigned to Retail Suppliers
The Ontario Energy Board has revised its cost assessment model to assess the appropriate share of direct and indirect costs to electricity retailers and gas marketers, to be phased in over five years starting April 1, 2013
March 26
Town Square Energy to Acquire Community Power & Utility License, Contracts
Community Power & Utility LLC has petitioned the Connecticut PURA for approval to transfer its retail electric supplier license to Twin Cities Power, LLC d/b/a Town Square Energy
North American Power Launches Service in New Territories
North American Power has begun offering residential electric service at Duke Energy Ohio and Dayton Power & Light.
Proposed Illinois Order Would End Subsidies in ComEd Supply Rates for Space Heating Customers
A proposed order from an Illinois ALJ would establish a process to remove subsidies to residential customers with electric space heating under Commonwealth's Edison supply rates
Santanna Energy Services Seeks New License
• New Name Approved for Reliant Energy Texas Retail, LLC
• US Retailers LLC Receives Amended REP Certificate
NRG Energy to Install EV Charging Network in California Under Litigation Settlement
The California Public Utilities Commission and NRG Energy have entered into an agreement, to resolve litigation relating to a 2001 energy crisis electricity contract, under which NRG will build a comprehensive electric vehicle (EV) charging network in California, investing approximately $100 million over the next four years
People's Counsel: Retail Suppliers with Multiple Offers Must Post All Prices Online
Retail suppliers in Maryland with multiple price and product offerings should be required to list each offering online in order to meet statutory requirements, the Office of People's Counsel said in comments to the PSC
• Liberty Power Announces Lowest 12-Month Rate at ComEd Not Requiring Online Enrollment
• Constellation Awarded GSA Contract
March 23
A non-unanimous stipulation concerning the transition of Sharyland Utilities' former Cap Rock service areas to retail competition would randomly assign customers not making an affirmative selection to a default REP, and would limit eligibility to serve in the default REP role to the 15 largest REPs in ERCOT, by market share
Residential Customers on Competitive Supply Grows at PPL During Most Recent Week
The number of residential customers on competitive supply at PPL rebounded in the most recent week, ending several weeks in which the territory had been experiencing a net loss in residential shoppers.
Smart Energy, LLC Receives License to Serve Small Volume Customers
• Frozen Glory Energy Group Receives New License
• Sentry Energy Management Services Receives New License
• Utilities Analyses, Inc. Seeks New License
ComEd: Half of Residential Customers to Switch by Year-End
Commonwealth Edison said today that it estimates that approximately half of residential customers could switch to an alternative retail electric supplier by the end of the year
KEMA Residential Survey Finds Choice Awareness Outpacing Switch Rates, Cites Market Potential
"[S]ignificant market potential" still exists for retail suppliers to explore in residential power markets across the United States, despite recent increases in residential switching, DNV KEMA Energy & Sustainability said yesterday, based on its second annual Residential Power Choice Survey.
Vista Energy Marketing Offering Service in Nebraska
Vista Energy Marketing announced that it will be participating in the upcoming enrollment period for the Nebraska Choice Gas program managed by Source Gas
The California PUC has directed Pacific Gas & Electric, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas & Electric to enter into contract negotiations with Calpine for Calpine to maintain operation of the Sutter Energy Center, with costs recovered via nonbypassable charge
North American Power Reports Maryland Enrollments During January, February
North American Power has filed with the Maryland PSC its compliance report for the months of January and February, which lists the number of customers enrolled in Maryland during the months
Viridian Energy Reports Maryland Enrollments During January, February
Viridian Energy has filed with the Maryland PSC its compliance report for the months of January and February, which lists the number of customers enrolled in Maryland during the months
March 22
PUCT Likely to Increase Power Balance Penalty Curve for July 1, 2012
The PUCT intends to address an increase in the Power Balance Penalty Curve (PBPC), to be in place for this summer, at its next open meeting on April 12.
Strong Case Lacking for Substantial Changes to Pennsylvania Default Service Under Current Statute
No strong case is apparent for the Pennsylvania PUC's legal authority to substantially modify Pennsylvania's current default service model without legislative action, at least in the manner contained in two Staff discussion options, based on comments at a hearing on the end-state default service model held yesterday.
CMP Directed to Offer Dynamically Priced Standard Offer Product, Served by Retail Supplier
Central Maine Power will be required to offer a dynamically priced Standard Offer option, served by a retail supplier, under an order from the Maine PUC
AEP Seeks Higher Capacity Charge from Retail Suppliers at Indiana Michigan Power
Indiana Michigan Power Company (I&M), an AEP company, has sought FERC approval to charge a capacity rate other than the Reliability Pricing Model clearing price for capacity it provides to retail suppliers as the Fixed Resource Requirement entity
Gulf Oil LP announced today that it is now the official electricity supplier to Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox
• Unified Energy Alliance Receives New License
• Alternative Utility Services Seeks New License
• Incite Energy Seeks New License
• Acclaim Energy Advisors Seeks New License
• IDT Seeks to Serve All Illinois Territories
TXU Releases New Brighten iThermostat
TXU Energy has released a new Brighten iThermostat, a programmable thermostat that gives customers control over the temperature in their home through any web-enabled PC or smartphone.
Reliant Offering Customers Usage Through Green Button
Reliant said today that it is the first electricity retailer in Texas to provide its customers with usage information via the Green Button initiative
AEP Makes Official Notifications of Ohio, Texas Retirements
American Electric Power today made official notifications to regional reliability organizations PJM Interconnection and Southwest Power Pool (SPP) of the company's plan to retire more than 4,600 megawatts (MW) of coal-fueled power generation, primarily to comply with a series of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations
• Approved Illinois Opt-Out Aggregations Cover 1 Million Customers, Constellation Says
• Illinois Opens Proceeding on Certifying Installers of EV Charging Stations
March 21
Michigan Bill Would Raise Choice Cap to Equivalent of 20%, with Additional Future Increases
A bill has been introduced into the Michigan House, with companion legislation to be filed in the Senate, to raise Michigan's electric choice cap
Blue Pilot Energy Offering Residential Service in New Territory
Blue Pilot Energy has begun offering residential electricity service in ...
Vista Energy Marketing Enters New Market
Vista Energy Marketing has begun serving Source Gas deregulated residential and business customers in Wyoming
Growth in Residential Customers on Competitive Supply Slows at BGE, Pepco
The growth in the number of residential electric customers on competitive supply at Baltimore Gas & Electric and Pepco slowed during January, but increased at Potomac Edison, according to the latest stats from the Maryland PSC
Voters Approve Most Illinois Opt-Out Aggregations; But Significant Number Rejected
Most opt-out municipal aggregations on the March 20 ballot in Illinois were approved by voters, however, a significant number of measures were defeated, including, most notably, measures in Joliet, Bloomington, and Normal
HOP Energy Receives License in New State
• Start-up Energy 95 LLC Seeks Supplier License
• Summit Power Brokers Seeks New License
• Secure Energy Solutions Seeks New License
TriEagle Energy to Pay $36,000 to Settle PUCT Staff Compliance Audit
TriEagle Energy L.P. would pay $36,000 under a settlement with PUCT Staff to resolve allegations that TriEagle Energy was not in full compliance with 19 provisions of the Substantive Rules
• Ameren Energy Marketing Launches New Brand to Cater to Municipal Aggregations
• From the Archives: Ohio Gas Migration Data as of Dec. 31
March 20
The New York PSC has ordered Central Hudson Gas & Electric to make the necessary tariff changes to implement Weighted Average Cost of Capacity (WACOC) pricing for capacity released to retail suppliers required to accept mandatory assignment of capacity, and also approved Central Hudson's proposal to require all retail suppliers to take Winter Bundled Sales (WBS) Service as part of the retail access program
IDT Energy Seeks License in New State
• Plymouth Rock Energy Receives License in New State
• Calverton Consulting Receives New License
• RMI Consulting, Inc. Receives New License
Residential Migration Growth Jumps at JCP&L
The growth rate in the number of residential electric customers on competitive supply accelerated during February at Jersey Central Power & Light, but decreased at Public Service Electric & Gas, according to the latest data on the BGS auction website
N.Y. Orders Surcharge on ConEd Transportation Customers to Fund Refund to Full Service Customers
The New York PSC ordered Consolidated Edison to provide a refund to full service customers, funded by a surcharge on transportation customers, to make full service customers whole for prior under-deliveries by transportation customers due to an error in the lost and unaccounted for gas (LAUF) calculation
Connecticut Light & Power Posts February Migration Data
Connecticut Light & Power has posted migration statistics as of February 29, 2012
RESA Says Earlier Start to Higher N.J. RPS Would Create Competitive Advantage for BGS Suppliers
Any increase in the New Jersey solar RPS requirement should come into effect in Energy Year (EY) 2016 so as to not perpetuate the current competitive disadvantage imposed on competitive retail electric suppliers with respect to solar RPS compliance, the Retail Energy Supply Association said in comments on an Office of Clean Energy Staff straw proposal.
• TransCanada Power Marketing Joins RESA
• AEP Ohio to Hold Stakeholder Forum on Modified ESP
• From the Achieves: Massachusetts Migration Data for January
March 19
Critical Peak Rebates at BGE, Pepco Will Not be Limited to SOS Customers
Baltimore Gas & Electric and Pepco-Maryland will make their critical peak rebate programs available to all distribution customers within eligible customer classes, not only Standard Offer Service customers, under a consensus program design contained in a Maryland dynamic pricing working group report
Constellation Energy Selling Electricity at Best Buy
Constellation Energy is now selling retail electricity through Best Buy
Direct Energy Launches New Dynamic Pricing Products for Residential Customers
Direct Energy has launched several new dynamic pricing products for residential customers at PPL Electric Utilities
American Power Partners Launches Residential Service in New Territories
American Power Partners LLC has begun offering residential electricity supply at PECO and PPL Electric
Tara Energy States Intent to Expand Beyond Texas, Launches Promotions to Mark 10 Years of Service
Tara Energy is celebrating 10 years in business with the launch of several promotions and contests, and announced an intent to expand beyond Texas
• Shop My Power, Inc. Seeks New License
• Realgy Energy Services Seeks to Serve Residential Customers in New State
• Resource Energy Systems Receives New License
• Connect One Energy Receives New Licenses
Maine PUC Sets Standard Offer Rates
The Maine PUC has set the energy component for large non-residential Standard Offer rates at Central Maine Power and Bangor Hydro-Electric for the month of April
N.H. PUC Approves New Default Service Rates at Unitil
The New Hampshire PUC approved new default service rates for both large and mass market default service customers at Unitil Energy Systems, Inc. for the period beginning May 1, 2011
North American Power Officially Announces ComEd Entry
North American Power officially announced its ComEd residential entry this morning; the market entry was first reported by Matters on March 9
March 16
Pennsylvania PUC Withdraws Marketing Conditions from Supplier's License
On rehearing, the Pennsylvania PUC has withdrawn certain marketing and solicitation conditions, including a $50 cap on early termination fees, which were originally imposed on a retail electric supplier when the PUC granted the supplier its license
PJM Again Meddling in State Capacity Affairs; Questions Ohio Action on AEP Ohio Capacity Rate
Despite the clear and plain language of the PJM tariff, whose meaning has already been confirmed by FERC, PJM suggests that FERC has a role in determining the state compensation mechanism to price capacity provided by Fixed Resource Requirement entities to competitive retail suppliers
NOPEC Requests that PUCO Suspend License Application of Broker/Aggregator
The Northeast Ohio Public Energy Council (NOPEC) has asked the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio to suspend the application of Northeastern Ohio Residential Aggregation, Ltd. (NORA) for an electric broker/aggregator license
• RMI Consulting, Inc. Receives New License
• Burton Energy Group, Inc. Receives New License
• Customized Energy Solutions Receives New License
• Tobelmann Energy Brokers Receives New License
Texas Staff Files Draft Final Rule to Replace, Expand EILS
Staff of the Public Utility Commission of Texas has filed a draft proposal for adoption to adopt new Subst. R. 25.507 regarding ERCOT Emergency Response Service (ERS), a replacement of the current Emergency Interruptible Load Service, and which would expand the resources eligible to provide the service
PUCO Posts Winning Bidders from Dominion East Ohio SCO Auction
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio has released winning bidders from the recent Dominion East Ohio Standard Choice Offer auction
FERC Chairman Warns Suppliers on Market Manipulation
FERC Chairman Jon Wellinghoff made the following statement at yesterday's FERC open meeting concerning the settlement with Constellation Energy Commodities Group regarding a FERC investigation into market manipulation
Ontario Energy Board Staff Issues Bulletins on Consumer Protection Rules for Retail Suppliers
Staff of the Ontario Energy Board has issued several bulletins providing guidance on regulatory requirements and customer protection rules applicable to electricity retailers and gas marketers
PJM Independent Market Monitor Again Cites Inherent Market Power Under Capacity Market Design
Monitoring Analytics, LLC, the Independent Market Monitor (IMM or MMU) for PJM, has released the 2011 State of the Market Report for PJM.
March 15
PUCT Staff Proposes Criteria to Determine if Prepaid Rate Less than POLR Rate
Staff of the Public Utility Commission of Texas have filed a draft Proposal for Publication to establish the criteria for determining if prepaid electric service sold to residential customers is less than the price charged by the Provider of Last Resort, as required by the PURA §39.107(g), and to update the language regarding the POLR rate calculation to reflect the current practices and changes in terminology associated with the move to a nodal market in ERCOT
New TXU Energy Fixed Product Includes 50% Discount on Energy Charge for Initial Two Months
TXU Energy has launched a new product for ERCOT residential customers which applies a 50% discount to the energy charge for the first two months
Stream Energy to Expand Commercial Service to New States, Territories
Stream Energy announced this morning that it is expanding its commercial service footprint to include businesses in ...
Merchant Services Company Expanding to Energy Brokering
Banc Certified Merchant Services, LLC, d/b/a Certified Utility Services, has applied for Ohio electric and natural gas broker licenses
Number of Residential Customers on Competitive Supply Falls Again at PPL
The number of residential customers on competitive supply at PPL Electric Utilities has declined for a second consecutive week, continuing the pattern seen for most of 2012
Switch Holds Decline Significantly at CenterPoint, AEP Texas Central
The number of switch holds applicable to residential customers in ERCOT as part of entering into a deferred payment plan with a retail electric provider declined significantly during February, according to the latest reports filed with the PUCT.
An Ohio attorney examiner has established a procedural schedule to determine a state compensation mechanism for capacity provided by AEP Ohio to retail suppliers, while the Retail Energy Supply Association sought rehearing of PUCO's decision to grant AEP Ohio interim relief with respect to capacity provided to retail suppliers
• Cirro Energy Launches Redesigned Website
• ERCOT RMS to Hold Inadvertent Gain Workshop
• From the Archives: Ohio Electric Migration Data as of Dec. 31
March 14
Connecticut Says No Notice of Violation to be Issued Against Glacial Energy of New England, Inc.
The Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority today informed Glacial Energy of New England, Inc. that PURA would not issue a Notice of Violation against the company at this time
Connecticut Light and Power Files New Purchase of Receivables Discount Rate
Connecticut Light and Power has filed an update to the company-wide non-hardship average uncollectibles factor, which serves as the purchase of receivables discount rate
Partners New Energy Receives Texas REP Certificate
• MCENERGY Seeks New License
• Great Lakes Energy Receives New License
• Energy Management Services Seeks New License
Existing Resources Earning 93% of Capacity Payments in PJM, APPA Says
More than 93 percent of the total revenue paid by customers under the PJM Reliability Pricing Model has gone to the owners of existing power plants, the American Public Power Association said in a recent issue brief.
AEP Ohio Clarifies Treatment of Customers Under Prior Waiver of 90-Day Switching Notice Period
AEP Ohio has clarified how it will re-implement the 90-day switching rule and application of the 12-month minimum stay requirement in the wake of the rejection of its electric security plan
Maryland PSC Open to Short Extension of Date for Termination of Columbia Choice Program
The Maryland PSC deferred consideration of a date for the termination of Columbia Gas' choice program, as several commissioners appeared open to providing for a longer transition to allow the bulk of choice contracts to expire
Northeast Utilities, Nstar, the Connecticut Attorney General, and Connecticut Office of Consumer Counsel have filed a settlement under which the OCC and AG will support the companies' merger before PURA
March 13
IDT Energy to Enter Five New States; Customer Growth Slows
IDT Energy continued to experience net customer growth in the three months ended December 31, 2011, but at a much slower pace than seen earlier in the year
ChoosePAWind.com Requests That PECO Promote Website to Customers
ChoosePAWind.com, a website which promotes Pennsylvania-based wind energy to retail customers, has asked that PECO be required to promote the website as part of its electric default service plan
Hess Small Business Services Seeks New License
• Glacial Energy Seeks to Serve Residential Customers in New State
• Council on Northeast Energy Seeks License
• BKE Energy, Inc. Receives New License
DP&L Energy Offering Residential Electricity in New Territories
DP&L Energy has begun offering residential electric supply in two additional service areas, and now lists residential offers at ...
New Suppliers Offering Residential Gas Service at PECO
Two natural gas suppliers have begun offering residential service at PECO, and have been added to the Office of Consumer Advocate's pricing comparison
United Illuminating Posts February Migration Data
United Illuminating has posted electric migration statistics as of February 29, 2012
N.Y. Posts Migration Data for July, August
As first reported by Matters on December 6, New York electric migration statistics for the months of July and August 2011
March 12
FERC has approved a settlement between its Office of Enforcement and Constellation Energy Commodities Group (CCG) to resolve an investigation into whether Constellation violated the Commission's Anti-Manipulation Rule, under which Constellation has agreed to pay a civil penalty of $135 million and will disgorge unjust profits of $110 million, including interest.
Exelon, Constellation Complete Merger After FERC Approval
Exelon Corporation and Constellation Energy have completed their merger, effective today, in the wake of FERC's approval of the transaction on Friday
Major Energy Seeks License in New State
• HIKO Energy Seeks License in New State
• Sustainable Star Receives New License
• Entel, L.L.C. Receives New License
Duke Energy Retail Sales Listing Residential Offer in New Territory
Duke Energy Retail Sales has begun offering residential electricity supply at ...
Retail Suppliers Lower Residential Pricing at National Grid in Massachusetts
Several retail supplies have lowered pricing on their residential retail electric offers in the National Grid territory in Massachusetts
NYISO Calls Annual New Capacity Zone Process Unfeasible, Will Revisit Over Time
The New York ISO, "plans to revisit the possibility of evaluating the need for new capacity zones (NCZs) more frequently as it progresses through the first process cycle to evaluate and establish a new zone," but, at this time, believes that an annual examination and implementation of new capacity zones is not feasible
North American Power to Sponsor New York Yankees
North American Power announced today that it will be a sponsor of the New York Yankees during the 2012 season
March 9
MVC Capital Reviewing Strategic Alternatives to Monetize U.S. Gas & Electric Investment
MVC Capital, Inc., a publicly traded business development company that makes private debt and equity investments, today announced that U.S. Gas & Electric, Inc. an MVC portfolio company, has engaged a Tier I investment bank to lead the pursuit of strategic alternatives for USG&E to maximize shareholder value, including a public equity offering ...
North American Power Launches Service in New State
North American Power has begun offering residential electric supply at Commonwealth Edison
Illinois Approves Purchase of Uncollectibles at ComEd
The Illinois Commerce Commission has approved Commonwealth Edison's tariffs to implement Purchase of Uncollectibles, and will allow ComEd to charge retail suppliers a fee for start-up and administrative costs
RESA Seeks Review, Enhancements for Long Island Power Authority Choice Program
An audit of the Long Island Power Authority's management and operations should include an investigation of the operational steps and constructive policy actions LIPA should implement to restructure and reinvigorate its moribund "LI Choice" Program, the Retail Energy Supply Association said in comments to the New York PSC
Start-up Ardent Natural Gas Receives License
• MCENERGY Seeks New License
• Live Energy Receives New License
• Hospital Energy Services Receives New License
Residential Customers on Competitive Supply Again Declining at PPL
After a week in which PPL Electric saw its first increase in the number of residential customers on competitive supply in over a month, the territory has again experienced a net loss in residential shoppers in the most recent week, according to the latest stats from the Pennsylvania PUC
Staff Supports April End for Columbia Choice Program
Maryland PSC Staff has recommended that the Columbia Gas choice program cease with the April 2012 billing cycle, as proposed by Columbia.
• Algonquin Power to Acquire Wind Generation in Texas, Illinois, Pennsylvania
• Constellation Energy Signs Three-Year Deal with Eastern Bank
• CenterPoint Energy Houston Electric Announces REP Workshop
March 8
Connecticut-Based Supplier Community Power & Utility LLC to be Sold
Community Power & Utility LLC, a retail electric supplier based in Brookfield, Conn., informed FERC that it is in the process of selling itself
PUCO Sets Interim Capacity Charges for AEP-Ohio, Limiting Load at RPM Price
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) today established an interim two-tier capacity pricing system for AEP-Ohio. The interim capacity charges take effect immediately and will remain in place through May 31, 2012
Ampegy Expands to Non-Energy Offerings
Network marketer Ampegy announced today the expansion of its service offerings beyond electricity and natural gas
Stream Energy Expands to New Service Area
Stream Energy has expanded its service footprint in to now include ...
Suppliers Seek Declaratory Order from Pennsylvania PUC Regarding Customer Lists
Dominion Retail, Interstate Gas Supply, and Shipley Energy have petitioned the Pennsylvania PUC for an order declaring that natural gas distribution companies (NGDCs) continue to be responsible under the Commission's Regulations and Orders to provide customer lists to natural gas suppliers (NGSs) in their service territories upon request, and that such customer lists, "must include the complete information required by the Commission's orders, unless otherwise restricted by the customer."
Just Energy Begins Offering Residential Service in New Territory
Just Energy has begun offering residential electric service at ...
A report from two Maine hearing examiners would direct Bangor Hydro-Electric to remove certain language regarding the extension of a contract between a customer and the BHE-selected retail supplier offering dynamic pricing, but otherwise endorses the BHE dynamic rate trial which will be conducted through a competitive supplier
FirstEnergy Generation Files for Feasibility Study for 800 MW at Eastlake
FirstEnergy Generation Corp., a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp., has filed an application for a feasibility study with PJM Interconnection (PJM) to install and interconnect to the transmission system approximately 800 megawatts (MW) of new combustion turbine peaking generation at its existing Eastlake Plant in Eastlake, Ohio, to help ensure reliable electric service in the region
Illinois Report Says Legal Status of EV Charging Stations, Service Providers Unclear
The legal status of electric vehicle public charging stations is a key unresolved issue and will require legislation to clarify, says the Illinois Commerce Commission's Plug-In Electric Vehicle Initiative Report.
California Utilities File Plans for Provide Third Parties with Access to Customer Info
Consistent with a prior PUC decision, the large California investor-owned utilities have submitted plans to provide third-parties with access to customers' electricity usage data via the utility's backhaul, when authorized by the customer.
• PUCT Authorizes Increase in Oncor Commercial Load Management Program
• PUCT Exempts Storage from 4CP
• AEP Completes BlueStar Acquisition
• PUCO Adopts AEP Ohio ESP-I Tariffs
March 7
Texas Commissioners Propose Raising Offer Cap to At Least $7,500, Differ on Timeline
Public Utility Commission of Texas Chairman Donna Nelson and Commissioner Kenneth Anderson have both proposed raising the System Wide Offer Cap in ERCOT to as high as $7,500/MWh, but disagree on whether any incremental change should occur for the summer of 2012
Delmarva SOS Winning Bid Prices Decline for Small Customers, Increase for Large Customers
The residential and small commercial SOS portfolio at Delmarva Power in Delaware will see an 8% decline in price for the 2012-2013 delivery year, while prices for larger customers will increase from the prices in last year's auction, according to the auction report from Vantage Energy Consulting, LLC
Green Mountain Energy Receives License in New State
• Public Power, LLC Receives New License
• Vivint Receives New License
• TERM Power & Gas Seeks to Use New Trade Name in Texas
American Coalition of Competitive Energy Suppliers Launches Website
The American Coalition of Competitive Energy Suppliers (ACCES) has launched its website to educate customers about energy choice.
Energy Curtailment Specialists Says Texas NOV Should Be Dismissed
A PUCT Notice of Violation against Energy Curtailment Specialists, Inc. should be dismissed because ECS did not "wilfully (sic) and knowingly" violate PURA Sec. 39.151(d) and did not "wilfully (sic) and knowingly" intend for its loads not to curtail, ECS said in a list of issues prior to hearing
Texas Electric Complaints at Lowest Levels Since Market Open
The total volume of electric complaints filed by consumers with the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) in Calendar Year 2011 was the lowest level recorded since the competitive market opened in 2002, Regulatory Compliance Services said in an annual report
PJM Seeks Permanent Termination of Grunwald Fund as Member
PJM has filed revisions to its operating agreement to reflect the permanent termination of Grunwald Fund, LP as a PJM Member in accordance with Sections 15.1.6(c) and 4.1(c) of the operating agreement
March 6
AEP Ohio to Propose Nonbypassable Capacity Charge in Modified Electric Security Plan
AEP Ohio intends to file a modified electric security plan by March 30, 2012 that will include, among other things, a proposed nonbypassable generation charge addressing capacity
Some 36.7% of AEP Ohio's load has switched or the associated customers have indicated the intention to switch as of March 1, 2012, AEP Ohio said in a filing with PUCO in support of its request for relief from providing capacity to all competitive load at the RPM price
Toledo Edison Continues to See Decline in Number of Customers on Competitive Supply
For the second consecutive quarter, Toledo Edison has seen a net decline in the number of residential customers taking competitive supply, according to the latest stats from the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio
South Jersey Gas Sees Decline in Residential Customers on Competitive Supply
South Jersey Gas saw a decrease in the number of residential customers on competitive supply from the period October 2011 to January 2012, according to the latest stats form the New Jersey BPU.
Public Power, LLC Seeks Expanded License
• Best Power, LLC Seeks License
• NEP Energy Services, Ltd. Seeks License
• Early Bird Power Receives New Licenses
Ohio Sees Increase in Residential Gas Customers on Competitive Supply in All Areas
All of Ohio's natural gas distribution companies saw an increase in choice enrollments during the period from September 2011 to December 2011, according to the latest stats from the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio
FERC Rejects IMM Request to Limit Sellers' Ability to Justify Capacity Price Below Price Floor
FERC has rejected a request from the PJM Independent Market Monitor for "clarifications" to the PJM Minimum Offer Price Rule in the capacity market, as FERC found the request to be an untimely request for rehearing
Duke Energy Ohio Seeks Approval for PIPP Supplier, Reports Bids
Duke Energy Ohio, Inc. has asked the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio for authority to enter into an agreement with a supplier to provide competitive natural gas service to the company's Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) customers
• Maine PUC Discloses Supplier of Large Customer Standard Offer Load
• Energy Plus Holdings Announces Customer, Partner Milestones
• FirstEnergy Solutions Offering Lowest Fixed Rate at ComEd
March 5
Energy Company of America Launches Residential Service
Energy Company of America (ENCOA), a trade name of TERM Power & Gas, LLC, has begun offering residential electricity
Pennsylvania Posts Discussion Draft for End-State Default Service Model
The Pennsylvania PUC has posted a Staff discussion document concerning possible end-state designs of default electricity service
Pa. PUC: Retail Suppliers Must Pay Costs of Opt-in Auction, Referral Programs
Retail suppliers will be responsible for the costs of retail opt-in auctions and customer referral programs developed under a final intermediate workplan addressing the state's retail electric market, the Pennsylvania PUC ordered. Additionally, the PUC has ordered that the utility Price to Compare shall be listed on all utility bills, even those for customers on competitive supply
D.C. PSC to Examine Application of Pepco Minimum Stay Rule
The District of Columbia PSC will hear (in Formal Case 1097) a complaint brought by Liberty Power concerning the application of the 12-month minimum stay to non-residential customers returning to Pepco Standard Offer Service
Start-up Western Reserve Energy Services to Launch in Ohio
Start-up Western Reserve Energy Services, LLC has applied for an Ohio electric supplier license to serve all customer classes in all service areas
Dillon Energy Services Seeks New License
• Pennywise Power Legal Name Changed to US Retailers LLC
• Start-up Summit Power Brokers Seeks License
• Clear Choice Electricity Seeks New License
• MCENERGY Seeks New License
In response to Matter's March 2 story concerning MXenergy's decision to transfer post-pay customers in ERCOT to affiliate StarTex Power, and an audit settlement at the PUCT which made reference to the transfer, Constellation Energy issued the following statement to Matters
• Direct Energy Cites Cross-Sell Potential in Completing Acquisition of Home Warranty of America
• FERC Dismisses FirstEnergy Solutions FTR Complaint to Allow Further Stakeholder Investigation
• Connecticut Light & Power Files New Charges for Retail Supplier Services
• From the Archives: New Jersey Migration Data for January
March 2
Reliant Energy Texas Retail, LLC Changes Name, Adds Trade Name Independence Energy
Reliant Energy Texas Retail, LLC has sought an amendment to its Texas REP certificate to reflect a change in its legal name to Everything Energy, LLC.
MXenergy Ceases Post-Pay Enrollments in ERCOT, Transferring Customers to Affiliate StarTex Power
MXEnergy Electric Inc. has ceased enrolling new post-pay customers in the ERCOT market, and, starting on the first meter read after January 17, 2012, began transferring existing post-pay customers to affiliate StarTex Power
Joint Proposal Would Lower Hourly Pricing Cutoff at Orange & Rockland
The threshold for mandatory hourly pricing for default service customers at Orange and Rockland Utilities would decrease under a joint proposal from O&R, New York PSC Staff, and the New York Division of Consumer Protection
ERCOT has awarded the Request for Proposal to examine resource adequacy incentive factors to the Brattle Group, Inc.
PPL Sees First Net Increase in Residential Shopping in Weeks
PPL Electric Utilities has seen a net increase in the number of residential customers on competitive supply for the first time since late January, according to the latest statistics from the Pennsylvania PUC.
DTE Energy Supply Receives License to Serve Small Customers in New State
• Moxi Energy Advisors Receives New License
• American Enerpower Franchisor Receives New License
• Enercom, Inc. Receives New License
• Tybec Energy Management Specialists Receives New License
Massachusetts DPU Orders Utilities to Post Suppliers' Offers on Utility Websites
The Massachusetts DPU has directed the electric distribution companies to cure deficiencies in their compliance with a prior DPU order concerning the posting of competitive supplier information, including offer information, on the utilities' websites.
Consolidated Edison Seeks Declaratory Order on Application of Minimum Demand to MSC Capacity Charge
Consolidated Edison Company of New York, Inc. has petitioned the New York PSC for a declaratory ruling concerning its application of a Minimum Demand for the Market Supply Charge (MSC) capacity component.
Parties Seeks Report on California Direct Access Phase-In
Several direct access parties have petitioned the California PUC to direct the investor-owned utilities to report on the status of the most recent direct access Notice of Intent period, and to update their websites to reflect current room under the direct access cap
• BGE Enters Castlebridge Energy, Other Suppliers into XML Testing
• Sharyland Seeks Abatement to Finalize Settlement on Transition to Retail Choice
• Ohio Sets Workshop on Dynamic Pricing, Retail Supplier Obligations
• NRG Installing Distributed Generation at Lincoln Financial Field
• Spark Energy Renews St. Baldrick's Affinity Program
• New Retail Generation Rates for Pepco-DC Approved
March 1
Choice Energy Services Acquires Equus Retail
Choice Energy Services announced that it has acquired Equus Retail.
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio has ordered Cleveland Electric Illuminating, Ohio Edison, and Toledo Edison to take actions to mitigate expected capacity price increases in the Reliability Pricing Model due to the retirement of certain units owned by FirstEnergy's generation subsidiaries
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today finalized an intermediate work plan as part of its Retail Electricity Markets Investigation designed to improve the state's retail electricity market
ERCOT: Rotating Outages Not Expected Absent Extreme Heat, Higher than Normal Generation Outages
The Electric Reliability Council of Texas has released a preliminary summer resource adequacy assessment, in which ERCOT said that it will not likely need to issue rotating outages, unless there are a higher-than-normal number of forced generation outages or record-breaking weather conditions similar to last summer
Ohio Commission Directs Staff to Review Load Caps in Default Service Auctions
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio has decided to retain Duke Energy Ohio's current schedule and structure for its default service competitive bidding process, but directed Staff to monitor the experience with load caps in the auction.
PUCO Discloses Winning Bidders in Columbia Gas SCO Auction
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio has disclosed winning bidders from the recent Standard Choice Offer auction at Columbia Gas.
FirstEnergy Solutions Forecasts 400% Increase in Direct Retail Sales to Mass Market Customers
FirstEnergy Solutions is forecasting 6 TWh of direct retail sales to mass market customers (excluding government aggregation volumes) in 2012
CenterPoint Energy Services Reports Customer Growth
CenterPoint Energy, Inc.'s Competitive Natural Gas Sales and Services segment reported operating income of $3 million for the fourth quarter of 2011, compared to no operating income for the same period of 2010.
AEP Ohio Seeks Expedited FERC Action on Capacity Charge Complaint
FirstEnergy Solutions has opposed AEP Ohio's motion to reinstate the bifurcated capacity pricing mechanism applicable to retail suppliers, while AEP Ohio has asked FERC to expedite ruling on its complaint concerning the state compensation mechanism for capacity pricing
• Payless Power Launches Online Payment System
• STEC Unit Submits Notice of Suspension of Operations
• PPL Names David DeCampli to Lead Supply Segment
February 29
Reliant Sees Drop in Number of Mass Market Customers
Reliant Energy saw a net loss of 4,000 mass market customers from September 30, 2011 to December 31, 2011, NRG Energy disclosed in a 10-K
PUCO Approves New SCO Retail Price Adjustment at Dominion East Ohio
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio approved today a new Standard Choice Offer Retail Price Adjustment at Dominion East Ohio
Positive Energy Electricity Supply Reports New Jersey Customer Milestone
Positive Energy Electricity Supply LLC, the exclusive marketer for ResCom Energy LLC, announced that on February 24 it reached a milestone of ...
PSC Denies Rehearing on Termination of Columbia Choice Program
The Maryland PSC denied rehearing of its decision to terminate the choice program at Columbia Gas.
• RJT Energy Consultants Seeks New License
• Municipal Power Group Registers as N.H. Aggregator
AEP Ohio Files New Retail Rates, Tariffs
AEP Ohio has filed with PUCO its new retail generation rates resulting from PUCO's rejection of the electric security plan.
FirstEnergy Solutions Reports Increased Direct Retail Sales
Increased competitive retail sales directly to large and mass markets customers by FirstEnergy Solutions, net of the impact from changed pricing versus the year-ago, led to a $164 million improvement in commodity margin during the fourth quarter of 2011, FirstEnergy said in reporting earnings.
Integrys Energy Services Earnings Lifted by Higher Margins
Integrys Energy Services saw core earnings of $13.5 million for the fourth quarter of 2011, versus $6.9 million a year ago.
GenOn Announces 3,100 MW of Generation Deactivations
GenOn Energy, Inc. said today that it expects to deactivate 3,140 MWs of generating capacity in PJM between June 2012 and May 2015 because forecasted returns on investments necessary to comply with environmental regulations are insufficient
• Horizon Power and Light to Restart D.C. Marketing
• Constellation Surpasses 1 Million Residential Customers
• UI Reports Last Resort Service Supplier
• Maryland Approves Settlement Regarding EnerNOC Gap RFP Shortfall
February 28
Conn. PURA States Intent to Issue Notice of Violation Against Glacial Energy of New England, Inc.
The Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority in a letter to Glacial Energy of New England, Inc. issued this morning indicated that it will issue a Notice of Violation and Assessment of Civil Penalty against Glacial Energy of New England, Inc. later this week
Reliant Customer Count Declines Marginally During Fourth Quarter
Reliant Energy saw a net decrease in customer count during the final three months of 2011, versus the total as of September 30, 2011, parent NRG Energy said in reporting earnings this morning
PUCT Staff Recommend Denial of AEP Retail Energy Application to Serve Texas Customers Under 1 MW
The application of AEP Texas Commercial & Industrial Retail Limited Partnership for an amendment to its Texas REP certificate, to allow it to serve customers under 1 MW using the trade name AEP Retail Energy, should be denied, Staff of the Public Utility Commission of Texas said in a post-hearing brief
AEP Ohio Seeks to Deny Customers, Retail Suppliers Discounted Capacity Despite PUCO Order
Notwithstanding a Public Utilities Commission of Ohio order revoking approval of a non-unanimous stipulation governing AEP Ohio's electric security plan (ESP), including terms relating to the capacity charge applicable to retail suppliers, AEP Ohio is seeking to implement the terms of the now rejected stipulation and charge higher capacity prices for competitive load above stipulated volume thresholds
DPL Energy Resources Serving 87% of Competitive Volumes at Affiliate Dayton Power & Light
During the year ended December 31, 2011, approximately 13% of customers representing 47% of 2011's overall energy usage (kWh) within Dayton Power & Light's service area had elected to obtain their supply service from a competitive retail electric supplier, parent The AES Corporation said in a 10-K
The Maryland Office of People's Counsel has asked the Maryland PSC to address several questions, including pending issues regarding whether non-employee agents of licensed suppliers or brokers require their own license (in Case 9245), prior to addressing the electric broker application of Vivint, Inc., and presumably and similarly situated brokers
Maryland PSC Opens Formal Rulemaking on Supplier Online Price Disclosure Requirements
The Maryland PSC has opened a formal rulemaking (RM 46) to address minimum disclosure requirements to govern the obligation of electricity and gas suppliers to post on the internet information regarding services and rates for small commercial and residential gas and electric customers
• Summerview Energy Seeks New License
• City Fuel Company Seeks New License
• APPI Energy Receives New License
• Telco Pros, Inc. Receives New License
Maryland PSC Staff Oppose Rehearing of Columbia Gas Choice Program Termination
Staff of the Maryland PSC has recommended that the Commission deny requests for rehearing of the PSC's decision to terminate the Columbia Gas choice program
February 27
Bounce Energy Seeking License in New State
• HIKO Energy Seeks License in New State
• Kinetic Energy Associates Seeks Pennsylvania License
• Great Lakes Energy Seeks New License
Oregon PUC to Open Docket on Direct Access Rules, Procedures
The Oregon PUC agreed to open a docket to address generic issues relating to direct access
ComEd Sees Increase in Growth Rate of Residential Shopping
Residential customers at Commonwealth Edison who have switched to a competitive supplier and completed at least one billing cycle on competitive supply increased by about 45,000 accounts during the month of January, according to the latest statistics from the Illinois Commerce Commission
Fitchburg Gas & Electric Sees First Significant Residential Migration
In January, Fitchburg Gas & Electric saw its first significant number of residential electric accounts served under competitive supply, according to the latest data from the Massachusetts DPU.
PPL Acquiring Combined Cycle Plant from AES
PPL Corporation announced this morning that PPL Generation, LLC, its competitive generation subsidiary, agreed to acquire AES Ironwood, L.L.C. and AES Prescott, L.L.C., which together own and operate the 705-megawatt AES Ironwood combined-cycle natural gas-fired power plant in Lebanon, Pa., from a subsidiary of The AES Corporation
Alberta Government to Address Volatility, Cost of Regulated Rate Option
Alberta Premier Alison Redford has introduced a plan to help address, "both the volatility and costs associated with electricity," and to improve access to fixed-rate contracts.
Georgia Power Opposes Bill It Says Would Introduce Deregulation to Georgia
Georgia Power has opposed a bill before the Georgia legislature which it said amounts to deregulation
February 24
Sperian Energy Begins Offering Residential Service in New Territory
Sperian Energy Corp. has begun offering residential electric service at ...
Ambit Energy Seeks Gas License in New State
• GDF Suez Retail Energy Solutions Receives New License
• Start-up Northeastern Ohio Residential Aggregation Seeks Aggregator License
PUCT Chair Nelson "Definitely In Favor" of Raising System Wide Offer Cap
PUCT Chair Donna Nelson is, "definitely in favor of increasing the System Wide Offer Cap" and "tweaking" the Power Balance Penalty Curve, Nelson said during a resource adequacy workshop held by the Commission yesterday
PSEG Forecasts Higher Migration to Competitive Supply in N.J.
Customer migration away from Basic Generation Service in New Jersey negatively impacted fourth quarter earnings at PSEG Power by $10 million, parent Public Service Enterprise Group reported yesterday
AGL Retail Supply Earnings Lower on Weather
AGL Resources' retail energy operations segment, which now consists of SouthStar Energy Services, and for 22 days in 2011, several Nicor retail energy businesses, reported lower EBIT of $93 million for the year 2011, versus $103 million a year ago.
Texas Electricity Ratings Updates REP Scoring, Champion Energy Ranked #1
Website TexasElectricityRatings.com has updated its ranking of ERCOT retail electric providers, and Champion Energy Services has been ranked first
CMS Energy's Russell: "No Interest" from Gov. Snyder in Changing Choice Cap
John Russell, president and chief executive officer of CMS Energy and subsidiary Consumers Energy, told investors yesterday that there is "no interest" from Gov. Rick Snyder in taking on energy legislation to change PA 286 which passed in 2008, which, among other things, instituted a 10% cap on electric choice volumes
PUCT Reverses ERCOT Resettlement Related to De-energized Buses
The PUCT yesterday granted an appeal brought by two financial marketers concerning ERCOT's decision to resettle Operating Days December 1, 2010 through February 1, 2011, reversing the ERCOT Board decision to resettle the LMPs and settlement price points
• Texas Customers Formally Petition for Advanced Meter Opt-Out Rulemaking
• APPI Energy Selected by Independent Community Bankers of America as Preferred Service Provider
• From the Archives: Maryland Migration Data for December
February 23
CHAOS: PUCO Pulls Approval for AEP Ohio Electric Security Plan
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) this morning disapproved AEP-Ohio's electric security plan (ESP) as it was outlined in a settlement agreement submitted by 21 of 31 parties to the case, and initially approved by PUCO, with modifications, in December.
Direct Energy Reports Higher Operating Profit on Acquisitions, Customer Growth
Direct Energy today announced operating profit for the full year 2011 of $500 million, up 38 percent from the year-ago $362 million.
Residential Customers Continue to Leave Competitive Supply at PPL
PPL continues to experience a net decline in the number of residential customers taking competitive supply, according to the latest statistics from the Pennsylvania PUC
Penelec and New York PSC Staff have filed a joint proposal under which Penelec will move to market-based default service rates effective June 1, 2012, with the rate increases mitigated in a competitively neutral manner
Trademark Merchant Energy Seeks Texas REP Certificate
• Topco Associates Receives New License
Champion Energy Names Director for Natural Gas Marketing Expansion
Scott Fordham, president and chief executive officer, this morning formally announced that Champion Energy, LLC recently filed an application with the Illinois Commerce Commission seeking authority to offer retail natural gas service to residential and small commercial customers in the State of Illinois.
February 22
PPL Price to Compare to Fall for Residential, Small Business Customers
PPL Electric Utilities announced yesterday that the Price to Compare for both residential and small business customers will fall effective March 1.
Hess Introduces Comprehensive Energy Solutions Unit
Hess Corporation this morning announced the launch of Hess Energy Solutions, offering comprehensive energy services for commercial, industrial and institutional customers
Website Launches to Market Wind Energy to Pennsylvania Retail Customers
A new website devoted to promoting Pennsylvania-based wind power includes the opportunity for customers to find a retail supplier of wind energy
Calif. Proposed Order Sees No Need for New Generation, Would Refine Utility vs. RFO Rules
A proposed California PUC decision would find that there is no need for additional generation by 2020 at this time, and would refine the process to compare competitive offers to build new generation with utility owned generation
• Utilities Analyses Seeks Licenses in Multiple States
• Frozen Glory Energy Group to Expand Beyond Texas
• BKE Energy Seeks New License
DTE Energy CEO "Feel[s] Good" About Political Climate Concerning Choice Legislation
Gerard Anderson, DTE Energy's chairman, president and CEO, said during an earnings call last week that he, "feel[s] good about the political climate," concerning the potential to expand the current 10% electric choice cap
• Champion Energy Launches Affinity Program with Houston Animal Shelter
• Pricelock Launches Mobile App for Online Energy Auctions
• From the Archives: Massachusetts Electric Migration Data for December
February 21
Flash: TXU Residential Churn 33,000 for Quarter, Cites "Unsustainable" Pricing in Market
TXU Energy saw improvement in its net residential churn during the three months ended December 31, 2011, but net residential churn was still 33,000 customers.
Residential Migration to Competitive Gas Supply Up in All Maryland Service Areas
Residential migration to competitive natural gas supply increased during the last quarter of the year at all of Maryland's utilities with residential choice programs, according to the latest stats from the PSC
Residential Migration Slows in New Jersey
The growth in the number of residential electric customers on competitive supply in New Jersey slowed during the month of January, according to the latest stats on the BGS auction website
• Calverton Consulting Seeks New License
• Land's Energy Service Receives New License
• EnerNOC Receives New Broker License
• SourceOne Receives New License
Switch Holds Decline at Oncor, CenterPoint
January marked the first month that Oncor, CenterPoint Energy Houston Electric, and AEP Texas Central Company have seen a net decline in the total number of switch holds applicable to residential customers as part of entering into a deferred payment plan with a retail electric provider, according to the latest reports filed with the PUCT
PUCT Staff Proposal Would Assign Ancillary Service Costs to Storage
PUCT Staff have filed a draft proposal for adoption for rules concerning energy storage, including a change from the proposal for publication concerning storage's obligation to share in the cost of ancillary services
Fortis to Acquire Central Hudson Gas & Electric, Parent
CH Energy Group, Inc., the parent of Central Hudson Gas & Electric, announced this morning that it has entered into a definitive merger agreement with Fortis Inc., under which Fortis will acquire CH Energy Group for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $1.5 billion, including the assumption of approximately $500 million of debt
February 20
Maine PUC Uses Alternative Default Service Mechanism for Large Classes at CMP, BHE
The Maine PUC has established an alternative process to establish Standard Offer rates for the large non-residential classes at Central Maine Power and Bangor Hydro-Electric, and also set prices for the month of March
Central Hudson Updates POR Discount Rate
Central Hudson Gas & Electric has filed an updated purchase of receivables discount rate with the New York PSC.
Maryland PSC Adds Market Power Conditions in Approving Exelon-Constellation Merger
The Maryland PSC conditionally approved the merger of Exelon and Constellation Energy on Friday, with additional provisions relating to market power.
Decline in Residential Customers on Competitive Supply Continues at PPL
PPL again saw a net decline in the number of customers taking competitive supply, according to the latest statistics from the Pennsylvania PUC.
Constellation's NewEnergy Segment Reports Higher Adjusted Earnings for Full Year
Constellation's NewEnergy segment reported adjusted earnings, excluding mark-to-market timing, of approximately $171 million for the year 2011, up from adjusted earnings, excluding mark-to-market timing, of $155 million a year ago.
Connecticut Light & Power Posts January Migration Data
Connecticut Light & Power has posted migration statistics as of January 31, 2012
Champion Energy Services Announces Contract with Champaign County Chamber Co-op
Champion Energy Services, through its partnership with Branded Retail Energy Company, announced this morning that it has recently completed a multi-year electricity aggregation contract with over 150 business members of the Champaign County (Illinois) Chamber of Commerce Energy Cooperative
Hudson Energy Launches New Commercial Sales Partner Portal
Hudson Energy, a Just Energy company, has launched a new portal for its Commercial Sales Partners, called Hudson Connex
FirstEnergy Solutions Launches New AEP Ohio Residential Offer
FirstEnergy Solutions on Friday announced a new offer available to residential electric customers at AEP Ohio, open to the first 15,000 customers who enroll by March 31, 2012
February 17
Champion Energy Expanding to Retail Natural Gas
Champion Energy, LLC is expanding to retail natural gas service.
Entel Seeks Broker License
Gulf Electricity Begins Posting Residential Offers
Gulf Oil Limited Partnership d/b/a Gulf Electricity has begun posting residential electric offers on the CT Energy Info rate board
Connecticut Light & Power Posts New Default Service Rates
Connecticut Light & Power has posted new Last Resort Service rates for the three-month period beginning April 1, 2012
Vectren Posts Winners of Recent SCO Auction
Vectren Energy Delivery of Ohio has posted winners of its recent Standard Choice Offer auction
Winning Bidders of FirstEnergy Ohio Auction Revealed
Consistent with prior direction from PUCO, CRA International submitted an unredacted list of winning bidders in the FirstEnergy Ohio utilities' default service auction held in January
PUCT Staff File Draft to Allow ERCOT to Conduct Pilot Projects for New Technologies
PUCT Staff have filed a draft Proposal for Publication to amend P.U.C. SUBST. R. 25.361 in order to give ERCOT the authority to conduct pilot projects to evaluate new and emerging technologies, such as energy storage projects, to determine the benefits that these technologies may bring to the ERCOT system
Duke Expects Lower Earnings from Retail Unit in 2012
Duke Energy Retail contributed about $67 million to adjusted earnings at parent Duke for the year 2011, executives reported yesterday
D.C. Approves Horizon Power & Light Remedial Action Plan
The District of Columbia PSC approved Horizon Power & Light's proposed action plan to resolve a request by the Office of People's Counsel for an investigation of Horizon given certain customer complaints (see 11/22).
D.C. PSC Opens Case to Review Electric Vehicle Rate Issues
The District of Columbia PSC opened Formal Case 1096 to review issues related to electric vehicles
FERC Approves CAISO Capacity Procurement Mechanism Settlement Which Features New Pricing
FERC approved a settlement adjusting the capacity price under the California ISO's Capacity Procurement Mechanism (CPM), and other terms of the mechanism
FERC Retains More Stringent HHI Values for Market Power Assessment
FERC has decided to retain its existing policies regarding the analysis of horizontal market power when reviewing transactions under section 203 of the Federal Power Act and in its electric market-based rate program
February 16
Columbia Gas Proposes Date for End of Choice Program
Columbia Gas has filed a transition plan to end its choice program, and move customers back to sales service.
Constellation Energy Begins Offering Residential Service at Penn Power
Constellation Energy has begun offering residential electric supply at Penn Power
United Illuminating Posts New Default Service Rates
United Illuminating has posted new Last Resort Service rates for the three month period beginning April 1, 2012.
Green Mountain Energy Receives License to Serve Residential Customers in New State
• City of Cincinnati Applies for Governmental Aggregator Licenses
• TMG Energy Source Receives New License
• Belden Energy Solutions Receives New License
SCANA Energy Reports Customer Growth Versus September 30 Total
SCANA Energy reported earnings of $24 million for the year 2011, compared to $31 million in 2010, parent SCANA Corporation said yesterday.
UBS: Frank-Dodd End-User Exemption Less of a Possibility
The Commodity Futures Trading Commission's desire to assert jurisdiction over power markets suggests that a broad end-user exemption from the Frank-Dodd regulations for the energy sector, "is less of a possibility," analysts at UBS Securities said in a research note to clients.
Nstar, NU Reach Merger Agreement with DOER, Attorney General
Nstar and Northeast Utilities said yesterday that they have reached separate, comprehensive merger-related agreements with both the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER) and the Massachusetts Attorney General
• WGES Names Melanie Santiago-Mosier Director of Regulatory and Legislative Affairs
• From the Archives: Calif. Posts Draft on Rules Governing Utility Behavior Toward Community Choice Aggregation
February 15
Pennsylvania ALJ: Market Conditions Warrant Greater Hedging of Default Service Supplies
Default service plans should reflect currently depressed market prices, and should hedge to protect against a "major increase in energy prices" -- those are the conclusions contained within a recommended decision from a Pennsylvania ALJ
SCO Retail Price Adjustment Approved at Columbia Gas
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio has approved the results of the Standard Choice Offer auction at Columbia Gas, which assigned non-shopping, choice-eligible customers to a specific retail supplier for the period April 1, 2012 through March 31, 2013
PUCO Ends Use of SSO Auction at Dominion East Ohio
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio has approved a stipulation at Dominion East Ohio which will eliminate the Standard Service Offer (SSO) auction
Clearview Electric Receives License in New State
• YEP Energy to be Licensed in New State
Patriot Energy Group Seeks New License
United Illuminating Reports January Migration Data
United Illuminating has posted electric migration statistics as of January 31, 2012
PUCO Denies FirstEnergy Solutions' Petition for Additional Market Enhancements at DP&L
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio has denied FirstEnergy Solutions' requested retail market enhancements at Dayton Power & Light.
NEM Supports Rehearing Request Regarding Termination of Columbia Choice Program
The National Energy Marketers Association filed comments in support of a rehearing request regarding the Maryland PSC's decision to end the choice program at Columbia Gas (see 1/9).
FirstEnergy Solutions Seeks Order Requiring AEP Ohio to Provide Capacity, GS-2 Credit Information
FirstEnergy Solutions has petitioned the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio to compel AEP Ohio to comply with certain provisions of the adopted AEP Ohio electric security plan, specifically concerning the information provided to competitive retail suppliers regarding discounted capacity and GS-2 credits
February 14
Interstate Gas Supply Begins Offering Electric Supply in New State
Interstate Gas Supply has begun offering residential electric service in ...
Energetix Offering Residential Electric Supply in New Territory
Energetix has begun offering residential electric supply at ...
Border Energy Electric Services Offering Residential Electric Supply in New Territory
Border Energy Electric Services, Inc. has expanded its residential electric marketing to ...
Nstar to Lower Basic Service Rates
Nstar said this morning that large customers in the Boston area would see the cost of basic service fall by 34% under new rates filed with the DPU.
• Start-up Connect One Energy Seeks Broker Licenses
• InSource Power Receives New License
• Rate Droppers Receives New License
• Energy Atlantic Relinquishes Supplier License
Report: Non-utility Firms Not Interested in Maryland Electric Vehicle Pilot
Non-utility stakeholders have not expressed interest in submitting a proposal for Maryland's electric vehicle pilot program, a final working group report said
February 13
AEP: Not Starting "National" Retail Play
AEP's competitive retail supplier will focus on hedging AEP's competitive generation in markets in which the company is already involved and which it understands, AEP CEO Nick Akins said during an analyst conference Friday
Exelon Proposal Threatens Customer Choice in Texas
It is becoming increasingly clear that the biggest threat to retail customer choice is not regulators, legislators, incumbent utilities, or consumer advocates, but rather the owners of formerly incumbent generating assets, who now seek to foreclose the retail market after successfully stopping the threat of new entry in most of the RTOs in the U.S.
Calpine: Introduce "Obligation to Serve" in ERCOT
Calpine has recommended to the PUCT that "the obligation to serve" be "placed on the table for discussion" as the Commission contemplates resource adequacy
HIKO Energy Reports Customer Count in Illinois Application
HIKO Energy, LLC disclosed its customer count in its recently filed application for an Illinois alternative gas supplier license.
PUCT to Review Smart Meter Opt-Out
The Public Utility Commission of Texas will review the issue of providing customers with an "opt-out" from advanced metering
Viridian Reports 2011 Volumes in Publishing Sustainability Report
Viridian Energy has reported its sales volumes for 2011, as part of its annual Sustainability Report.
PPL Supply Unit Earnings Again Challenged by Market Prices
PPL Corp.'s Supply unit reported lower ongoing earnings of $147 million for the quarter ending December 31, 2011, versus $311 million a year ago.
February 10
AEG Affiliated Energy Group has closed three mergers and acquisition deals specifically in the retail energy space in the past nine months, and expects more deals to close in the next two quarters.
People's Power & Gas Offering Residential Service in New State
People's Power & Gas, LLC has begun offering residential electric supply in ...
Direct Energy Business Expands to New Territory
Direct Energy Business announced that it will begin providing competitive electricity supply services to commercial and industrial customers in ...
Ga. PSC Selects Regulated Provider for New Term
The Georgia Public Service Commission has selected a regulated provider at AGL for a two-year term to beginning September 1, 2012.
• Twin City Energy Services Receives New License
• U.S. Energy Services Receives New License
PPL Sees Residential Customers on Competitive Supply Decline in Past Two Weeks
The number of residential customers on competitive supply at PPL decreased over the past two weeks, according to the latest data from the Pennsylvania PUC
Just Energy Reports Higher Gross Margin
Just Energy reported a 5% increase in gross margin from retail energy marketing, which helped grow company-wide Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter ending December 31, 2011 to $88.5 million, versus $76.8 million a year ago (all figures Canadian).
Calpine Reviewing Adding 550 MW in ERCOT
Calpine said this morning that it is evaluating adding at least 550 MW of new capacity in ERCOT.
AEP to File at FERC Today to Separate Ohio Businesses
AEP said this morning that it plans to file today at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to separate its Ohio businesses and to terminate and replace the Interconnection Agreement for its eastern generating assets with a new power cost sharing arrangement.
February 9
N.J. BGS Auction Produces Lower Prices for Mass Market Customers
The New Jersey BPU has posted results from the annual Basic Generation Service auctions.
IDT Energy Launches Residential Service in New Territory, Another Area Coming Soon
IDT Energy has begun offering residential electric service at ...
Integrys Energy Services Expands Natural Gas Service to Three New States
Integrys Energy Services announced this morning the expansion of its energy supply services to include natural gas service in ...
Flash: Organic Customer Growth Rises at Just Energy
In reporting earnings this morning, Just Energy said that its customer count, in terms of long-term customer aggregation, stood at 3.758 million Residential Customer Equivalents
Draft Would Grant License to GDF Suez Retail Energy Solutions
• DC Project, Inc. Receives New License
• HealthTrust Purchasing Group Receives New Licenses
Ambit Energy Surpasses 700,000 Customers
Ambit Energy announced that the company ended 2011 with over 700,000 customers, an increase of more than 250,000 for the year.
Calif. PUC Directs Utilities to Propose Methodology for ESP Security Requirements
The California PUC has directed the investor-owned utilities to file proposals for the calculation of electric service provider security.
• CL&P Reports Last Resort Service Suppliers
• Maine PUC Discloses Standard Offer Suppliers
• Golden Gate Power Seeking to Hire 1,000
February 8
Interstate Gas Supply Begins Offering Residential Service at PPL
Interstate Gas Supply has started offering residential electric service at PPL Electric Utilities.
Delmarva to Implement Dynamic Pricing for All SOS Customers by 2014
The Delaware PSC has approved a settlement which contemplates that Delmarva Power will introduce dynamic pricing for all SOS residential customers by June 2013
United Illuminating Posts New POR Discount Rate
United Illuminating has filed the calculation of the 2012 Non-Hardship Uncollectible Factor, which serves as the Purchase of Receivables discount rate
Hess Small Business Services Receives License in New State
• Start-up Forefront Energy Group Seeks Broker License
• RMI Consulting Seeking Licenses in Several States
• Tobelmann Energy Brokers Seeks New License
CMS Energy "Pretty Comfortable" That No Change in Michigan Choice Cap is on Horizon
CMS Energy, parent of Consumers Energy, told investors yesterday that it is "pretty comfortable" that there will be no change in the current electric retail open access cap in Michigan in the near term
Calif. Draft Would Grant Stanford Relief from CRS Charges, But Decline to Adopt Generic Policy
A draft California PUC decision would grant Stanford University a requested waiver of the application of the direct access cost responsibility surcharge (CRS) for certain amounts of its load, but would tailor the decision narrowly to the instant circumstances and decline to set a blanket policy for similar waivers of the cost responsibility surcharge
• Hampshire Power Signs First Brokered Electricity Customers
• Kleinginna Joins Reliable Power Alternatives Corp.
• PUCT Posts Spanish Version of Standard Form Prepaid Disclosure Statement
February 7
Sperian Energy Eyeing Natural Gas Service, Network Marketing, Applies for New License
Sperian Energy Corp. intends to eventually expand to natural gas service, it said in applying for an Ohio electric supplier license
FirstEnergy Solutions Launches Residential Service in Maryland
FirstEnergy Solutions has begun offering residential electric service in Maryland.
Residential Migration Continues to Slow at BGE
Residential migration continues to slow at Baltimore Gas & Electric, according to the latest statistics from the Maryland PSC
CurrentChoice.com Launches Online Shopping Platform
Online shopping website CurrentChoice.com has launched service, starting with the Duquesne Light market.
American Power Partners Launches Service in Pennsylvania
American Power Partners LLC has begun offering residential electric service at ...
HIKO Energy Seeks License in New State
• Partners New Energy Seeks Texas REP Certificate
• Summer Energy Reports Change in Ownership/Control
• New Trade Name Approved for Wolverine Alternative Investments, Inc.
AEP TDUs Reach Agreement to Expand Load Management Program for 2012
AEP Texas Central Company and AEP Texas North Company have reached agreements to expand the amount of load in their 2012 commercial load management programs, in light of resource adequacy concerns
Calif. Posts Draft on Rules Governing Utility Behavior Toward Community Choice Aggregation
A California PUC agenda (draft) resolution would institute a rulemaking to consider and adopt a code of conduct, rules, and enforcement procedures governing the conduct of electrical corporations relative to the consideration, formation, and implementation of community choice aggregation (CCA) programs
Constellation Energy Lowers N.J. Residential Pricing
Constellation Energy said that it has lowered its New Jersey residential electric pricing, and has launched a new direct mail campaign
February 6
PUCO Defers Prior Revisions to Allocation of Discounted Capacity at AEP Ohio
AEP Ohio will not be required to immediately revise its detailed implementation plan (DIP) regarding the allocation of discounted capacity to comply with a recent clarification from PUCO, an Ohio attorney examiner held Friday
PUCT Staff Propose Level for Demand Ratchet Waiver
PUCT Staff have filed a draft proposal for publication to exempt certain non-residential secondary voltage service customers from the demand ratchet
WGES Reverses Customer Attrition, Reports Growth
WGL Holdings' retail energy marketing segment reported operating earnings of $13.1 million for the quarter ended December 31, 2011, up from $6.8 million in the year-ago quarter
Sperian Energy Launches Residential Service in New Territory
Sperian Energy has begun offering residential electric service at ...
Amerigreen Energy Launches Residential Service in New Territory
Amerigreen Energy has begun offering residential electric service at ...
PECO Posts Default Service Procurement Results
PECO has posted results from its winter 2012 solicitation for default service supplies held on January 18, 2012
Our Energy to Pay $20,000 to Settle PUCT Staff Compliance Audit
Our Energy, LLC would pay $20,000 under a settlement with PUCT Staff to resolve allegations that Our Energy was not in full compliance with 15 provisions of the Substantive Rules
• Draft Would Approve ResCom Settlement
• PUC Adopts New Renewable Add-on Rates at PSNH
• From the Archives: Illinois Migration Data for December
February 3
PECO Adjusts POR Discount Rate
PECO has adjusted its Purchase of Receivables discount rate for electric service, effective January 31.
HOP Energy Begins Listing Met-Ed Residential Offers on PA Power Switch
HOP Energy has begun offering residential electricity at Met-Ed through PA Power Switch
Pepco Files New SOS Rates for District of Columbia
Pepco has filed with the District of Columbia PSC retail generation rates for the period June 1, 2012 through May 31, 2013.
Public Power, LLC Receives License in New State
• Capital Energy LLC Receives Supplier License
• Vision IT Energy Receives New License
• Goldstar Energy Group Receives New License
Retail Suppliers Seek Further Unbundling at PG&E
Retail suppliers and other competitive supply parties have asked the California PUC to consider the further unbundling of distribution rates at Pacific Gas & Electric
EnerNOC to Pay $45,000 to Settle EILS Shortfall
EnerNOC, Inc. would pay $45,000 under a settlement with PUCT Staff to resolve Staff's allegations that EnerNOC violated PURA 39.151(d) and P.U.C. SUBST. R. 25.503(f)(2), concerning failure to adhere to Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) Protocol §§ 8.1.3.1(6)(a) and 8.1.3.1 (6)(f), relating to Performance Criteria for Emergency Interruptible Load Service (EILS) Qualified Scheduling Entities (QSEs) obligations, on February 2-3, 2011.
Constellation to Pay $20,000 to Settle RRS Shortfall
Constellation Alliance II, LP (QSE) would pay $20,000 under a settlement with PUCT Staff to resolve Staff's allegations that Constellation violated PURA §39.151 (d) and (j) and P.U.C. SUBST. R. 25.503(f)(2), concerning failure to adhere to Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) Protocol § 8.1.1.4.2(1)(b), relating to Responsive Reserve Service Energy Deployment Criteria during the February 2, 2011 Energy Emergency Alert (EEA) Event
Constellation to Pay $15,000 to Settle Xtend Energy Telemetry Failure
Constellation Energy Commodities Group would pay $15,000 under a settlement with PUCT Staff to resolve Staff's allegations that Constellation violated PURA § 39.151 (d) and (j) and P.U.C. SUBST. R. 25.503(f)(2), concerning failure to adhere to Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) Protocol § 6.5.1.1, relating to the failure of Xtend Energy LP to provide the required telemetry related to its deployment of loads acting as resource (LaaR) on August 20, 2010.
• Usource Reports Higher Sales Margin
• UGI Utilities Files New Default Service Rates
February 2
Ambit Energy to Expand in Five States
Ambit announced plans to expand the company's electricity and/or natural gas service to residential and small commercial customers in ...
Michigan PSC Reports Load Served by Each Competitive Supplier in 2011
The Michigan PSC has posted its annual report on retail electric choice, which includes the load served by each alternative supplier in 2011
Blue Pilot Energy Receives New Licenses
• Telco Pros Expanding to Electric Brokering
• The Eric Ryan Corporation Seeks New License
• North Shore Energy Consulting Seeks Expanded License
Residential Migration Growth Down at PECO
Residential migration growth at PECO for the most recent week was about half of the week-ago growth, according to the latest stats from the Pennsylvania PUC
N.H. Bill Would Require Divestiture of PSNH Generation
The New Hampshire legislature is conducting a hearing today on a bill (House Bill 1238) which would require Public Service of New Hampshire (PSNH) to divest its fossil, hydro, and biomass generation assets by December 31, 2013
PUCT Staff Opposes Glacial Request for Stay of Revocation Proceeding
Staff of the Public Utility Commission of Texas has opposed Glacial Energy of Texas, Inc.'s request for a stay of a PUCT proceeding (see 1/10) concerning a Notice of Violation and petition for revocation of the Glacial REP certificate, and Staff also offered a statement of position on Glacial's application for injunctive and declaratory relief in Travis County District Court.
• PUCO Approves New Retail Price Adjustment at Vectren
• Direct Sales Company Dynastar Holdings Completes Reverse Merger
• Constellation Closes on ONEOK Energy Marketing Acquisition
• Liberty Power Receives A+ Ranking from BBB
• FERC to Revoke Market-Based Rate Authority of Eight Companies
February 1
Frontier Utilities Acquired by Group Led by Quintana Infrastructure & Development, Targets Growth
Frontier Utilities, LLC, has been acquired by a group of independent Texas-based investors led by Quintana Infrastructure & Development LLC and Jay D. Hellums, an industry veteran
Vectren Energy Delivery Seeks Modifications to SCO Auction, Market Structure
Vectren Energy Delivery of Ohio, Inc., Staff of the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, the Ohio Marketers Group, DTE Energy Trading, Inc., and the Ohio Consumers' Counsel have filed a stipulation regarding changes to the retail market under Vectren Energy Delivery's Standard Choice Offer (SCO) auction, including the possible introduction of a discount rate to purchased receivables
Staff Posts Results of Vectren Standard Choice Offer Auction
Vectren's Standard Choice Offer auction conducted on January 31, 2012 resulted in a Retail Price Adjustment of ...
Detroit Edison Files Final Electric Choice Cap for 2012
Detroit Edison has filed its final electric choice cap for the year 2012 with the Michigan PSC.
Consumers Energy Files Final Electric Choice Cap for 2012
Consumers Energy has filed its final electric choice cap for the year 2012 with the Michigan PSC.
ResCom Energy to Contribute $4,500 to Fuel Fund to Settle Connecticut Notice of Violation
ResCom Energy LLC is to make a $4,500 donation to a Connecticut charitable fuel fund, in lieu of a civil penalty, under a settlement of a Connecticut PURA Notice of Violation which alleged ResCom engaged in unauthorized customer switches
National Energy Marketers Association Sets Policy Priorities for 2012
Marking its 15th year of service, the National Energy Marketers Association recently met in executive session and adopted policy priorities for 2012.
• PowerOptions Selects SunEdison for Distributed Solar Program
• Reliant Installs EV Charger at Pappas Bros. Steakhouse
• PUCT Issues RFP for Conservation Education, Messaging
January 31
FERC Enforcement Staff Alleges Market Manipulation by Constellation Energy Commodities Group
The Staff of the Office of Enforcement of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, in a nonpublic preliminary investigation, "has preliminarily determined that Constellation Energy Commodities Group, Inc. (CCG) violated the Commission's Prohibition of Electric Energy Market Manipulation, 18 C.F.R. § 1c.2 (2011) and the Commission's Market Behavior Rule: Communications, 18 C.F.R. § 35.41(b) (2011)," a Staff Notice of Alleged Violation issued yesterday states
North American Power Affiliate Receives Texas REP Certificate
• Toyota Motor Manufacturing Seeks Electric License
• Goldstar Energy Group Seeks New License
• Summerview Energy Seeks New Licenses
PECO Issues RFP to Select Retail Supplier to Offer Dynamic Pricing Plan
PECO has issued an RFP to select an electric generation supplier to offer PECO's dynamic pricing program for generation supply, which is required under Act 129
Met-Ed, Penelec, Penn Power Post Default Service Procurement Results
Metropolitan Edison Company (Met-Ed), Pennsylvania Electric Company (Penelec) and Pennsylvania Power Company (Penn Power) have posted results from their January 2012 default service procurement
UGI Reports Lower Earnings from Gas Marketing
UGI Corp. reported that its Midstream & Marketing segment, which includes UGI Energy Services, reported lower earnings for the three months ended December 31, 2011 of $13.9 million, versus $18.1 million a year ago
FERC Accepts Changes to Maintain Higher Capacity Prices in PJM
FERC accepted several changes to the Reliability Pricing Model tariff which will act to raise capacity prices, but ordered hearing and settlement procedures regarding the Cost of New Entry
Residential Migration Declines at Nstar, National Grid
During December, Nstar and National Grid both saw reversals of the November gains in the number of residential customers on competitive supply, according to the latest stats from the Massachusetts DPU
Orange & Rockland Remote Account Number Access Tool Goes Live
Customers at Orange & Rockland can now remotely look up their utility account number on occasions when they do not have their bill, facilitating the enrollment onto ESCO service when customers are marketed to outside of the home.
January 30
Dominion Retail Reports Lower Earnings, Customer Count
Dominion Retail reported $51 million in earnings including noncontrolling interests before interest and taxes for the quarter ending December 31, 2011, down from $65 million a year ago, parent Dominion reported Friday
CenterPoint Energy Services, Inc. Receives New License
• PA Gas Marketing Receives Expanded License
• Mablock Consulting Receives New License
• Southeast Energy Consultants Receives New License
• The Legacy Energy Group Receives New License
• SourceOne Energy Receives Expanded License
AEP Reports Lower Gross Margin from Customer Switching in Ohio
Customer switching in Ohio accounted for a reduction in gross margin of $40.9 million at AEP Ohio during the fourth quarter of 2011, AEP disclosed in reporting earnings Friday.
Enova Energy Group Acquires American New Energy
Enova Energy Group, an independent power producer of clean energy projects, has acquired a majority interest in American New Energy, an energy procurement and management consultant, Enova Energy Group confirmed Friday
West Penn Power Reports Default Service Procurement Results
West Penn Power has reported results of its January 16 procurement of default service supplies.
NextEra Customer Supply, Trading Business Reports Lower Earnings
The contribution from NextEra Energy's customer supply businesses and proprietary power & gas trading activity to parent-level earnings was down by approximately $4 million for the fourth quarter of 2011, versus the year-ago quarter, NextEra said in reporting earnings Friday.
Algonquin Power & Utilities to Withdraw from First Wind Holdings Investment
Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp. said that it plans not to proceed with the previously announced investment in First Wind Holdings, LLC's wind portfolio in the Northeast United States, citing the ongoing regulatory review in Maine
MISO Files Tariff to Implement Look Ahead Commitment
The Midwest ISO has filed with FERC tariff revisions to establish a Look Ahead Commitment tool, a near-term Resource commitment process in MISO's real-time markets
• AP Gas & Electric Files Notice of Intent to Offer Prepaid Service
• Resident Power Supplies N.H. Town
January 27
Corning Natural Gas Joint Proposal Would "Accommodate" Purchase of Receivables
A joint proposal in Corning Natural Gas Corporation's rate case would open the door for the possible introduction of Purchase of Receivables
Gulf Electricity Cites Next State for Retail Effort
Application expected in next few months
PUCO Sets FirstEnergy Ohio Retail Generation Rate
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio has posted the retail generation rate resulting from the recent default service auction for the FirstEnergy Ohio utilities
Nonbypassable Reservation Charge Approved at Michigan Gas Utilities
The Michigan PSC has approved a reservation charge at Michigan Gas Utilities Corporation which will allocate to choice customers certain costs related to the Supplier of Last Resort function
New Hampshire Rejects Alternative Default Service Proposal at PSNH
The New Hampshire PUC has rejected Public Service Company of New Hampshire's proposed design for an alternative default service rate, finding that the proposed mechanism could price the rate below PSNH's marginal cost, which would encourage gaming by customers
Maine PUC Adopts New Standard Offer Rates
The Maine PUC has approved new Standard Offer rates for medium commercial and industrial customers at Central Maine Power and Bangor Hydro-Electric for the six-month period beginning March 1, 2012.
Residential Migration Continues to be Challenged at PPL
Residential migration continues to be challenged at PPL, according to the latest stats from the Pennsylvania PUC
• Just Energy to be Listed on NYSE
• Constellation Energy Awarded New GSA Contracts
• PUCT Revokes Abacus Resources Energy Certificate
January 26
Gulf Oil Intends to Expand Retail Electric Marketing Nationally
Gulf Oil LP intends to expand its retail electric marketing nationwide, it said in formally announcing its Connecticut retail electric supply business, which had been first reported by Matters
PPL EnergyPlus Expands Residential Service to New Territory
PPL EnergyPlus has expanded its residential electric offerings to a new service area.
Residential Migration Growth Down Slightly at ComEd During December
Residential customers at Commonwealth Edison who have switched to a competitive supplier and completed at least one billing cycle on competitive supply increased by about 30,000 during the month of December, according to the latest statistics from the Illinois Commerce Commission.
CenterPoint Energy Houston Electric Reaches Agreement on Expanding Load Management Program
CenterPoint Energy Houston Electric informed the PUCT yesterday that it had reached agreement with several parties to expand its load management program, which pays enrolled customers for curtailments during called events at peak times
AEP Ohio to Ignore Order for Greater Discounted Capacity Absent Further Direction from PUCO
AEP Ohio said that it would not file a new version of the Detailed Implementation Plan concerning the allocation of discounted capacity to customers absent further direction from the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, or the case's attorney examiners, notwithstanding PUCO's recent entry requiring AEP Ohio to file a revised Detailed Implementation Plan
CRA International Posts Results from FirstEnergy Ohio Default Service Auction
CRA International has filed results from the January 24 default service procurement for supplies at the FirstEnergy Ohio utilities
• Megalink Energy Supply Receives New License
FirstEnergy Subsidiaries to Retire Six Power Plants
FirstEnergy Corp. announced this morning that its generation subsidiaries will retire six older coal-fired power plants located in Ohio, Pennsylvania and Maryland by September 1, 2012.
Exelon: Retail Margins "Relatively Stable"
Exelon's Generation unit, which includes competitive retail operations, reported lower adjusted earnings for the fourth quarter of 2011 of $359 million, versus $538 million a year ago.
From the Archives: United Illuminating December Migration Data
January 25
dPi Energy Launches "Free Sundays" Plan
dPi Energy has launched a "Free Sundays" prepaid electric plan for customers with provisioned advanced meters
HIKO Energy to Seek Licenses in Three States
• Starion Energy Seeking License in New State
• Ohio Energy Program Receives New License
• EnerNOC Receives Broker License
Guest Commentary: Stephens' Justin Courtney on Retail Supplier M&A, Capital Markets
The following commentary is provided by Stephens Inc. Investment Banker Justin Courtney on the state of the REP capital markets. All views and opinions expressed herein are solely those of the author
ERCOT Submits Protocol Revision Request for New Minimum Capitalization Requirements
ERCOT has submitted Nodal Protocol Revision Request (NPRR) 438, which would institute new minimum capitalization requirements applicable to market participants
PPL Posts Default Service Procurement Results
PPL Electric Utilities has posted results from its January 9 procurement of default service supplies.
• Liberty Power Reports Commercial Customer Count
• South Texas Electric Cooperative to Pay $15,000 Under Settlement with PUCT Staff
Texas Coalition for Affordable Power Updates Report on Impacts from Deregulation
The Texas Coalition for Affordable Power has released an updated version of its report of electric deregulation in Texas
Texas Electricity Professionals Association Modifies Name to Reflect Expanded Services
The Texas Electricity Professionals Association (TEPA) recently announced that it will modify its name in order to reflect the growing energy market across the state
January 24
Opt-out Aggregations to Receive "Separate" Allotment of RPM-Priced Capacity at AEP Ohio
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio has clarified its order concerning the discounted capacity set asides available for shopping customers at AEP Ohio, which will expand the amount of load able to be served with RPM-priced capacity versus how AEP Ohio proposed to implement PUCO's prior order
Glacial Energy of Texas, Inc. has filed a petition in Travis District Court for a temporary and permanent injunction against the Public Utility Commission of Texas and its enforcement of a Notice of Violation issued against Glacial
• Live Energy Inc. Seeks New License
• Customized Energy Solutions Seeks New License
NYSEG, RG&E to Table Proposal for Remote Access to Customer POD IDs
New York State Electric & Gas Corporation and Rochester Gas and Electric Corporation said that they would table the proposed program to provide customers with remote access to their POD IDs, with no intention to revisit it, due a lack of interest and funding commitment by ESCOs
PUCO Approves Transfer of Ohio Power Generation Out of Ratebase to AEP Affiliate
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio yesterday approved Ohio Power's application to transfer its generating assets outside of the ratebase and to new affiliate AEP Generation Resources Inc.
PUCT Issues Notice of Violation Against Energy Curtailment Specialists Concerning EILS Obligations
The PUCT executive director has issued a Notice of Violation (NOV) against Energy Curtailment Specialists, Inc. seeking an administrative penalty of $50,000 as Oversight and Enforcement Staff alleged that ECS failed to meet its Emergency Interruptible Load Service (EILS) obligation on February 2, 2011
Constellation Energy, PureSense Partner to Offer Automated Load Response Programs to Growers
Constellation Energy today announced an agreement with PureSense Environmental, Inc. to provide automated load response programs to customers of PureSense Environmental's energy response program, PureSenseESP
Viridian Reports Maryland Enrollments in December
Viridian Energy has filed with the Maryland PSC its compliance report for the month of December, which lists the number of customers enrolled in Maryland during the month.
North American Power Reports Maryland Enrollments in December
North American Power has filed with the Maryland PSC its compliance report for the month of December, which lists the number of customers enrolled in Maryland during the month
January 23
Liberty Power Begins Offering Ameren Residential Service on PlugIn Illinois
Liberty Power has begun offering residential electric supply at all three Ameren rate zones on PlugIn Illinois.
Baltimore Gas & Electric Posts New Generation Rates
Baltimore Gas & Electric has filed new generation rates for Type II customers for the three month period beginning March 1, 2012, and formally filed new residential and Type I generation rates for the period June 1, 2012 through September 30, 2012
Auction Manager: Ohio Should Consider Eliminating Load Cap
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio should consider eliminating the load cap in the descending clock default service auctions at Duke Energy Ohio, auction manager CRA International said in a report to PUCO
Oncor Seeks to Increase Curtailable Load by 50 MW, Citing ERCOT Reserve Margin
Oncor Electric Delivery petitioned the Public Utility Commission of Texas for a good cause exception order to allow it to procure another 50 MW of curtailable load for the summer of 2012
Vista Energy Marketing Receives License in New State
• Megalink Energy Supply Seeks New License
• Land's Energy Service Seeks New License
• One Energy Seeks New License
National Fuel Gas Distribution Corporation proposed to the New York PSC to not, at this time, implement a program to provide customers with real-time remote access to their utility account numbers, due to a lack of interest and funding commitment from ESCOs
Parties File Stipulated Issues Regarding Entergy Competitive Generation Tariff
Parties have filed with the PUCT a list of stipulated facts and settlement issues regarding Entergy Texas' competitive generation service (CGS) tariff, though several issues remain contested
FERC Intends to Revoke Market-Based Authority of 70 Companies, Including Active Retail Suppliers
FERC intends to revoke the market-based rate authority of 70 "public utilities," including several competitive retail suppliers, if the entities do not file electronic market-based rate tariffs within 60 days.
NYSEG and RG&E Notify Customers of Unauthorized Access to Customer Data
New York State Electric & Gas (NYSEG) and Rochester Gas and Electric (RG&E), subsidiaries of Iberdrola USA, today began sending precautionary notifications to customers advising them of unauthorized access to customer data
January 20
Twin Eagle Resource Management Acquires Energy Marketer Enserco
Twin Eagle Resource Management, LLC, which is engaged in various marketing activities including retail supply, has announced a definitive agreement to purchase all of the outstanding stock of Enserco Energy, Inc., a natural gas, power, coal, and crude oil marketing company, from Black Hills Corp.
Verdigris Energy Seeks New License
Md. PSC Staff: Exelon-Constellation Settlement with State Addresses Market Power Concerns
A settlement among Exelon, Constellation, and Gov. Martin O'Malley, which includes requirements for Exelon to build up to 300 MW of new in-state generation (see 12/12), "adequately address all of the market power concerns," raised in prior PSC Staff testimony, Staff said in supplemental testimony filed this morning.
BGE Files Updated Rates for Bypassable Rider 8
Baltimore Gas & Electric has filed updated amounts for bypassable electric Rider 8, which reconciles supply costs.
N.Y. PSC to Require Greater Individual, Utility Metering of Multi-Unit Developments
The New York PSC will issue for comment proposed regulations which would require greater direct metering by the utility for individual units in multi-unit complexes
FERC Grants Rehearing to Determine Future Treatment of OOM Capacity in ISO-NE
FERC has granted rehearing on a single issue of its April order regarding ISO New England's Forward Capacity Auction (FCA), which largely addressed buyer-side market power, to determine how to treat Out of Market (OOM) resources carried forward under one set of rules under a new and different set of rules
FERC Denies Retail Suppliers' Requested Cost Allocation in ISO-NE
FERC has denied the request of retail suppliers to allocate costs of demand response to Network Load during a transition period in which an interim set of rules to comply with Order 745 are in effect
January 19
Decline in Residential Migration Subsides at PPL for a Week
PPL saw net growth in the number of residential customers on competitive supply for the first time in a month, according to the latest statistics from the Pennsylvania PUC.
Maine PUC Orders Alternative Standard Offer Mechanism at CMP, BHE
The Maine PUC has rejected the Standard Offer bids for the large non-residential classes at Central Maine Power Company and Bangor Hydro-Electric and directed Staff to work with CMP and BHE to arrange for Standard Offer service through an alternative means.
Residential Migration Growth Up in All N.J. Territories, Nearly Doubles at PSE&G
The growth in residential electric migration at Public Service Electric and Gas during December was nearly double the November growth, according to updated stats on the New Jersey BGS auction website
HIKO Energy Seeks License in New State
• Santanna Energy Services Receives License in New State
• Supermarket Procurement Co-op Topco Associates Seeks New Aggregator License
• Vivint Seeks New Broker License
UGI Gas Sees Large Jump in Residential Customers on Competitive Supply
The Pennsylvania Office of Consumer Advocate has posted residential natural gas migration data as of January 1, 2012.
MISO to Lower Credit Requirements for LSEs Participating in Capacity Auction
The Midwest ISO has submitted tariff revisions to FERC to lower the credit requirements in the monthly Voluntary Capacity Auction (VCA) after determining that the current credit requirements are "excessive" based on historical pricing
Conn. Rules NU-Nstar Merger Requires PURA Approval
Northeast Utilities shall not consummate its proposed merger with Nstar unless and until the Connecticut PURA has issued a final decision approving the merger, PURA ordered yesterday.
PUCO Denies AEP Ohio Rehearing Request on Duke ESP
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio has denied AEP Ohio's request for rehearing of PUCO's order approving an order in Duke Energy Ohio's electric security plan proceeding.
January 18
Pa. PUC Proposes Removing Supplier Responsibility for Marketing Consultant Action
The Pennsylvania PUC will examine whether natural gas suppliers (NGS) should, by rule, remain responsible for any violations committed by a marketing service consultant or a nontraditional marketer used by that NGS, as part of its review of gas supplier licensing.
Public Power, LLC Seeks New License
• SourceOne Seeks New License
• Wolverine Alternative Investments, Inc. Adds Trade Name in Texas
• Sunwave Gas & Power Inc. Seeks New Licences
Potomac Edison Files New SOS Rates
Potomac Edison has filed with the Maryland PSC new SOS rates for Type II customers for the period March 1, 2012 through May 31, 2012.
Calif. Draft Would Mandate New Nonbypassable Charge
A California PUC comment (draft) resolution would direct Pacific Gas & Electric, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas & Electric to negotiate to enter into a contract with Calpine's Sutter Energy Center to end no later than December 31, 2012, and would adopt a nonbypassable charge to pay for the cost of the contract
Office of Consumer Advocate Seeks to Reduce Number of Customers in Opt-In Auctions
Allowing 50% of default service customers to participate in a retail opt-in auction, "may create unintended issues and challenges for the EDCs [electric distribution companies] and default service," the Pennsylvania Office of Consumer Advocate said in comments on a tentative PUC order concerning a retail market workplan
• Bounce Energy Announces Affinity Program for Big Brothers Big Sisters
• ERCOT Board Elects New Chair, Vice Chair
January 17
Gulf Oil Planning Electric Marketing Via Cumberland Farms
Gulf Oil Limited Partnership, "plans to conduct solicitation for Connecticut customers by distributing information through retail locations of its affiliate Cumberland Farms, Inc.," it said in updating with PURA certain materials associated with its electric supplier license
PECO has proposed an annual reconciliation of default service costs, rather than the currently quarterly reconciliation, in an electric default service plan for the period June 1, 2013 through May 31, 2015, filed with the Pennsylvania PUC
Market Reports Calif. Phase IV Direct Access Cap Hit
The amount of new direct access load available under Phase IV of the limited re-opening of direct access in California has already been fully subscribed, several suppliers told Matters after January 13, the first day that suppliers and customers were permitted to file six-month notices to take direct access service under Phase IV starting in January 2013
Pepco Files New Type II SOS Rates
Pepco has filed with the Maryland PSC new SOS rates for Type II customers for the period March 1, 2012 through May 31, 2012.
Delmarva Files New Type II SOS Rates
Delmarva has filed with the Maryland PSC new SOS rates for Type II customers for the period March 1, 2012 through May 31, 2012.
Potomac Edison Sees Decreased Bidding for Type I SOS Supply
Potomac Edison saw a significant decrease in participation in the RFP for Type I SOS supplies, Maryland's bid consultant reported.
• Conn. Draft Would Grant License to Blue Pilot Energy
• Priority Power Management Receives New License
• Nu Energy Solutions Receives New License
• RMI Consulting Receives New License
• EDF Withdraws Opposition to Merger Under Agreement with Constellation-Exelon
• Constellation Lowers Illinois Pricing
January 13
Residential Customers Continuing to Leave Competitive Supply at PPL
PPL started the new year seeing a continuation of the trend of fewer residential customers on competitive supply, as was seen in most of the month of December, according to the latest stats from the Pennsylvania PUC.
Vista Energy Marketing Seeks New Supplier License
• TMG Energy Source Seeks New License
• Affiliated Power Purchasers International Receives New License
• Belden Energy Solutions Seeks New License
United Illuminating December Migration Growth Was Slowest of 2011
United Illuminating has posted electric migration statistics as of December 31, 2011.
CL&P Sees Slower Migration Growth in December
Connecticut Light & Power has posted migration statistics as of December 31, 2011
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio is seeking comments on whether electric distribution utilities (EDUs) and/or competitive retail electric service (CRES) providers should offer pricing options for all consumers with advanced or interval meters that reflect the time-varying prices in wholesale electricity markets and additional dynamic pricing options such as pre-paid, indexed, and other variable rates
PUCT Intends to Address System Wide Offer Cap, Peaker Net Margin By End of Summer
The PUCT intends to act on Commissioner Kenneth Anderson's "Category Three" issues relating to resource adequacy by the end of the summer, Commissioners agreed at yesterday's open meeting
Direct Energy Moving Corporate Office to Houston
Direct Energy announced that it will move its corporate head office to Houston, Texas.
Calif. PUC Requires Better Direct Access Load Forecasts in Procurement Plans
The California PUC has directed the investor owned utilities to better account for expected direct access load in their bundled procurement plans
January 12
Pa. PUC Proposes Removing Exemption from Licensing for Gas Marketing Services Consultants
The Pennsylvania PUC this morning voted to issue for comment a rulemaking to re-examine the regulations regarding natural gas supplier (NGS) licensing requirements
Sperian Energy Corp. Receives New License
• Agway Energy Services Receives Expanded License
• Naba Energy Receives New License
• Xencom Green Energy Receives New License
Glacial Energy Issues Response to PUCT NOV, Revocation Petition
Glacial Energy issued the following response yesterday to a Notice of Violation filed by the PUCT executive director and the petition (1/10) by PUCT Staff to revoke the REP certificate of Glacial Energy of Texas, Inc.
Pa. PUC Proposes to Add PLC Data to Info Available to Suppliers Via EDI
The Pennsylvania PUC this morning voted to issue for comment a Tentative Order that would provide for additional data sharing between electric distribution companies (EDCs) and electric generation suppliers
Pa. PUC Staff Not Opposed to Migration Rider for Default Service Costs at PPL
The Pennsylvania PUC Bureau of Investigation and Enforcement does not oppose the implementation of a reconciliation rider as a means of recovering proper transmission service and generation supply service charges, but said that a proposed rider from PPL Electric Utilities would recover "improper" costs not related to default service through the rider, and opposed the rider as proposed by PPL
Georgia Marketers Question Methodology of BLS Study Showing Higher Atlanta Gas Prices
The unknown methodology used in a Bureau of Labor Statistics study concerning retail natural gas prices in Georgia, "creates questions regarding [the] reliability of [the] comparison," several retail gas suppliers said in separate comments to the Georgia PSC.
PUCO Denies Nonbypassable Rider for Plant Closure Costs at Ohio Power
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio has denied Ohio Power's request (10/4/10) for a nonbypassable rider to recover the closure costs of Unit 5 of the Philip Sporn Generating Station
Simple Energy to Reward Dallas, Houston Customers for Reducing Energy Usage
Simple Energy, a company which offers rewards to customers for reducing electricity usage, is offering its online program to customers at Oncor and CenterPoint Energy Houston Electric with provisioned advanced meters
Polidoro Banned from PJM Demand Response Market for Two Years Under Settlement with FERC
FERC approved a settlement under which Joseph Polidoro, former Senior Vice President of North America Power Partners (2006-08), is to pay a civil penalty of $50,000 and be subject to a two-year ban from participation in PJM's Demand Response markets, to resolve various Enforcement Staff allegations
Great Bay Energy Elected to NEM Executive Committee
Great Bay Energy, LLC has been elected to the National Energy Marketers Association's Executive Committee
January 11
Arizona Settlement Would Allow Some Large Customers to Purchase Alternative Generation Supply
A settlement in Arizona Public Service Company's rate case would allow a capped number of large power users to elect alternative generation supply under a "buy through" mechanism
Residential Customers on Choice Service Falling in Two Maryland Territories
During November, the number of residential electric customers on competitive supply decreased at two Maryland utilities, according to the latest PSC data.
Viridian Energy Launches Gas Service in Eight Markets
Viridian Energy launched its expansion to natural gas service at the start of the year, although its initial markets have changed slightly from its earlier announcement
ERCOT Considering Distributed Load Aggregation Program for Small Users
ERCOT is considering a Distributed Load Aggregation program, which would allow smaller customers to provide demand response during emergencies, it said in a resource adequacy status report to the PUCT
Clearview Electric Seeks New License
• Reliable Power Alternatives Corporation Receives New License
• Global Power Consultants Receives New License
• Maneri-Agraz Receives New License
New York Utilities Form Coalition to "Control Customer Costs"
Six investor-owned New York State electric and natural gas utilities have formed Energy Coalition New York to, "provide public policy leadership on energy issues."
NEM Announces Policy Committee Chairs, Regional Advocacy Team Leaders
The National Energy Marketers Association has announced National Policy Committee Chairs and its Regional Advocacy Team Leaders for 2012
StarTex Power Receives A+ Ranking from BBB
StarTex Power announced that the greater Houston and South Texas Better Business Bureau has upgraded the company's review rating from an "A" to "A+."
January 10
Cirro Energy Acquires Assets of Kinetic Energy
Cirro Energy has acquired the assets of Texas retail electric provider Kinetic Energy
PUCT Staff Seeks Revocation of Glacial Energy REP Certificate
PUCT Staff have filed a petition to revoke the REP certificate of Glacial Energy of Texas, Inc
Residential Migration Growth at ComEd Slows Slightly in November
Residential customers at Commonwealth Edison who have switched to a competitive supplier and completed at least one billing cycle on competitive supply increased by about 37,000 during the month of November, according to the latest statistics from the Illinois Commerce Commission
NEM Launches Retail Energy Trends Survey
The National Energy Marketers Association (NEM) has launched a 2012 Retail Energy Trends Survey to assess the growth and expansion plans of the 140 retail energy companies active in the North American market
Ambit Energy Receives New License
• Adven Resources Seeks New License
• Global Energy Market Services Receives New License
• Atlantic Power Partners Receives New License
TXU Launching New Cash Back Products
TXU Energy is launching new residential cash back products offering higher cash back percentages, and has expanded the cash back program to business customers.
Choose Energy Launches Electricity Price Index Tool
ChooseEnergy.com has launched the Texas Residential Electricity Price Index Tool, which Choose Energy said will allow customers to easily observe the varying trends in electricity contract terms based upon a range from one month all the way up to 24 months
January 9
Columbia Choice Program Terminated
Administrative costs, lack of participation cited
The PUCT executive director has issued a Notice of Violation (NOV) against Glacial Energy seeking an administrative penalty of $235,750 as Oversight and Enforcement Staff alleged, among other things, that Glacial is not in compliance with the current requirements for REP ownership, alleged that Glacial provided false or misleading information to the Commission, and alleged that Glacial overbilled its customers.
U.S. Gas & Electric Offering Residential Service in Two New Territories
U.S. Gas & Electric is now offering residential electricity supply at Duquesne Light and West Penn Power through PA Power Switch
PUCT Schedules Workshop on Interaction of POLR Rate, Prepaid Service
The PUCT has scheduled for February 16 a workshop regarding amending Commission substantive rules relating to electric Providers of Last Resort (POLR), including the calculation of the POLR rate and application of the POLR rate to prepaid service
Sharyland Proposes New Date for Default REP RFP in Transition to Retail Choice
Sharyland Utilities now proposes that it shall issue an RFP to select a default REP or REPs for its four former Cap Rock service areas no later than April 30, 2013, as part of its plan to introduce retail competition to the service areas
Reliant Providing 10,000 Free Home Energy Monitors
Reliant announced today that it is providing 10,000 free home energy monitors to early-adopter customers
• Energy Solutions USA Seeks New License
• Burton Energy Group Seeks New License
• Verdigris Energy Receives New License
Maryland PSC Staff Propose Reporting Requirements for Curtailment Service Providers
Maryland PSC Staff has proposed annual reporting requirements for curtailment service providers, which are subject to licensure by the Commission
January 6
PPL Sees Decline in Residential Migration During Latter Half of December
PPL continues to see a loss of residential customers on competitive supply, as it ended Decmber with fewer migrated residential customers than it had at the start of the month.
Nstar Sees Reversal in Migration Loss at Commonwealth Electric
Nstar saw a reversal of the trend of declining residential migration at its Commonwealth Electric territory, according to recently posted November statistics from the Massachusetts DPU
Viridian Energy Reports Maryland Customer Count for November
As of November 30, Viridian Energy was serving 22,896 active electric customers in Maryland, according to a compliance report filed with the PSC
North American Power Reports Maryland Enrollments During November
North American Power has filed with the Maryland PSC its compliance report for the month November, which lists the number of customers enrolled in Maryland during the month
PUCO Posts Winning Suppliers for Duke Energy Ohio SSO
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio has disclosed winning bidders from the December 14 auction for Standard Service Offer supplies at Duke Energy Ohio
January 5
AEP Retail Energy to Acquire BlueStar Energy Solutions
AEP Retail Energy announced this morning that the company has reached an agreement to acquire BlueStar Energy Holdings Inc. and its independent retail electric supplier BlueStar Energy Solutions.
Castlebridge Energy Group Launches Residential Service in Pennsylvania
Castlebridge Energy Group has begun offering residential electric supply in Pennsylvania
Xoom Energy Receives New License
• Avion Energy Group Receives New License
• Worthington Energy Consultants Receives New License
• National1 Energy, LLC Receives New License
Ga. PSC Directs Marketers to Justify Pricing
Georgia Public Service Commissioner Stan Wise has requested that Georgia natural gas marketers clarify conflicting reports on Georgia natural gas prices.
Ecova to Acquire LPB Energy Management
Ecova, f/k/a Advantage IQ, today announced the planned acquisition of LPB Energy Management (LPB), a privately held energy management company headquartered in Dallas, Texas.
Detroit Edison Files 2012 Initial Choice Cap
Detroit Edison has filed its initial electric choice cap for 2012
Consumers Energy Files 2012 Initial Choice Cap
Consumers Energy has filed its initial electric choice cap for 2012
EnerNOC, Maryland Staff Files Settlement on Failure to Meet Gap RFP Obligations
EnerNOC, Inc., Maryland PSC Staff, the Office of People's Counsel, and three affected utilities have filed a settlement regarding EnerNOC's failure to attain demand response in the amount required under the Gap RFP contracts
ConocoPhillips to Pay $545,000 Civil Penalty Under Settlement with FERC
ConocoPhillips Company has agreed to pay a civil penalty of $545,000 and to disgorge $3,174,900 plus interest to resolve FERC Enforcement Staff's allegations ...
January 4
Michigan Gas Utilities Proposes New Reservation Charge, Expects "Saturation" of Choice in 2012
Michigan Gas Utilities Corporation has proposed a new level for the Reservation Charge applicable to competitive suppliers, as well as an annual true-up of the Reservation Charge revenues with actual pipeline demand, supply, and reservation costs, in an application to implement a gas cost recovery (GCR) plan for the 12-month period from April 2012 through March 2013
Maine Advisory Staff Presents Initial View of Dynamic Pricing at CMP
Maine PUC Advisory Staff has requested comment on a number of different issues related to the design and operation of possible Central Maine Power dynamic pricing programs
Nordic Energy Services Receives New License
• Reliant Receives New License
• RJT Energy Consultants Receives New License
• Smart Energy Partners Receives New License
FirstEnergy Solutions Says AEP Ohio Compliance Plan Inconsistent with Ohio Default Service Order
FirstEnergy Solutions has petitioned the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio to maintain then-current (as of the December 30, 2011 date of FES' motion) rates at AEP Ohio, or alternatively maintain the then-current cost of capacity, until such time as AEP Ohio has accepted the partial stipulation, as modified by PUCO, establishing an electricity security plan, or until another electricity security plan or market rate offer is approved
PUCT Staff Updates Estimate of ERCOT Capacity Used for Small Fish Swim Free Rule
PUCT Staff have posted in Project 39870 an updated estimate of the installed generating capacity in ERCOT, including the estimated total used for the "small fish swim free" market power exemption under P.U.C Subst. R. 25.504(c).
PUCT to Open Rulemaking on Disgorgement
The PUCT has assigned Project 40073 for a rulemaking to implement HB 2133
Siemens Expands to Energy Procurement with Pace Global Acquisition
Siemens Industry, Inc. announced today that it has completed the acquisition of Pace Global Energy Services, LLC in Fairfax, Va.
January 3
Direct Energy Acquires Vectren Source
Direct Energy has acquired Vectren Source from Vectren Corporation ...
Duke Energy Retail Sales Begins Offering Residential Natural Gas Service
Duke Energy Retail Sales, LLC has expanded to residential gas sales ...
PG&E Files to Implement New Direct Access Service Fees
Pacific Gas & Electric has filed an application with the California PUC to modify the fees charged for various services provided to electric service providers and community choice aggregators, which includes an increase in certain consolidated billing fees
N.H. PUC Adopts Lower Default Service Rate at PSNH
The New Hampshire PUC has approved a lower energy service (default service) rate for Public Service Company of New Hampshire, denying PSNH's motion to keep current rates in effect until the PUC adjudicates temporary rates to recover scrubber costs.
Bounce Energy Launches Cash Back Program
Bounce Energy has launched a cash-back program
• American Enerpower Franchisor Seeks New License
• Ohio Energy Program Seeks Broker License
• RMI Consulting, Inc. Seeks Pa. License
• Summit Energy Services Registers as N.H. Aggregator
AES Eastern Energy Limited Partnership Declares Bankruptcy
AES Eastern Energy Limited Partnership (AES Eastern Energy) and 13 affiliated entities have filed petitions for relief under Chapter 11 in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware
December 30
Columbia Lowers POR Discount Rate
Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania, Inc. has informed the PUC that, effective December 30, 2011, Columbia will cease recovery of the administrative adder included in its Purchase of Receivables discount rate
Maryland Choice Workgroup Report Recommends Information, Not Promotion
The Maryland Consumer Education and Customer Choice Workgroup (PC 25), tasked by statute with developing an electric choice education plan, has filed a final report with the Maryland PSC which finds that the primary purpose of any PSC efforts should be to inform customers about electric Choice, "not encourage or direct customers to make a choice."
Calif. Draft Would Revise PG&E Proposal for New Customer Protection Rules for Retail Gas Suppliers
A California PUC comment (draft) resolution would adopt Pacific Gas & Electric's proposed New Customer Protection Rules applicable to Core Transport Agents (CTAs) with two modifications, relating to the effective date, and to the treatment of recently merged companies in measuring compliance
Met-Ed Continues to See Strong Weekly Growth in Residential Migration
Met-Ed saw residential migration growth exceed 4,000 accounts for the third straight week, according to the latest stats from the Pennsylvania PUC
• HealthTrust Purchasing Group Seeks New License
• InSource Power Seeks New License
• Rate Droppers Seeks New License
• Smart Energy Partners Receives Broker License
Maine PUC Discloses Winning Standard Offer Bidders
The Maine PUC has disclosed the winning bidders in the recent small volume Standard Offer solicitations for supply at Central Maine Power and Bangor Hydro-Electric
FirstEnergy Solutions Signs Agreement with City of Lorain, Includes Sponsorship
FirstEnergy Solutions has signed an eight-year electricity supply agreement with the City of Lorain, Ohio which includes supplying six city facilities and sponsorship of Pipe Yard Stadium
December 29
Dominion East Ohio Files Stipulation to Cease Use of SSO Auction
Dominion East Ohio has filed a stipulation with PUCO Staff and retail gas suppliers to cease the current Standard Service Offer (SSO) auctions
Draft Order Would Grant New License to Independence Energy Group
• RMI Consulting Inc. Seeking Broker Licenses in Multiple States
• Axsess Energy Group Seeks New Broker License
FirstEnergy Solutions has petitioned FERC, in a complaint, to direct PJM to allocate incremental real-time congestion charges to all transmission customers
Mass. Court Cape Wind Decision Addresses Basic Service Procurement, Cost Recovery
The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court rejected an appeal by opponents of the long-term PPA between Cape Wind and National Grid, and the DPU's prior decision permitting cost recovery of the contract will be affirmed
FERC Grants Green Mountain Energy Penalty Waiver for Inadvertent Capacity Withholding
FERC has granted Green Mountain Energy Company a waiver of certain New York ISO tariff and penalty provisions which Green Mountain Energy could have triggered due to its inadvertent withholding of capacity
FERC Approves Change in Allocation of NYISO Costs
FERC has approved a change in the allocation of NYISO's budgeted annual operating costs and Commission-assessed regulatory fees among NYISO market participants, with the new allocation to be maintained for a period of at least five years
December 28
Liberty Power Begins Offering Residential Service in Illinois
Liberty Power has begun offering residential electricity supply In Illinois
Central Hudson to Require ESCOs to Take Winter Bundled Sales Service for Certain Customers
Central Hudson Gas & Electric has submitted tariff amendments to the New York PSC to make Winter Bundled Sales (WBS) Service mandatory for retail gas suppliers serving Service Classification Nos. 6, 12 & 13 customers
National Fuel Gas Distribution to Make Low Income Discount Competitively Neutral
National Fuel Gas Distribution Corporation has filed tariffs with the New York PSC to essentially "unbundle" one of its current low-income assistance programs, to allow customers served by ESCOs to receive service under the program as they would if they were sale service customers
Public Power, LLC Receives License in New State
• Suncom Energy Seeks to Serve Residential Customers
• Twin City Energy Services Seeks Broker License
• U.S. Energy Services Seeks Broker License
December 27
Energy Services Providers, Inc. Reports Customer Count by Utility in New License Application
Energy Services Providers, Inc., d/b/a, Ohio Gas &. Electric, has applied for an Ohio electric supplier license to serve all customer classes in all service areas
Duke Energy Ohio Files Tariffs Listing Amount for Bypassable Riders
Duke Energy Ohio has filed tariffs establishing retail generation rates for the period beginning January 1, 2012
• First Point Power Receives New License
• Moxi Energy Advisors Seeks Pa. License
• Vision IT Energy Seeks New License
• Alternate Power Source Seeks New License
Ohio Orders Provide Duke with Unfair Competitive Advantage, AEP Ohio Says
Recent PUCO orders concerning electric security plans at Duke Energy Ohio and AEP Ohio provide Duke Energy Ohio with an, "undue preference and advantage," due to the disparate treatment of corporate separation plans addressing the separation of generation from the distribution utilities, AEP Ohio said in a rehearing request
MISO to Allow Additional Resources to Set Prices for Energy, Ancillary Services
The Midwest ISO has submitted tariff revisions which it said will enable block loaded Generation Resources, Generation Resources dispatched at limits, and Emergency Demand Response (EDR) resources to be eligible to set Day-Ahead and/or Real-Time prices for Energy and Ancillary Services
December 23
Pa. PUC Staff Opposes POR at Philadelphia Gas Works Absent "Thorough Investigation" of PGW Finances
The Pennsylvania PUC's Bureau of Investigation and Enforcement (I&E) has recommended that the PUC reject a stipulation among PGW and retail suppliers to enhance choice at PGW, and said that Purchase of Receivables should not be implemented at PGW at this time
• Public Power & Utility Withdraws Maine License
Final Illinois Order Allows Forward Procurement of Capacity at Ameren
A final Illinois order allows the Illinois Power Agency (IPA) to procure, for default service customers at Ameren Illinois, capacity for the periods 2013-2014 and 2014-2015 during the solicitation held in early 2012
Maine PUC Sets Standard Offer Rate at BHE
The Maine PUC has adopted a new Standard Offer rate for Bangor Hydro-Electric's large non-residential customer class
RPM "Fixes" Designed to Ensure Higher Capacity Prices, Maryland PSC Says
Recent changes to the Reliability Pricing Model capacity mechanism filed by PJM are meant to inflate capacity prices, the Maryland PSC said in a protest at FERC
MISO to Change Mitigation, Allocation of Revenue Sufficiency Guarantee Charges
The Midwest ISO has filed changes to tighten mitigation of payments to generators under Revenue Sufficiency Guarantee (RSG) charges, and also proposed a new allocation for RSG costs from voltage and local reliability issues
FirstEnergy Solutions Says Pa. Residential Pricing Expires Dec. 31
FirstEnergy Solutions said that its following residential pricing at several Pennsylvania distribution companies will expire December 31
December 22
PECO Sees Reversal of Residential Migration Decline
PECO has seen a reversal of the decline seen in residential migration, as the past week saw the largest net growth in migrated residential accounts recorded in several months
Noble Americas Gas & Power Seeks Retail Gas License in Ohio
Noble Americas Gas & Power Corp. d/b/a Emerald Energy Retail applied for an Ohio gas supplier license to serve all customer classes at Dominion East Ohio and Columbia Gas
• Potentia Energy to Add New Trade Name
• Burton Energy Group Fined $100, Receives Broker License
• Quest Energy Solutions Receives Broker License
• Trinity Energy Services Receives Broker License
• SourceOne, Inc. (DE) Receives Broker License
Rep. Phil King Asks PUCT to Act on Prepaid Electricity Price Cap
Texas State Rep. Phil King has written a letter to the PUCT asking the Commission to consider, "how we may be able to set up a system that does not punish REPs for being prudent in purchasing electricity in advance when POLR rates drop drastically when the MCPE goes negative."
Ohio Power Files Rate Ready Billing Format
Ohio Power Company (AEP Ohio) has sought approval from PUCO to implement a Competitive Retail Electric Service (CRES) Consolidated Rate Ready bill format to become effective on February 15, 2012
Noting Impact on POR, Maryland PSC Adopts Lower Late Payment Charges at BGE
The Maryland PSC approved Baltimore Gas & Electric's petition to temporarily lower the late payment fees applicable to customer electric and gas bills, due to a transition to BGE's new billing system
Power Target, LLC Launches Online Broker Platform Geared Toward Appearing on Non-Energy Websites
Power Target, LLC has launched an online brokering website and platform which it said will offer service nationwide
• IntelliGEN Resources to Pay $20,000 to Settle LaaR Shortfall
December 21
Maryland PSC Directs BGE to Resume Supplier Testing March 1
The Maryland PSC has directed Baltimore Gas & Electric to resume testing natural gas suppliers for entry onto BGE's system on March 1
N.H. PUC Approves Nonbypassable Recovery for PSNH Contracts
The New Hampshire PUC has approved the nonbypassable recovery of certain supply costs related to PPAs that Public Service Company of New Hampshire will execute with several wood-burning generators
Xoom Energy Receives New Licenses
• Southeast Energy Consultants Seeks Pa. License
• U.S. Energy Management Services Seeks N.H. License
• New Trade Name Approved for GDF Suez Retail Energy Solutions
Illinois Adopts Default Service Procurement Plan
The Illinois Commerce Commission this morning approved an Illinois Power Agency procurement plan for default service customers
N.H. PUC Adopts New Default Service Rates for Granite State Electric
The New Hampshire PUC approved new default service rates for large and medium commercial and industrial customers (Large Customer Group) at Granite State Electric Company d/b/a National Grid, for the period from February 1 through April 30, 2012
N.Y. PSC Approves Voluntary TOU Generation Rate at NiMo
The New York PSC has approved a voluntary Time of Use generation rate option for Service Classification No. 2 - Non-Demand (SC2-ND) customers at Niagara Mohawk
• N.Y. Approves RGE Divestiture Plan
• FirstEnergy Solutions Extends Aggregation Enrollment Periods
• Direct Energy Business Launches 360Direct in Illinois
December 20
A survey conducted for AEP Texas Commercial & Industrial Retail Limited Partnership, d/b/a AEP Retail Energy, shows that nearly 150,000 customers would expect better service from AEP Retail Energy, which Direct Energy argued shows an unfair competitive advantage provided to the REP through its use of the shared AEP brand with two Texas TDUs
DTE Energy Supply Seeks to Serve Small Volume Customers
• Vivint Seeks Maryland Supplier License
• UtiliTech Receives Broker License
• Atlantic Power Partners Receives Broker License
Residential Migration Growth Rebounds at JCPL
Public Service Electric and Gas and Jersey Central Power & Light both saw the rate of residential migration growth increase during the month of November, according to the latest stats on the BGS auction website
N.J. Staff Recommend Options to Address Capacity Costs Which May Negatively Impact Retail Market
New Jersey should consider the possibility of creating a state power authority if ratepayer-backed long-term capacity contracts fail to clear the May 2012 and May 2013 Reliability Pricing Model auctions, New Jersey BPU Staff has recommended to the Board
Direct Energy Massachusetts Marketing Includes Direct Mail, Gift Card
Direct Energy is marketing its recently announced (12/16) residential electricity offer to customers at National Gird in Massachusetts through direct mail, and is including a gift card as part of the offer in at least some of the solicitations.
PSNH Asks to Maintain Current Default Service Rate Beyond January 1
Public Service Company of New Hampshire has asked the PUC to maintain the currently applicable default service rate beyond January 1, 2012, until such time as the PUC approves temporary rates to address certain PSNH scrubber costs
Switch Holds Decrease at TNMP, TNC
The total number of switch holds applicable to customers as part of entering into a deferred payment plan with a retail electric provider fell at Texas-New Mexico Power and AEP Texas North Company during the month of November
Texas Energy Aggregation announced today that it was recently awarded a State of Texas contract for electricity procurement services...
December 19
Verde Energy Launches Residential Service at ComEd
Verde Energy USA has begun offering residential electricity supply at Commonwealth Edison
Energetix Begins Supplying Residential Gas at PECO
Energetix has begun offering natural gas supply to residential customers at PECO
• EMEX Power Receives New License
• Maneri-Agraz Receives New License
Maryland Staff Recommend Show Cause Order on BGE Testing of XML for Gas Suppliers
The Maryland PSC Staff has recommended that the Commission direct Baltimore Gas & Electric, "to show cause why it cannot enter Castlebridge Energy Group, LLC into its [natural gas] testing program and provide a firm date when testing will be provided."
The Maryland PSC may wish to direct the state's utilities to advise the Commission of any intentions for significant billing and backoffice system implementations that will affect various market participants, the Maryland PSC Staff has recommended
Retail Opt-In Auctions In Pennsylvania Limited to Service After June 1, 2013
Opt-in auctions to place retail electric customers in Pennsylvania on competitive supply would not include service prior to June 1, 2013 under a tentative PUC intermediate retail market workplan
Pennsylvania Orders Utilities to Consider Use of Annual Default Service Reconciliations
Pennsylvania electric distribution companies (EDCs) will be required to "contemplate" the use of semi-annual or annual reconciliations of default service costs under their next default service plans, in addition to the current quarterly reconciliations, the Pennsylvania PUC directed in a final order regarding the EDC's next default service plans published Friday
N.H. PUC Sets New Default Service Rates at Unitil
The New Hampshire PUC has approved new default service rates at Unitil for large commercial and industrial (G1) customers for the three month period from February 1 through April 30, 2012
December 16
Direct Energy Launches Massachusetts Residential Service
Direct Energy has begun offering competitive electricity supply services to residential customers in the National Grid service territory in Massachusetts
Duke Energy Ohio Generation Rates to Fall Drastically January 1
An auction for default service supplies at Duke Energy Ohio produced lower retail generation rates, as expected, for the period beginning in 2012.
Pa. PUC Orders Utilities to Send Postcard Encouraging Customers to Shop
The Pennsylvania PUC, via Secretarial Letter, ordered eight of the state's electric distribution companies (EDCs) to mail a postcard promoting electric shopping to small volume customers.
MC Squared Energy Services Receives New License
• GDF Suez Retail Energy Solutions Receives New License
• Metromedia Energy Receives Expanded License
• LightSky Energy Receives Broker License
• Quest Energy Solutions Receives New Broker License
• Ardor Energy Receives New Broker License
• 3Degrees Group Receives Conn. Supplier License
The Pennsylvania PUC yesterday voted to issue final recommendations to electric distribution companies (EDCs) concerning the structure of their next default service plan filings, such that the filings, to the extent possible, do not preclude any market design changes that the PUC may ultimately adopt as it investigates the structure of the state's retail electric market
Pa. PUC Issues Proposed Intermediate Work Plan for Retail Market Development
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) yesterday issued a proposed intermediate work plan as part of its Retail Electricity Markets Investigation designed to improve the state's retail electricity market
Cawley Asks Utilities to Use Quarterly Reconciliations for Bypassable Transmission Charges
Pennsylvania PUC Commissioner James Cawley has requested that Pennsylvania electric distribution companies reconcile transmission rates, which are a bypassable component of the price to compare, on an quarterly basis rather than on an annual basis
Cawley Seeks Review of Utility Charges for Historical Usage Data
As part of the Pennsylvania PUC's request for comments on the intermediate retail market workplan (see related story today), Commissioner James Cawley has sought comment on the charges imposed on electric generation suppliers for obtaining historical usage from the utilities
FERC: "Premature" to Fundamentally Redesign MISO Capacity Market
It would be "premature" to undertake a fundamental re-design of the Midwest ISO resource adequacy plan at this time, FERC said in denying rehearing on prior orders regarding the current "voluntary" monthly capacity auction in MISO
FERC Clarifies Demand Resources Not Always Entitled to Full LMP
FERC generally denied rehearing requests regarding Order 745, which ordered demand response to be paid the full LMP under certain conditions, but did clarify circumstances in which the full LMP shall not be paid to demand resources.
N.Y. PSC Approves Tariff for Voluntary Hourly Pricing at NiMo
The New York PSC approved tariffs at Niagara Mohawk to allow SC-3 Customers with demands below the 250 kW threshold and SC-2 Demand Customers to voluntarily elect hourly pricing for commodity supply from NiMo.
Calif. PUC Issues Final Decision on Use of RECs for New RPS Categories
The California PUC yesterday adopted a final decision to implement the new RPS portfolio content categories established in SB 2 (1X).
December 15
GDF SUEZ Energy Resources NA announced today that it will begin service to small commercial customers this month under its new Think Energy brand
PECO, PPL See Decline in Residential and Commercial Customers on Competitive Supply
PECO and PPL both saw a decline in the number of residential customers on competitive supply during the most recent week, according to the PUC's latest statistics
Exelon-O'Malley Settlement Includes Potential for Ratepayer-Supported Generation
Exelon and Constellation Energy have reached a settlement with Gov. Martin O'Malley and the Maryland Energy Administration under which MEA is now supporting the applicants' merger before the PSC, and under which Exelon commits to build up to 300 MW of new in-state generation
Santanna Energy Services Seeks Electric Supplier License
• Supermarket Procurement Co-op Topco Associates Seeks New Broker License
• Power2Switch Receives New License
• Atlantic Power Partners Registers as N.H. Aggregator
FERC Orders Technical Conference on PJM Price Responsive Demand, Citing Allocation of PRD Credit
FERC has subjected PJM's price responsive demand (PRD) filing to the outcome of a technical conference and further Commission order
The Pennsylvania PUC should provide electric distribution companies with the ability to "adjust" the credit requirements for electric generation suppliers due to the proposed acceleration of the switching timeline, the FirstEnergy electric distribution companies (EDCs) said in comments to the PUC
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio revoked the licenses of two electric brokers, and one governmental aggregator, for failure to file an annual report for 2010
Maine PUC Posts New Standard Offer Rates
The Maine PUC has established Standard Offer rates for the residential and small commercial customer classes at Central Maine Power and Bangor Hydro-Electric, for the period March 1, 2012 though February 28, 2013
December 14
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio approved a modified stipulation establishing the AEP Ohio companies' electric security plan governing default service for the period 2012 through May 31, 2016, which revises the amount of "discounted" capacity made available to competitive retail suppliers
Agway Energy Services Seeks New License
• Xoom Energy Receives New Licenses
• Partner of Property Manager FirstService Corporation Receives ABC License
• Verdigris Energy Receives ABC License
• Enterprise Energy Consulting Receives ABC License
• Brubaker & Associates Receives ABC License
• TMG Energy Source Receives ABC License
• WIN Utility Brokerage Receives ABC License
• Partners in Energy Management Receives ABC License
• National 1 Energy Receives ABC License
Consumer Advocate Opposes Settlement on Choice Education, Billing Enhancements at PGW
The Pennsylvania PUC should reject a settlement among Philadelphia Gas Works and retail suppliers to increase customer education and improve operational rules for choice suppliers due to the costs that such measures would impose on distribution customers, the Office of Consumer Advocate said in comments to the PUC
A proposed Illinois order would allow the Illinois Power Agency (IPA) to procure, for default service customers at Ameren Illinois, capacity for the periods 2013-2014 and 2014-2015 during the solicitation held in early 2012
A revised California PUC agenda decision would add greater detail regarding rules for reselling RPS-eligible contracts in order to maintain the contract's original classification into one of three statutory RPS categories, but would not provide two major revisions sought by retail suppliers
Exelon, Constellation Name Leadership for Combined Commercial Business
Exelon and Constellation today announced the executive team that will run the Constellation business unit following the closing of the companies' planned merger.
Occidental Power Services to Pay $60,000 to Settle Ancillary Shortfall
Occidental Power Services, Inc. (QSE) would pay $60,000 under a settlement with PUCT Staff to resolve allegations that Occidental Power Services was in violation of PURA 39.151(j) and P.U.C. SUBST. R. 25.503(f)(2), concerning failure to adhere to Electric Reliability Council of Texas, Inc. (ERCOT) Protocol § 6.3.2(2), concerning ancillary service provider obligations during the February 26, 2008 emergency event
December 13
Sources: Vectren Corp. Seeking Buyers for Vectren Retail
Vectren Corp. has commenced a process to sell Vectren Retail d/b/a Vectren Source.
Reliant Expands Residential Service to Massachusetts, Delaware
Reliant has begun offering residential electric service in Massachusetts
Connecticut Light and Power Sees Highest Migration Growth Since March
Connecticut Light & Power has posted migration statistics for the month of November 2011
United Illuminating Posts November Migration Data
United Illuminating has posted electric migration statistics as of November 30, 2011
AEP Retail Energy Attributes Knowledge of Market Role to "Descriptive" Name
Survey respondents' ability to correctly identify AEP Retail Energy's role as a REP in the ERCOT market reflects the "descriptive" nature of its name, and does not indicate that the name provides AEP Retail Energy with a competitive advantage, AEP Texas Commercial & Industrial Retail Limited Partnership said ...
Delaware Posts November Electric Migration Data
The Delaware PSC has posted electric migration statistics for the month ending November 2011
• Energy Plus Holdings Formally Announces Ohio Entry
• Curtis named to Lead Dominion Retail
• Blue Pilot Energy Announces Pennsylvania Entry
December 12
Residential Migration Continues to Decline at PSE&G
Residential natural gas customers continued to migrate away from competitive supply at Public Service Electric and Gas during the month of October, according to the latest stats from the New Jersey BPU
Affiliate of Master-Meter Energy Manager Seeks Ohio Supplier License
Capital Energy LLC applied for an Ohio electric supplier license as a power marketer, power broker, and aggregator to serve all customer classes in all service areas
CL&P, UI Propose Nonbypassable Recovery for Purchase of LRECs, ZRECs
Connecticut Light & Power and United Illuminating jointly submitted to PURA this morning (11-12-06) a solicitation plan for the procurement of RECs from qualifying Connecticut Class I renewable energy generation projects of varying sizes that have either low emissions (LRECs) or zero emissions (ZRECs).
• Reliable Power Alternatives Corporation Seeks Ohio Broker License
• Best Practice Energy Registers as N.H. Aggregator
• Platinum Advertising II Receives Illinois ABC License
• Maneri-Agraz Receives Illinois ABC License
Interstate Gas Supply has asked the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio to cap the amount of discounted capacity available to governmental aggregations which would otherwise be made available under a pending non-unanimous settlement regarding AEP Ohio's electric security plan
Mass. DPU Rejects Unitil REC Cost Recovery Proposal as Not Competitively Neutral to Retail Suppliers
The Massachusetts DPU rejected a proposed cost recovery mechanism from Fitchburg Gas & Electric (Unitil) regarding RECs to be procured under a long-term REC contract, finding that, "because even a small reduction in basic service prices could result ... the Company's proposed cost recovery mechanism is not competitively neutral with respect to basic service customers and competitive supply customers."
Bounce Energy Packaging DirectTV Offer with Electricity Plan
Bounce Energy has launched a new electric plan for ERCOT residential customers providing an opportunity for customers to save on DirectTV service when enrolling with Bounce
Atmos Energy to Pay $6.4 Million for Flipping, Shipper-Must-Have-Title Violations
Atmos Energy Corporation will pay a civil penalty of $6.4 million under a consent agreement approved by FERC addressing various flipping and shipper-must-have-title violations by subsidiaries Atmos Energy Marketing, Inc. (AEM) and Trans Louisiana Gas Pipeline, Inc. (Trans La).
December 9
AEP Retail Energy Partners Receives New License
• Verde Energy Seeks New License
• GDF Suez Retail Energy Solutions Seeks Amendment to Texas REP Certificate
Direct Energy to Acquire Carrot Creek Gas Assets in Alberta
Direct Energy has agreed to acquire a package of liquids-rich natural gas assets located in west central Alberta (the Carrot Creek Assets) from Encana Corporation for $58m (Canadian $) in cash
PUCT Directs ERCOT to Study, Report on Amount of RRS, RUC Floor
PUCT Commissioners yesterday directed ERCOT to study several measures meant to ensure that proper price signals are sent in the energy-only market, including the amount of Responsive Reserve Service (RRS), and the floor for energy bids for units that are committed under Reliability Unit Commitment (RUC) for capacity
Advisory Staff Files Draft List of Issues for Sharyland Transition to Competition
PUCT Commission Advising has filed a draft preliminary order addressing a list of issues concerning Sharyland Utilities' proposal to transition the four former Cap Rock service areas to retail competition
PUCT Staff Proposed Modification to EILS Replacement Expands Eligibility
PUCT Staff have filed a draft proposal for publication concerning amendments to P.U.C. Substantive Rule 25.507, which would, among other things, expand the current Emergency Interruptible Load Service (EILS) program to include generation
Anderson: Capacity Market "Not on the Table"
PUCT Commissioner Kenneth Anderson yesterday wished to make "crystal clear" to the resource community that a capacity market, "is not on the table" at this time, as the Commission examines various measures to assure resource adequacy in ERCOT
Frontier Utilities to Pay $28,500 to Settle PUCT Staff Compliance Audit
Frontier Utilities Inc. would pay $28,500 under a settlement with PUCT Staff to resolve allegations that Frontier Utilities was not in full compliance with 15 provisions of the Substantive Rules
Usource Enters New Marketing Partnerships
• Maryland Revises Long-Term Capacity RFP
• RESA Announces Officers, State Chairs
December 8
Pepco Residential Migration Growth Falls by 90%
During October, residential migration growth at Pepco-Maryland decreased by 90% versus the monthly growth seen in September, according to the October electric migration stats posted by the Maryland PSC yesterday
Champion Energy Reports Growth in Residential Customer Equivalents
Champion Energy Services is now serving 1,000,000 residential customer equivalents, the company disclosed in a news release today concerning a new website for Texas small businesses
IDT Energy Continues Net Customer Growth
IDT Energy recorded another quarter of net customer growth for the quarter ending October 31, 2011 (first fiscal quarter of 2012), with a net gain of 23,000 meters, its parent disclosed in reporting earnings today
Stream Energy Receives New License
• Atlantic Power Partners Seeks Maine License
• Plymouth Rock Energy Seeks to Serve All Conn. Customers
• Conn. Draft Would Grant License to 3Degrees Group
FirstEnergy Utilities See Bleeding of Residential Customers Back to Default Supply
The FirstEnergy Ohio distribution companies saw a significant decline in migrated residential accounts during the three months ended September 30, 2011, versus the total as of the June 30, 2011.
Residential Migration Growth Nearly Zero at PPL
Residential migration growth at PPL and PECO slowed to a trickle for the most recent week, according to the latest stats from the Pennsylvania PUC
N.J. to "Consider" Expanded Dynamic Pricing
New Jersey will "consider" expanding dynamic pricing under its final energy master plan.
• ERCOT Requires Additional Time for Monticello RMR Determination
• ERCOT Announces Next Retail Market Qualification Testing, Including Mandatory TX SET 4.0 Test
• Energy Plus Says Most Customers First Engage Via Web
December 7
Texas State Representative Jim Pitts has asked the PUCT to review the current rule prohibiting electric offers to prepaid residential customers in excess of the Provider of Last Resort charge, stating that this rule negatively impacts prepaid providers who hedge
BP Energy Company Seeks Ohio Natural Gas Supplier License
BP Energy Company applied for an Ohio natural gas supplier license to serve all sizes of non-residential customers at Columbia Gas
Plymouth Rock Energy Seeks License in New State, Acquisition by MVC Closes
Plymouth Rock Energy, LLC today applied for an electric supplier license in a new state
Clearview Offers Service in New Pennsylvania Territory
Clearview Electric has expanded to a third service area in Pennsylvania
The Illinois Commerce Commission today approved the merger of AGL Resources Inc. and Nicor Inc.
• Enercom, Inc. Seeks Pa. Broker License
• National1 Energy Seeks Pa. Broker License
• Simec LLC Receives D.C. Broker License
NStar Seeing Decline in Residential Migration
NStar is generally seeing a decline in the number of residential electric customers taking competitive supply, according to recently updated stats from the Massachusetts DPU
N.Y. Posts Migration Data for July, August
The New York PSC yesterday posted electric migration statistics for the months of July and August 2011
• Parties File Pre-hearing Memos Regarding PPL TOU Generation Mechanism
• From the Archives: Maryland PSC Posts Electric Migration Statistics for September
December 6
Amerigreen Energy, Major Energy, WGES Among New Entrants to PECO Residential Gas Market
Several natural gas suppliers have begun offering residential supply at PECO in recent months, and more are expected as Purchase of Receivables takes effect January 1, 2012.
PUCT's Anderson Remains Skeptical of Capacity Markets
PUCT Commissioner Kenneth Anderson express continued skepticism of capacity markets during a conference call with UBS Investment Research this afternoon
Study: "More Than Half" of U.S. States Allow Retail Electric Competition
"[M]ore than half of U.S. states allow retail competition for large industrial or commercial customers, [but] few today have competitive electricity retail markets at the residential level," says a new report by MIT.
Additional mitigation of the Exelon-Constellation merger remains necessary beyond the initially offered divestitures, Maryland PSC Staff said in a post-hearing brief, while Exelon-Constellation simultaneously announced a commitment to build new generation in an amount which Staff suggested could potentially alleviate Staff's remaining concerns
HOP Energy Seeks Maryland License
• Verdigris Energy Seeks Ohio Broker License
• Clarity Energy Consulting Receives Ohio Broker License
• Uncertainty Over Aggregator/Supplier Regulation in Conn. Leads to Application Withdrawal
Horizon Power Reports Customer Count
Horizon Power and Light reported its customer count in filing a response at the District of Columbia PSC to concerns raised by the Office of People's Counsel
Bounce Energy Offering 12 Deals of Christmas
Bounce Energy is offering its "12 Deals of Christmas" for a second consecutive year
• BP Energy to Pay $20,000 to Settle Ancillary Shortfall
• Ampegy Launches New Website
December 5
N.Y. Staff Recommend Further Lowering Hourly Pricing Cutoff
New York PSC Staff have recommended lowering the current mandatory hourly pricing cutoff for default service customers at Orange & Rockland, and also recommended changes in the pricing of capacity
ERCOT Credit Work Group to Discuss Minimum Capitalization Requirements
ERCOT's Credit Work Group will discuss today draft minimum market participation standards, which include minimum capitalization requirements, and are similar to those recently required at other RTOs by FERC
Vectren Retail, LLC to Cancel Market Based Rate Authority, Citing Impending "Business Transactions"
ectren Retail, LLC d/b/a Vectren Source has submitted a notice of cancellation of its FERC market based rate tariff, and asked that FERC act on the notice expeditiously
Power2Switch to Expand to New States in December
Online broker Power2Switch announced that it has raised $1.3 million in capital allowing it to launch service in additional states this month
• RJT Energy Consultants Seeking Licenses in Several States
• Smart Energy Partners Seeks Ohio Licenses
• Avion Energy Group Seeks Ohio License
• Energy Trust Delaware Receives Broker License
ERCOT Files NPRR Regarding Procurement, Deployment of Resources to Address Emergency Conditions
ERCOT has filed Nodal Protocol Revision Request (NPRR) 432 to institute parameters governing ERCOT's procurement and deployment of Resources that may be used to alleviate imminent Emergency Conditions in a manner not otherwise delineated in the Protocols and Operating Guides, specifically, in taking actions similar to the reliability must-run (RMR) contracts executed with mothballed units this summer.
Entergy Says MISO Transition Not Impacted by Divestiture, Merger of Transmission Assets with ITC
Entergy Corporation and ITC Holdings Corp. announced this morning that the Boards of Directors of both companies have approved a definitive agreement under which Entergy will divest and then merge its electric transmission business into ITC
Consumers Energy has announced the cancellation of a proposed clean coal plant project near Bay City and the anticipated suspension of operation of seven smaller coal-fired units in 2015
• ERCOT Issues Final RMR Determination for S.R. Bertron Units
• Shahid Malik to Lead PSEG Energy Resources & Trade
• From the Archives: Connecticut Light & Power Migration Growth Slows in October
December 2
Constellation Energy to Acquire Retail Supplier ONEOK Energy Marketing Company
Constellation Energy has signed a definitive agreement to acquire 100 percent of ONEOK Energy Marketing Company
• Early Bird Power Seeks Pa. Gas Broker License
PUCT Staff File Draft Concerning Treatment of Energy Storage Transactions
PUCT Staff have filed a draft recommendation for a proposal for publication which would provide that energy storage equipment or facilities would be settled at the node when charging, and that such transactions would be considered wholesale transactions and would generally not be subject to ancillary costs
Calif. PUC Adopts Final Rules on Retail Supplier Security, Nonbypassable Charges
The California PUC adopted as final new rules governing security requirements applicable to electric service providers, and adjustments to the Market Price Benchmark (MPB) used to determine the nonbypassable indifference charges assigned to customers leaving bundled utility service
Viridian Energy Reports Maryland Customer Count for October
Viridian Energy filed a monthly compliance report listing its total Maryland customer count
North American Power Reports Maryland Enrollments During October
North American Power has filed with the Maryland PSC its compliance report for the month October, which lists the number of customers enrolled in Maryland during the month
PJM Files Changes to RPM to Further Inflate Capacity Prices
PJM has filed several proposed tariff changes with FERC, the principal design of which are to increase capacity prices in the Reliability Pricing Model
Maryland PSC Staff have sought stakeholder comment on Public Utilities Article §7-507(j) which requires that an electricity supplier, "post on the Internet information that is readily understandable about its services and rates for small commercial and residential electric customers," as Staff noted that "there are many issues that need clarification."
December 1
Pa. PUC to Launch New Rulemaking on Standardized Supplier Coordination Tariff
The Pennsylvania PUC will continue to work on standardizing natural gas distribution companies' (NGDC) supplier coordination tariffs, but will do so in a new rulemaking as the current rulemaking was approaching its automatic withdrawal date
ERCOT Forecasts 2012 Reserve Margin at 12%
ERCOT released its December capacity, demand and reserves report indicating that capacity is expected to fall below the target reserve margin beginning next summer
Washington Gas Energy Services Begins Offering Service at Met-Ed, Penelec
Washington Gas Energy Services has begun offering residential electric service at Met-Ed and Penelec.
Plymouth Rock Energy Receives Pennsylvania License
• Sperian Energy Corp. Receives Expanded Pa. License
• Great American Power Receives Expanded Pa. License
• Utility Savings Solutions Receives Pa. License
• Conn. Grants License to Noble Americas Energy Solutions
Pennsylvania Migration Growth Slows in Holiday-Shortened Week
According to the most recent statistics from the Pennsylvania PUC, weekly residential electric migration growth in Pennsylvania was generally lower in the most recent week, in part due to the loss of a meter read date from the holiday.
Direct Energy RFIs Start to Deconstruct AEP Retail Energy Survey Results
The Direct Energy REPs have submitted Requests for Information to AEP Texas Commercial & Industrial Retail Limited Partnership, concerning AEP Texas Commercial & Industrial Retail Limited Partnership's recent direct testimony supporting its sought REP certificate amendment to serve mass market customers
Future Now Energy Begins Listing Offers on Ohio Apples to Apples
Future Now Energy has begun offering residential natural gas service at Duke Energy Ohio through the PUCO Apples to Apples chart
North American Power, Pricelock Among Forbes' America's Most Promising Companies
North American Power and broker Pricelock were both named to Forbes' list of America's 100 Most Promising Companies
ERCOT Adjusts Responsive Reserve Deployment Practice
On December 7, 2011, ERCOT will adjust the current Responsive Reserve Service (RRS) deployment practice, while still being in accordance with the ERCOT Protocols, ERCOT said in a market notice
FirstEnergy Solutions Signs Long-Term PPA with Maryland Solar Project
FirstEnergy Solutions has signed a long-term agreement to purchase the output from the Maryland Solar Farm, which is to be constructed in Hagerstown, Md.
• PUCT Sets Interest Rates for REPs
• PUCT Schedules Demand Ratchet Workshop
November 30
Pa. PUC Caps Early Termination Fees at $50 for Supplier
EnerPenn USA, LLC d/b/a Y.E.P. and YEP Energy has petitioned the Pennsylvania PUC for reconsideration of the PUC's order granting YEP Energy an electric generation supplier license to remove various marketing and solicitation conditions placed on the license, including a limit of $50 on early termination fees
Illinois Senate Passes Tenaska Sourcing Agreement Bill
The Illinois Senate has passed SB 678 which would require, among other things, that alternative retail electric suppliers enter into sourcing agreements with an initial clean coal generating facility to be developed under the law, which is to be the Tenaska Taylorville Energy Center
PGW, Retail Suppliers File Settlement Resulting from Default Service Collaborative
Retail suppliers and Philadelphia Gas Works have reached a settlement to implement various retail choice billing and education enhancements, but which does not address any change in the default service mechanism
DEFG Releases 2011 ABACCUS Ranking of Retail Choice States
Distributed Energy Financial Group LLC this morning released its 2011 Annual Baseline Assessment of Choice in Canada and the United States
Pioneer Natural Resources USA, Inc., an exploration and production company, has sought to make, "[i]ssues related to the manner in which retail electric providers ('REP') offer service upon the initiation of unbundling in Sharyland's service area and as Sharyland's unbundled service matures," part of the issues to be addressed in hearings concerning Sharyland's proposal to transition the former Cap Rock territories to retail competition
• Sperian Illinois Application Limited to ComEd
• Early Bird Power Seeks D.C. Gas Broker License
• Mondre Energy Receives Mass. Broker License
• NorthRoad Energy Receives Mass. Broker License
• Young Energy Withdraws 5Linx Trade Name
PJM Files Process to Review Market Participant Risk Management Policies
PJM has filed tariff changes with FERC to implement, as required by FERC, periodic audits of a market participant's risk management policies by PJMSettlement.
• ERCOT Files 4CP Data for 2011
• Ohio Manufacturers' Association Selects FirstEnergy Solutions as Exclusive Supplier
November 29
Cincinnati Bell Energy Launches Natural Gas Service
Cincinnati Bell Energy has begun offering residential natural gas service at Duke Energy Ohio
ResCom Energy to Assign Maryland Customers to Public Power
ResCom Energy, LLC and its marketing partner Positive Energy Electricity Supply, LLC have entered into an agreement to assign all of ResCom's Maryland electric customers to Public Power, LLC, the parties jointly informed the Maryland PSC yesterday
Pa. House Committee Reports Out Resolution Blocking New Retail Natural Gas Rules
The Pennsylvania House Consumer Affairs Committee has reported out of committee HR 505, a concurrent resolution disapproving the PUC's regulation on natural gas distribution companies and the promotion of competitive retail markets.
Sperian Energy Seeks Illinois License
• Worthington Energy Consultants Seeks Ohio Broker License
• Qvinta Energy Services Receives D.C. Gas Broker License
• Clean Energy Receives Mass. Broker License
My Choice Energy Launches Service at Duke Energy Ohio
My Choice Energy has begun offering natural gas service at Duke Energy Ohio, with a product listed on PUCO's apples to apples chart
Direct Energy Business Expands to Central Maine Power
Direct Energy Business announced today that it will begin providing competitive electricity supply services to commercial and industrial customers in the Central Maine Power service territory
Independence Energy Begins New York Service
Independence Energy is now offering service in New York
Energy Plus Holdings Launches Affinity Program with Temple University Alumni Association
Energy Plus Holdings has launched an affinity partnership with the Temple University Alumni Association.
• ConEdison Solutions Names Lakhany as Illinois Channel Sales Manager
• From the Archives: New Default Service Rates at CL&P, UI
• From the Archives: October Migration at United Illuminating
November 28
Nine Out of 10 New ConEd Customers Decline to Use ESCO Referral Program
Nearly nine out of 10 small volume customers initiating service with Consolidated Edison decline to participate in the PowerMove ESCO referral program, according to a status report filed by ConEd
Direct Energy Texas Results Not Materially Impacted by August Weather
Total profitability for Direct Energy in Texas, "was not materially impacted," by price spikes during August, parent Centrica said in a recent interim management statement
N.Y. Remote Account Number Access Program to Move Forward at Four Utilities, With ESCO Funding
The New York PSC has accepted compliance filings from several utilities to implement programs allowing customers to remotely access their account numbers, as a mean of facilitating enrollments with ESCOs
VCharge Seeks Pa. Retail Supplier License to Market Thermal Storage Solution
VCharge Inc. applied for a Pennsylvania electric generation supplier license as an aggregator to serve all customer classes at PPL
Public Power, LLC Seeks Ohio License
• UGI Energy Services Receives Massachusetts Gas License
• 5Linx Receives Mass. Retail Agent License
• The Legacy Energy Group Receives Ohio Broker License
Residential Migration Growth Slows at PECO, PPL
PPL Electric Utilities and PECO both saw large declines in the weekly growth of migrated residential accounts in the most recent weekly statistics from the Pennsylvania PUC
FERC Suspends CAISO Virtual Bidding Intertie Prohibition, Subject to Technical Conference
FERC accepted but suspended the California ISO's tariffs to eliminate convergence bidding at intertie locations, finding that the proposal may be unjust, unreasonable, unduly discriminatory, or preferential, and ordered a technical conference
• PJM Reports Amount Load Overpaid in 2009-2011 due to Error
• From the Archives: Illinois Migration Data for October
November 23
ResCom Energy, LLC and its marketing partner Positive Energy Electricity Supply, LLC have entered into an agreement to assign all of ResCom's Connecticut electric customers to Public Power, LLC, the parties jointly informed PURA this morning.
The Illinois Commerce Commission approved the start of a second notice period for proposed electric customer protection rules, which, among other things, would newly prevent retail suppliers from using the name of an Illinois natural gas utility
PUCO "Open" to Utility Exit from Merchant Function as New Rules Drafted
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio is, "open to considering applications [from gas utilities] to exit-the-merchant-function and will seriously consider such applications that are just and reasonable," the Commission said in issuing proposed revisions to relevant rules governing any such exit
Proposed Order Would Impose Reservation Charge on Choice Customers at Michigan Gas Utilities
A proposed order from a Michigan ALJ would conclude that Michigan Gas Utilities Corporation's proposed level for a reservation charge applicable to choice customers, "is the simplest and fairest method to allocate the cost of providing reliable service to each customer class."
GDF Suez Retail Energy Solutions Receives Maine License
• New Young Energy Trade Names Approved by PUCT
• Quest Energy Solutions Receives Ohio Broker License
• SourceOne Receives Maine Broker License
Maine PUC Sets BHE Large Non-Residential Default Service Rate
The Maine PUC issued an order yesterday establishing the Standard Offer price for the large non-residential class at Bangor Hydro-Electric for December 2011.
Avista's Ecova Acquires Broker, Energy Manager Prenova
Ecova, the recently rebranded Advantage IQ, has announced its intent to acquire Prenova, Inc., a privately-held enterprise energy management company headquartered in Atlanta
Residential Migration Growth Drops Significantly at JCPL
Residential migration growth during the month of October declined significantly at Jersey Central Power & Light, but rebounded at Atlantic City Electric
Pa. OCA Seeks Fixed Price Hedge for Pike County Default Service
The Pennsylvania Office of Consumer Advocate is seeking to include a 1 MW fixed price hedge for on-peak residential default supply at Pike County Light and Power, in contrast to the utility's proposal to continue to rely exclusively on the spot market for default service needs
November 22
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio approved, without modification at this time, an unopposed stipulation to establish an electric security plan governing default service at Duke Energy Ohio for the period January 1, 2012 through May 31, 2015, though PUCO expressed concerned about the use of multiple descending clock auctions per year to procure future Standard Service Offer supplies.
PUCO Approves AES-DPL Merger With Retail Market Enhancements
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio approved this morning, through adoption of several stipulations, the acquisition of DPL Inc., and its subsidiary, The Dayton Power and Light Company, by the AES Corporation
• Burton Energy Group Receives Mass. Broker License
• Global Power Consultants Receives Mass. Broker License
Sperian Energy Launches Residential Service at PECO on PA Power Switch
Sperian Energy has launched residential electric service at PECO on PA Power Switch
ERCOT Draft Would Expand EILS to Include Distributed Generation
ERCOT has issued for comment draft amendments to P.U.C. Substantive Rule 25.507, which would, among other things, expand the current Emergency Interruptible Load Service (EILS) program to include distributed generation.
Calif. Draft Revised Again to Exclude Some Small Commercial Customers from ESP Security Calculation
A fourth revision to a California PUC proposed decision regarding electric service provider security requirements would exclude certain small commercial accounts from triggering heightened security requirements for electric service providers, while also deferring to a subsequent proceeding the definition of small commercial customer
D.C. OPC Seeks 30 Days Notice Prior to Restart of Horizon Marketing Efforts
The District of Columbia Office of People's Counsel asked the District of Columbia PSC to require that Horizon Power & Light give 30 days' notice to the PSC before Horizon resumes sales calls in the District.
SEMCO Energy Gas Warns Customers of "Possible Deceptive Marketing" by Gas Suppliers
SEMCO Energy Gas Company yesterday alerted customers of what it called, "possible deceptive marketing tactics" targeting residential and business gas customers in its service areas
Direct Energy Offers Affinity Program with The Pittsburgh Promise
Direct Energy has partnered with The Pittsburgh Promise to offer employees and students' families of the Pittsburgh Public Schools discounted electricity
PUCT Opens Docket to Review Reconnection Rules
The PUCT has assigned Project 39926 for a rulemaking proceeding to amend PUC Subst. R. §25.483 to review reconnection of service.
November 21
Met-Ed, Penelec, Penn Power and West Penn Power have proposed a joint default service plan which relies exclusively on 24-month contracts for the full requirements portion of the portfolio, and which includes a bypassable retail adder in the Price to Compare
WGES Again Sees Marginal Net Decline in Customers
For the fourth fiscal quarter of 2011, WGL Holdings' retail energy-marketing segment reported operating earnings of $11.7 million, up from $5.9 million for the same quarter of the prior fiscal year.
People's Power & Gas Seeks Georgia License
• GDF Suez Retail Energy Solutions Receives Ohio License
• Alternative Utility Services, Inc. Receives Ohio Gas Broker License
• Maryland PSC Fines SourceOne $100, Grants Gas Broker License
BGE Seeks to Temporarily Decrease Late Payment Charges, Affecting POR Discount
Baltimore Gas & Electric has asked the Maryland PSC to approve, on a temporary basis, lower late payment charge factors for electric and gas service, due to a transition to a new billing system.
N.J. BPU Staff to Review BGS Reconciliation Charge, Process
Prompted by comments from the Rate Counsel, the New Jersey BPU Staff is initiating an informal stakeholder process to review each of the electric utility's Basic Generation Service (BGS) reconciliation charges
NRG Energy Acquires Distributed Solar Provider Solar Power Partners
NRG Energy, Inc. announced this morning that it has acquired San Francisco-based Solar Power Partners, a developer of commercial and industrial distributed solar projects.
Stream to Pay $20,000 to Resolve Investigation of Texas Complaints
Stream Spe, Ltd. would pay $20,000 under a settlement with PUCT Staff to resolve allegations that Stream, "in certain limited instances," was not in compliance with several provisions of the Substantive Rules.
Young Energy to Pay $18,000 to Settle PUCT Staff Compliance Audit
Young Energy would pay $18,000 under a settlement with PUCT Staff to resolve allegations that Young Energy was not in full compliance with 10 provisions of the Substantive Rules
• N.H. Electric Cooperative Customers Ask to be Served by National Grid
• Maryland Sets Hearing on Gap RFP Shortfalls
• From the Archives: North American Power Eyeing Launch of Gas Marketing in Three States in Early/Mid 2012
• From the Archives: Ohio Gas Migration Data as of Sept. 2011
November 18
Connecticut Light and Power Files New Standard Service, Last Resort Service Rates
Connecticut Light and Power has submitted new Standard Service rates for the calendar year 2012, and new Last Resort Service rates for the three-month period beginning January 1, 2012
Flash: Direct Energy Reports PPL Customer Count
Direct Energy reported this morning its residential customer count at PPL, as well as its business customer count for all of Pennsylvania.
Duquesne Light Files New Default Service Rate
Duquesne Light has filed updated default service rate information for the period beginning January 1, 2012.
Vista Energy Marketing Seeks Illinois License
• GDF Suez Retail Energy Solutions Seeks Maine License
• Clear Choice Electricity Receives Maryland Broker License
• Global Montello Group Receives Maryland Broker License
Liberty Power Files Complaint Over Application of Minimum Stay at Pepco
Liberty Power Corporation has filed a complaint with the District of Columbia PSC regarding the application of the SOS minimum stay rule to a non-residential customer, as Liberty sought an order from the PSC directing Pepco to enroll the customer with Liberty, among other relief.
Maryland PSC Supplier Offer Website Goes Live
The Maryland PSC has gone live with its website listing available electric offers in the market
FERC Drops Proposal Limiting Capacity Release by Affiliates
In a final rule, FERC has dropped its earlier proposal to require that, if more than one affiliate of the same entity participates in an interstate natural gas pipeline open season, then none of those affiliates may release any capacity obtained in that open season pursuant to a pro rata allocation to any affiliate, or otherwise allow any affiliate to obtain the use of the allowed capacity
FERC Maintains Inflated Capacity Prices
FERC denied rehearing on all but several minor points regarding its prior decision to inflate capacity prices in PJM by $3 billion by accepting a revised Minimum Offer Price Rule (MOPR), which, among other things, removed the exemption from the MOPR for capacity sellers who were not net short on capacity
• FERC Reports on Enforcement Actions
• MLB Approves Sale of Astros to CEO of Owner of Champion Energy
November 17
TXU Energy Launches EV-Focused TOU Plan
TXU has launched a new residential Time of Use product tailored for customers with electric vehicles or distributed solar generation
Six Pennsylvania Utilities See Weekly Residential Migration Growth Exceed 1,000 Accounts
Six of Pennsylvania's seven major electric distribution companies saw residential migration growth in excess of 1,000 accounts for the most recent week, according to the latest stats form the Pennsylvania PUC
United Illuminating Files Default Service Rates for 2012
United Illuminating has filed Standard Service rates for the year 2012, and Last Resort Service rates for the three-month period beginning January 1, 2012
Connecticut Light & Power Migration Growth Slows in October
Connecticut Light & Power has posted migration statistics for the month of October 2011
Castlebridge Energy Seeks Show Cause Order Over Delay in Supplier Testing at BGE
Castlebridge Energy Group, LLC requested that the Maryland PSC order Baltimore Gas & Electric to show cause why a delay in testing new gas suppliers' communication with BGE via Extensible Markup Language (XML), which is a pre-requisite to serve customers, is not unreasonable
BlueStar Energy Solutions Acquires TruBrite Energy Management
BlueStar Energy Solutions announced this morning that it has acquired TruBrite Energy Management
Winners of October FirstEnergy Ohio Default Service Auction Published
Consistent with prior direction from PUCO, CRA International submitted an unredacted list of winning bidders in the FirstEnergy Ohio utilities' default service auction held in October.
• UtiliTech Seeks Ohio Broker License
• Dynamic Energy Receives Ohio Broker License
• Consumer Energy Solutions Receives Maryland Gas Broker License
• Hospital Energy Services Receives Maryland Gas Broker License
• Conn. Draft Would Grant License to Noble Americas Energy Solutions
Liberty Power to Pay $5,000 to Settle Maine Staff Investigation
Liberty Power will pay $5,000 under an agreement approved by the Maine PUC to resolve a Staff investigation
• IntelliGen Resources to Pay $20,000 for RRS Shortfall
• WGES, 3Degrees Named DOE Green Power Suppliers of the Year
November 16
Pennsylvania Removes Information from Eligible Customer Lists
The Pennsylvania PUC has ordered that certain information be excluded from the eligible customer lists (ECL) provided by electric distribution companies (EDCs) to electric generation suppliers (EGSs), in an order published yesterday
PECO Prices to Compare to Decrease January 1
PECO has posted updated electric Price to Compare information for the three-month period beginning January 1, 2012
ComEd Residential Migration Jumps by 50,000 in October
Residential customers at Commonwealth Edison who have switched to a competitive supplier and completed at least one billing cycle on competitive supply increased by over 50,000 during the month of October, according to the latest statistics from the Illinois Commerce Commission
Spark Energy Seeks Expanded Pa. License
• Supermarket Procurement Co-op Topco Associates Seeks Illinois ABC License
• EMEX Power Seeks Ohio Broker License
• Partners in Energy Management Seeks Illinois ABC License
PSNH Proposes Nonbypassable Alternative for Recovery of Above-Market PPAs
Public Service Company of New Hampshire has proposed an alternative cost recovery methodology for the above-market costs of PPAs it is seeking to execute with several wood-burning IPPs
Stream Energy Customers May Pay Bills at Wal-Mart Under Exclusive Program
Stream Energy announced this morning that its customers are now able to pay their electric bill at any Wal-Mart store in Texas
Constellation, Marriott Sign Load Response Agreement for 250 Properties
Constellation Energy and Marriott International, Inc. announced this morning an agreement to develop over 23 megawatts of load response capability across more than 250 Marriott-managed hotel properties in the mid-Atlantic, New England, New York, Texas and California
A draft California PUC decision (A. 11-06-004) would require Pacific Gas and Electric to file a petition for modification of the decision establishing its Power Charge Indifference Amount (PCIA) for 2012 within 60 days of the issuance of a decision in R.07-05-025, where changes to the methodology used to determine the PCIA are being addressed
• FERC Approves AES-DPL Merger
• From the Archives: New York Reports June Migration Data
November 15
MVC Affiliate to Acquire Plymouth Rock Energy, Falcon Energy
MVC Private Equity Fund, LP is in the process of acquiring substantial membership interests of the parent of ESCOs Plymouth Rock Energy, LLC and Falcon Energy, LLC
United Illuminating Posts October Migration Data
United Illuminating has posted migration data for the month of October 2011
Dominion East Ohio Sees Choice Enrollments Drop by 25,000
More than 25,000 residential customers left competitive supply at Dominion East Ohio during the three months ended September 2011, compared to the total as of June 2011, according to newly posted migration data from PUCO.
Switch Holds Decrease at TNMP, Growth Slows Elsewhere
The total number of switch holds applicable to customers as part of entering into a deferred payment plan with a retail electric provider fell at Texas-New Mexico Power in the month of October, while the net growth of accounts subject to a switch hold decreased in all other ERCOT service areas
• The DC Project Seeks Maryland Broker License
• Clarity Energy Consulting Seeks Ohio Broker License
• TES Energy Services Receives Expanded Pa. Broker License
• Energy Professionals, LLC Receives Ohio Gas Broker License
Load Overpays PJM Generators due to Software Error, Overpayments Extend Beyond Re-billing Limit
PJM has been over-paying Balancing Operating Reserve Lost Opportunity Cost credits to generators for an extended period of time which extends beyond the two-year limit for adjusting billing statements, it reported to FERC.
RESA Says Allocating Price Responsive Demand Credits to LSEs Ensures Accurate Capacity Procurement
PJM's proposal to limit the allocation of Price Responsive Demand credits to the load-serving entity which serves the load engaging in Price Responsive Demand is not anti-competitive or unjust and unreasonable, the Retail Energy Supply Association said in an answer at FERC
Exelon, Constellation Expect FERC to Take Additional Time for Merger Review
Exelon and Constellation now believe that FERC will take additional time to consider their pending merger application and proposed settlement with the PJM market monitor, the companies said in an SEC filing yesterday
• Pricelock Expands Online Brokering to Canada
• Ampegy Launches Charitable Giving Program
November 14
North American Power Eyeing Launch of Gas Marketing in Three States in Early/Mid 2012
North American Power intends to launch natural gas service in three states in the early to middle part of next year, as it named Paul Rossi as Vice President of its new natural gas division
Most Texans Unfamiliar with Non-Affiliated REPs
Most Texas customers are unfamiliar with REPs other than the former affiliated REPs, survey results filed by AEP Texas Commercial & Industrial Retail Limited Partnership show
Illinois Approves Purchase of Uncollectibles at Ameren
The Illinois Commerce Commission has approved tariffs at Ameren Illinois to implement Purchase of Uncollectibles
Tentative Pennsylvania Order Would Require Suppliers to Meet Deadline in Submission of Switches
Pennsylvania electric suppliers would be required to submit switches to electric distribution companies (EDCs) prior to a customer-specific deadline under the PUC's tentative order to accelerate the switching process
Duquesne Light Anticipates Moving Residential Default Service to Full Requirements Contracts
Duquesne Light anticipates relying on competitively bid full requirements contracts to serve residential customers under its next default service plan (POLR VI), it said in recent comments to the Pennsylvania PUC
Calif. PUC Approves Greater Access to Customer Info. for CCAs
The California PUC approved a final resolution allowing community choice aggregators (CCAs), and communities studying CCA implementation, to receive additional customer information from Pacific Gas & Electric (1/7).
PUC Approves New Default Service Rates at UGI
The Pennsylvania PUC approved new electric default service rates at UGI Utilities, effective for the three-month period starting December 1, 2011
November 11
AEP Retail Energy Offers to Use Disclaimer in Texas, But Main Problem Remains
In direct testimony concerning its REP certificate amendment, AEP Texas Commercial & Industrial Retail Limited Partnership has offered to use a disclaimer in advertisements, on its website, and on business cards concerning its relationship to the AEP Texas distribution companies, but this would not resolve what Matters sees as the central issue in the case
Pa. PUC Says EDC-Affiliated Suppliers Showing Up at Customer Doors Right Before Switches
The Pennsylvania PUC "is hearing anecdotally" that customers who call their electric distribution company for a meter read, in preparation for starting competitive supply, are being visited by the EDC's competitive affiliate in a last-ditch effort to win the customer
Court Rules TDUs Cannot Charge REPs for Lost Revenues from Energy Efficiency
The PUCT is not authorized to allow TDUs to charge REPs for lost TDU revenues as a result of the TDU's statutorily required energy efficiency programs, and the Commission appropriately declined to grant the TDUs such a Lost Revenue Adjustment Mechanism (LRAM), the Third Court of Appeals of Texas found yesterday.
Direct Energy to Acquire Home Warranty of America
Direct Energy has reached an agreement to acquire Home Warranty of America (HWA), a supplier of whole home protection plans across the United States, for $48 million (£30 million) in cash.
PECO Seeing 300 Rescissions Per Week
About 300 customers per week ask PECO to rescind a supplier switch submitted for the customer, PECO reported during a Pennsylvania PUC hearing on retail markets.
Integrys Energy Services Receives D.C. Gas License
• SourceOne Seeks Maine Broker License
• Alternative Utility Services Receives Pa. Broker License
• EnerNOC Receives Texas Aggregator Certificate
Cawley Asks if Default Order of Electric Offers on PA Power Switch Should Change
During a retail markets hearing yesterday, Pennsylvania PUC Commissioner James Cawley asked stakeholders whether the default order of retail electric offers on PA Power Switch should be modified
PUCT's Anderson Expands on Issues for Resource Adequacy and Shortage Pricing
PUCT Commissioner Kenneth Anderson has expanded on the "comprehensive and holistic" approach that should be taken to resolve the resource adequacy and shortage pricing issues in the ERCOT market which includes measures beyond simply the recent floors for Non-Spin Reserve Service (NSRS)
• Sharyland to File Rate Case for Delivery Tariffs in New Choice Areas
• PUCT Approves Oncor AMS Reconciliation
November 10
PUCT's Nelson Gives Notice That Revocation is Preferred Solution for Non-Compliant REPs
PUCT Chairman Donna Nelson put REPs on notice that the she will not offer to help REPs which run afoul of the Commission's certification rules in the future, saying that she regretted granting time for dPi Energy to come into compliance rather than revoking the certificate
YEP Energy Receives Pennsylvania Supplier License
• Xoom Energy Seeks to Serve Residential, Commercial Gas Customers at Four Illinois LDCs
• South Jersey Energy Company Receives Ohio Electric License
• MRL Energy Receives Maine License
Flash: Pa. PUC Issues Tentative Order to Accelerate Customer Switching Timeline
The Pennsylvania PUC this morning voted to issue a Tentative Order, for public comment, containing proposed interim guidelines to accelerate the switching process for electric customers
PPL Residential Migration Growth Nears 3,000 for Week
Continuing its recovery, residential migration at PPL for the most recent week neared 3,000 customers, the highest total in months.
Nstar Seeks 24 Month Reconciliation of Nstar Green Under-recovery
Nstar is seeking to recover the latest under-recovery of its Nstar Green optional generation product over a 24-month period, rather than the 12-month period contemplated in a prior DPU order.
PUCT Adopts Standard Form Prepaid Disclosure Statement
The PUCT approved a final Prepaid Disclosure Statement for REPs, adopting Staff's latest proposal without substantive modification
ERCOT Files NPRRs to Mitigate Price Suppression During Reserve Deployments
ERCOT has filed several Nodal Protocol Revision Requests aimed at mitigating price suppression during the deployment of reserve services in order to more accurately reflect the value of the service
PJM Seeks Declaratory Order to Allocate Costs of ITC Phase Angle Regulators
PJM has sought a declaratory order from FERC to resolve uncertainty regarding how PJM should recover from its members the costs allocated to PJM by FERC for certain phase angle regulator (PAR) transmission facilities to be installed by International Transmission Company on ITC's transmission system in the Midwest ISO
• WGES to Supply Baltimore Regional Cooperative Purchasing Committee
• ERCOT Receives Notification of Suspension of Operations for DOW_G62
• From the Archives: Illinois Migration Data from August, September
November 9
Verde Energy Launches Met-Ed/Penelec Offers on PA Power Switch
Verde Energy USA, Inc. has launched residential electric offers at Met-Ed and Penelec on PA Power Switch
South Jersey Energy Co. Reports Higher Economic Earnings
South Jersey Energy Company recorded economic earnings of $1 million for the quarter ending September 30, 2011, up from $400,000 a year ago, parent South Jersey Industries reported yesterday
Consumers Energy's Russell Sees No Future for Choice Cap Expansion Legislation
CMS Energy and Consumers Energy President and CEO John Russell does not expect legislation to raise Michigan's electric choice cap to gain any traction
• Qvinta Energy Services Seeks D.C. Gas Broker License
• H.P. Technologies Receives Ohio Electric Broker License
Launch of "CenterPoint Energy Electric Price Index" Needlessly Conflates Electric Utility, Broker
Readers of the Houston Chronicle, or its Fuel Fix blog, will have noted that CenterPoint Energy has recently launched on FuelFix and the Sunday Chronicle the "CenterPoint Energy Electric Price Index," which essentially tracks costs under fixed rate contracts of various lengths
Just Energy Sees Flat Gross Margin for Retail Supply Business
Just Energy Group Inc. reported Adjusted EBITDA of $47.9 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011 (second fiscal quarter of 2012), up from $37.5 million a year ago, largely driven by increased gross margin from Just Energy's home services and ethanol businesses (all figures Canadian).
UGI Reports Higher Margin from Retail Supply, Expand to Residential Gas Marketing
UGI's Midstream & Marketing segment reported lower net income for the full fiscal year of 2011 of $52.5 million, versus $68.2 million for the prior fiscal year.
TC Ravenswood Seeks FERC Preemption of N.Y. PSC Black-Start Order
TC Ravenswood has filed a complaint at FERC regarding the New York PSC's September order that generators are required to obtain the PSC's consent, pursuant to Public Service Law (PSL) §70, to discontinue blackstart service
• United Illuminating Reports Last Resort Supplier
• ConEdison Solutions Officially Launches Met-Ed/Penelec Residential Offers
November 8
Flash: Just Energy Customer Growth Steady
In reporting earnings this morning, Just Energy said that its customer count as of September 30, 2011 stood at 3.403 million Residential Customer Equivalents
FirstEnergy Utilities Intend to Propose Opt-In Retail Auction in Next Default Service Plan
Met-Ed, Penelec, Penn Power, and West Penn Power "anticipate proposing an opt-in offering for non-shopping residential customers," in their upcoming default service plan petition, which will likely cover the period June 1, 2013 through May 31, 2015
OSBA: Retail Opt-In Auction Unlawful Under Pennsylvania Law
A retail opt-in auction in Pennsylvania would be "unlawful" because it would prevent the offering of default service at the, "least cost to customers over time," as required by statute, the Office of Small Business Advocate said in comments to the PUC
Hard End Date to Pa. Default Service Contracts Risks Repeat of Pike County Experience, OCA Says
Requiring all short-term default service contracts in Pennsylvania to have an end date on or before May 31, 2015, "would not adequately protect default service customers from the risk of purchasing under adverse market conditions," the Pennsylvania Office of Consumer Advocate said in response to a tentative PUC order
• Young Energy Seeks to Add Trade Name 5Linx
• Power2Switch Seeks Ohio Broker License
• APPI Seeks D.C. Broker License
• Maneri-Agraz Seeks Ohio Broker License
• Smartcom Energy Technologies Receives Amended Texas REP Certificate
Superior Plus Retail Supply Business Lifted by Improved Pricing, Operational Results
Superior Plus' fixed-price energy services business generated gross profits of $9.5 million for the third quarter of 2011, compared to $6.9 million in the prior year quarter (all figures Canadian).
NYISO Seeks More Time for Local Capacity Market Power Mitigation Measures
The New York ISO has asked FERC for more time to develop additional market power mitigation measures that NYISO believes are required as part of implementing new local capacity zones, as directed by a recent FERC order
Dynegy Subsidiaries File for Bankruptcy
Subsidiary Dynegy Holdings, LLC and four of its wholly owned subsidiaries -- Dynegy Northeast Generation, Inc., Hudson Power, L.L.C., Dynegy Danskammer, L.L.C. (Danskammer) and Dynegy Roseton, L.L.C. (Roseton) -- have filed for bankruptcy under Chapter 11.
• Sharyland Choice Expansion to Proceed to Hearings
• Bueller? GDF SUEZ Energy Resources NA Lunch Features Ben Stein
• Boralex Sells Wood-Fired Assets
• From the Archives: New Jersey Reports August, September Migration
November 7
NextEra Reports Negative Impact on Gexa from August Weather
Gexa Energy earnings were lower by about $21 million for the three months ended September 30, 2011, versus the year-ago quarter, due to the extreme hot weather in Texas during the month of August, parent NextEra Energy said Friday
BGE Posts New SOS Price Comparisons for Small Customers, Type II Rates
Baltimore Gas & Electric has filed with the Maryland PSC new Type II SOS rates for the period three-month period beginning December 1, 2011, and updated SOS price comparison information for mass market customers
Vectren Source Reports Customer Growth
Vectren Source reported a seasonal loss of $3.6 million in the third quarter of 2011, consistent with the year-ago loss of $3.5 million
Ameren is "staying active" in the Illinois retail electric market, executives said during an earnings call Friday
South Jersey Energy Co. Seeks Expanded Pa. License
• PA Gas Marketing Seeks Expanded Pennsylvania License
• Ultimate Energy Advisors Receives Maryland Broker License
• Tobelmann Energy Brokers Receives Maryland Broker License
SCANA Energy Reports Customer Churn for Last Three Months
Retail supplier SCANA Energy reported a seasonal loss of $4.3 million for the quarter ending September 30, 2011, versus a loss of $2.8 million a year ago
Constellation Poll Finds 78% of Pennsylvanians Willing to Shop for Savings of 10% or More
A statewide poll commissioned by Constellation Energy indicates that 78 percent of Pennsylvania residents would consider switching to a competitive electricity provider if it meant that they could save about 10 percent on the electricity generation portion of their utility bill, Constellation Energy announced this morning
FERC accepted, subject to additional compliance filings and creation of an interim measure, PJM's proposal that, for a load reduction to be recognized as having satisfied its capacity commitment, the load reduction must result in a metered load that is less than the customer's Peak Load Contribution
PUCT Staff File Draft Order to Adopt Prepaid Disclosure Statement
PUCT Staff filed a draft order adopting a standard form prepaid disclosure statement in Project 39357
November 4
Interstate Gas Supply Launches PECO Residential Offer
Interstate Gas Supply has begun offering residential electric service at PECO on PA Power Switch
NRG 10-Q Discloses Green Mountain Energy Customer Growth, Reliant Gross Margin Drivers
Green Mountain Energy's customer count grew by 14,000 from June 30, 2011 to September 30, 2011, parent NRG Energy disclosed in a 10-Q yesterday
CenterPoint Energy Services Studying Mass Market Expansion in East, Midwest Markets
CenterPoint Energy Services had been studying the expansion of its retail natural gas supply business to small volume customers prior to its purchase of Asgard Energy, and the purchase will give CenterPoint additional experience in serving small volume customers as it weighs expanding to the mass market, Eric Sullivan, Vice President of Marketing for CenterPoint Energy Services, told Matters yesterday
Net Migration Rate at Duke Energy Ohio Grows Marginally
Duke Energy's Commercial Power segment reported lower adjusted EBIT of $145 million for the third quarter, versus $155 million a year ago, due to the impacts of customer migration in its affiliated Ohio service area
Integrys Energy Services Earnings Lifted by Improved Margins, Lower Costs
Adjusted earnings at Integrys Energy Services were $7.7 million for the third quarter, reversing the year-ago loss of $300,000 in core earnings at the competitive unit.
AEP Retail Illinois Application Includes Residential Service
• Connecticut Gas & Electric Receives License
• Priority Power Management Receives Maryland Broker License
• Hospital Energy Services Receives Maryland Broker License
• Ollinger Global Power Consultants Registers as N.H. Aggregator
Illinois Commerce Commission Orders Two Brokers to Show Cause Why License Should Not Be Suspended
The Illinois Commerce Commission has opened two proceedings to investigate whether two electric brokers have failed to file an annual recertification report, and whether their ABC licenses should be suspended
PPL Cites "Very Positive" Experience with Retail Business to Date
Earnings from ongoing operations at PPL Corp.'s competitive Supply segment were $208 million for the third quarter of 2011, down from $260 million a year ago
• D.C. to Close Investigation of Portfolio Management for SOS
• World Energy Solutions Reports Increased Earnings
• TXU Energy Awarded Contract for Irving Convention Center
• Direct Energy Sponsorship Saves Harrisburg Holiday Parade
• From the Archives: D.C. PSC Posts August Gas Migration Data
November 3
FirstEnergy Pennsylvania Utilities See Significant Drop in Industrial Migration
Three of FirstEnergy's Pennsylvania distribution companies saw a significant decrease in industrial customer migration for the most recent week, according to the latest statistics from the Pennsylvania PUC
Reliant Energy Customer Growth Accelerates
Reliant Energy reported accelerated customer growth in the quarter ending September 30, 2011, parent NRG Energy reported this morning
CenterPoint Energy Services Acquires Marketer Asgard Energy
CenterPoint Energy Services, Inc. (CES) announced today that it acquired Asgard Energy, LLC effective November 1
AEP Retail Energy Seeks Illinois Electric License
• WhiteFence Seeks Pa. Broker License
• Constellation NewEnergy Receives Authority to Serve Residential Gas Customers in Md.
• Rapid Power Management Receives Maryland Broker License
• TexRep6 Withdraws Request to Use Trade Name Smart Power
UGI Utilities to Start Purchase of Receivables Program on December 1
UGI Utilities. Inc. - Gas Division will commence its Purchase of Receivables program on December 1, 2011
SouthStar Energy Services Narrows Seasonal EBIT Loss
AGL saw its retail energy operations segment, consisting of SouthStar Energy Services, report a seasonal EBIT loss of $5 million for the third quarter of 2011, narrowing the year-ago EBIT loss of $9 million
Stream Energy Posts New Jersey Pricing
As previously reported, Stream Energy began enrollments in New Jersey on November 1, and pricing is now available
Performance of CenterPoint Competitive Retail Unit Continues to be Masked by Wholesale Losses
CenterPoint Energy's competitive natural gas sales and services business reported an operating loss of $10 million for the third quarter of 2011 compared to operating income of $7 million for the same period of 2010, largely due to the continuing unfavorable climate for the wholesale side of the business.
• D.C. Orders Base Rate Investigation at WGL
• CL&P Reports Standard Service Suppliers
• Pa. PUC Posts Agenda for Retail Market Hearing
• From the Archives: Delaware PSC Posts August Migration Data
November 2
Pepco Files New Residential, Commercial SOS Rates
Pepco has filed with the Maryland PSC new residential and Type I SOS rates for the period beginning June 1, 2012, and new Type II SOS rates for the period beginning December 1, 2011
Delmarva Files New Residential, Commercial SOS Rates
Delmarva Power has filed with the Maryland PSC new residential and Type I SOS rates for the period beginning June 1, 2012, and new Type II SOS rates for the period beginning December 1, 2011
FirstEnergy Solutions Growth in Direct Retail Sales Continues
Continuing the pace seen in the second quarter of 2011, direct retail sales by FirstEnergy Solutions in the third quarter of 2011 increased by two-thirds versus the year-ago quarter, FirstEnergy Corp. disclosed yesterday in reporting earnings
PSEG Lowers Migration Forecast for New Jersey
PSEG has revised downward its forecast of electric migration in New Jersey as a result of lower Basic Generation Service (BGS) prices which took effect June 1, and an increase in market prices for power.
Green Mountain Energy Seeks Waiver of Penalty for "Inadvertent" Withholding of New York Capacity
Green Mountain Energy Company has petitioned FERC for a limited, one-time waiver of a New York ISO tariff provision requiring penalties for the withholding of capacity, after Green Mountain said that it, "inadvertently withheld a small amount of capacity from the NYISO installed capacity ('ICAP') market," in May and June 2011
Ohio to Reconsider Licensing Requirements for Consultants, Denies Complaint Against Palmer Energy
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio said that it is appropriate to explore further distinguishing the activities of consultants versus brokers, and suggested that the matter should be addressed in a future rulemaking, as the Commission denied a complaint against Palmer Energy Company filed by Buckeye Energy Brokers, Inc.
Nicor Cites "Real Potential" for Illinois Electric Business
During an earnings call, Nicor said that it sees "real potential" for its new electric commodity marketing business in Illinois, which is conducted pursuant to a marketing agreement with Dominion Retail
• PUCT Assigns Docket Number to Modify REP Application Form
• Cirro Energy Launches Mobile Website
• Direct Energy Closes First Choice Power Acquisition
November 1
Internal PUCT Staff Memo Recommends Fine Against Glacial Energy, Revocation Cited
An internal memo dated August 31, 2011 from the PUCT's Oversight and Enforcement Division recommended an administrative penalty against Glacial Energy for several alleged violations relating to its original REP application and ongoing ownership.
World Energy Solutions Acquires GSE Consulting
World Energy Solutions, Inc. announced this morning that it has purchased GSE Consulting, LP for approximately $8.6 million at closing plus a potential earn-out.
Resident Power Launches First Residential Aggregation in New Hampshire
Resident Power, a mass market aggregator active in New England, says that it has acquired a sufficient number of participants for its initial aggregation pool in New Hampshire and has begun enrolling customers with competitive suppliers
Potomac Edison Files New SOS Rates
Potomac Edison (Allegheny/FirstEnergy) has filed new Type II SOS rates for the three month period beginning December 1.
Pepco, Delmarva Seek Maryland PSC Order on Cost Allocation for Long-Term Contracts
Pepco and Delmarva Power have sought rehearing of the Maryland's PSC order issuing an RFP for 1,500 MW of new capacity, arguing that the Commission must address several threshold issues, including cost recovery, prior to issuing an RFP.
PPL Posts Results from Default Service Procurement
PPL Electric Utilities has posted results from its October 18, 2011 procurement of default service supplies
Maryland SOS Procurement Sees Significant Increase in Bidder Participation
Maryland's recent RFP for SOS supplies for the residential and Type I classes saw a significant improvement in bidder participation versus the October 2010 procurement, bid monitor Boston Pacific said in testimony
Start-up Ardent Natural Gas Seeks Michigan License
• Sustainable Star Delaware License Expanded to Include Retail Supply Service
• TexRep6 Seeks to Change Name, Add Smart Power Trade Name
• Elan Energy Seeks to Withdraw REP Certificate
• Hearing Date Pushed Back for Consideration of Use of AEP Trade Name by Mass Market REP
• Calif. PUC Re-posts Revised Draft on ESP Security Requirements
October 31
Constellation Launches Residential Offer at FirstEnergy Ohio
Constellation Energy this morning launched a residential electric offer at Cleveland Electric Illuminating, Ohio Edison, and Toledo Edison
• Tomorrow's Utilities Receives Expanded Pa. Broker License
• Energy Management Resources Receives Expanded Pa. Broker License
• Muirfield Energy Receives Expanded Pa. Broker License
Dominion Retail Reports Quarterly Loss on ERCOT Weather
Dominion Retail reported a loss before interest and taxes of $1 million for the quarter ending September 30, 2011, due to the need to purchase incremental power for its ERCOT retail business at peak prices
Residential Migration Growth Steady at JCPL, PSE&G; ACE Sees Slowdown
Growth rates for residential migration at Jersey Central Power & Light and Public Service Electric & Gas were steady during the month of September, but dropped significantly at Atlantic City Electric
Residential Gas Customers Leaving Competitive Supply at PSE&G
From July to September, Public Service Electric and Gas saw a decrease in its residential natural gas accounts served by competitive suppliers.
WGL, Columbia See Lower Migration Rates for Quarter Ending Sept. 30
Choice enrollments at Washington Gas Light and Columbia Gas in Maryland decreased during the three months ended September 30, 2011, versus the migration as of June 30, 2011.
Niagara Mohawk Migration Drops Significantly in Latest PSC Report
Residential electric migration at Niagara Mohawk dropped significantly from May 2011 to June 2011, according to new statistics posted by the New York PSC.
Constellation Enjoying Higher Margins from Wholesale Business as Retail Space Becomes Crowded
Constellation's NewEnergy segment reported adjusted earnings of $46 million for the third quarter, reversing a year-ago loss of $14 million, on strong results from wholesale load serving contracts, and the absence of year-ago charges
TXU Expects Higher Retail Pricing due to ERCOT Conditions
Wholesale prices in ERCOT have to recognize scarcity of generation assets, "and that will eventually flow through to the retail business," Energy Future Holdings CEO John Young said during an earnings call Friday.
Calpine: Choice in Texas Retail Market is "Long-Term" Issue Challenging ERCOT Build
In the latest and most brash example yet of the desire of competitive generation owners to restrict customer choice, Calpine COO Thad Hill said during an earnings call that retail choice in Texas puts negative pressure on new build in ERCOT, and lamented that there is no "serious dialogue" on this issue
PUCT Staff Posts Calculation of ERCOT Installed Capacity
PUCT Staff have posted in Project 39870 an estimate of the installed generating capacity in ERCOT, including the estimated total used for the "small fish swim free" market power exemption under P.U.C Subst. R. 25.504(c).
October 28
Flash: Residential Churn at TXU Energy Nears 50,000 for Quarter
Residential churn accelerated at TXU Energy for the three months ending September 30, 2011, versus both the sequential quarter and the year-ago quarter.
Constellation Energy Considering Building New Peakers in ERCOT
The extreme summer in ERCOT has prompted Constellation Energy to consider the construction of new peaking generation, executives said on an earnings call
• Alpha Gas and Electric Receives Pennsylvania License
• TexRep6 Maintains REP Certificate
DPL Energy Resources Serving 85% of Migrated Sales at Dayton Power & Light
DPL Energy Resources is serving 85% of migrated sales at affiliate Dayton Power & Light as of the quarter ending September 30, 2011, DPL Inc. reported in a 10-Q.
Respond Power Launches Residential Offer at Duquesne Light
Respond Power LLC has begun offering residential electricity at Duquesne Light on PA Power Switch
Bounce Energy Offering A/C, Electricity Fixtures Warranty Bundle to ERCOT Customers
Bounce Energy is now offering customers in ERCOT warranty products, for electricity fixtures and air conditioning units, from Cross Country Home Services.
Energy Plus Natural Gas Posts Ohio Residential Pricing
Energy Plus Natural Gas LP has posted on the PUCO Apples to Apples charts pricing for new residential natural gas offers in Ohio
October 27
PUCT Majority Agrees on New Non-Spin Price Floors for ERCOT
The PUCT agreed, by a 2-1 margin, to set new offer floors for Non-Spinning Reserve Service
Maryland PSC Weighs Future of Columbia Gas Choice Program
The Maryland PSC yesterday took under advisement the future of the Columbia Gas choice program, declining to issue from the bench an order on Columbia's recommendation to cease the program and suppliers' proposal to continue the program
During an earnings call yesterday, Exelon CEO John Rowe continued a victory lap on recent, yet unapproved, settlements at Duke Energy Ohio and AEP Ohio that would require both utilities to begin procuring 100% of capacity for customers through the Reliability Pricing Model in 2015
During September, Potomac Edison (FirstEnergy/Allegheny) saw its second straight month of reduced residential migration in its service area.
Texas Commissioners Reach Agreement on Prepaid Disclosure Statement, Worksheet
PUCT Commissioners have all agreed with Staff's proposed worksheet to be added to the Prepaid Disclosure Statement to address the disclosure of TDU discretionary charges
The PUCT, with several clarifying revisions, adopted Staff's latest proposal for adoption for amendments to customer protection rules and the retail delivery tariff relating to advanced meters
PPL Residential Migration Continues Recovery
PPL residential migration continues to recover after a month of declines.
Tenaska Bill Still Alive Despite Senate Vote
The Illinois Senate today voted down the latest version of the Tenaksa clean coal bill (SB 678), but the measure is still alive.
PUCO Approves FirstEnergy Ohio Default Service Auction Results
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio accepted the results from an October auction to determine default service rates at the FirstEnergy Ohio utilities for the period June 1, 2012 through May 31, 2013.
Customer Migration Greater than Forecast by AEP Ohio
Customer switching in Ohio accounted for a reduction in gross margin of $37.4 million at AEP Ohio during the third quarter of 2011, AEP disclosed in reporting earnings yesterday.
Exelon Generation Adjusted Results Lifted by Texas Weather, Expired PECO PPA
Exelon's Generation unit, which includes the results from its competitive retail sales operations, posted higher adjusted earnings of $522 million for the third quarter, up from $499 million a year ago.
PUCO Removes All POLR Charges from AEP Ohio Rates
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio accepted tariffs from AEP Ohio eliminating all POLR charges from current rates effective with the first billing cycle of November 2011
October 26
MC Squared Energy Services Launches ComEd Residential Service with Custom Pricing
As expected, MC Squared Energy Services, LLC has launched residential electricity service at Commonwealth Edison.
Ambit Begins Offering Service at Duquesne Light
Ambit Energy has begun offering residential and commercial electric service at Duquesne Light.
Oasis Energy Begins Offering Service at Duquesne Light
Oasis Energy has begun offering residential electric service at Duquesne Light.
Residential Customers Billed Under Competitive Supply Surpasses at 100,000 at ComEd
Over 100,000 residential electric customers at ComEd have switched to a competitive supplier and completed at least one billing cycle on competitive supply as of September 30, according to the latest statistics from the Illinois Commerce Commission
A revived bill to require Illinois utilities and retail suppliers to enter sourcing agreements with a clean coal facility, which will be Tenaska's Taylorville Energy Center, passed the Illinois Senate's Executive Committee yesterday, and is headed to the Senate floor
Met-Ed, Penelec, Penn Power Report Results from Default Service Procurements
Metropolitan Edison Company (Met-Ed) and Pennsylvania Electric Company (Penelec) have posted results from their recent RFP for full requirements commercial default service supply, and an RFP for residential block energy supply for those two utilities as well as Pennsylvania Power Company (Penn Power).
Source Power & Gas Receives Texas REP Certificate
• Suncom Energy Receives Maryland Broker License
• Energy Choice Risk Management Receives Ohio Broker License
• Demand Response Partners, Inc. Receives Ohio Broker License
Direct Energy Offers Ontario Commercial Plan Capping Market Rate Plus Global Adjustment
Direct Energy Business is offering to Ontario non-residential customers, for a limited time, a service called PowerAssure which Direct says removes the variability associated with the Global Adjustment.
• Entrance Software Offers Mobile App for CORE Customer Acquisition, Management Solution
• Load-Based Regulation Service Provider ENBALA Power Networks Receives MBR Authority
October 25
A settlement among most parties to establish Duke Energy Ohio's procurement and pricing of the Standard Service Offer (SSO) for the period January 1, 2012 through May 31, 2015 forces certain retail suppliers to subsidize their competitors, by jettisoning an innovative proposal to remove capacity from the generation rate, and instead instituting reliance on the PJM capacity auction for the 2015-16 delivery year
Infinite Energy Expands to Three More ERCOT Service Areas
Infinite Energy has expanded its electric offers in ERCOT to include service at AEP Texas Central, AEP Texas North, and Texas-New Mexico Power.
CenterPoint Energy Services Seeks Pa. Broker License
• Option One Energy Receives Delaware Broker License
• SIMEC Receives Delaware Broker License
• The Legacy Energy Group Seeks Ohio Broker License
Maryland Energy Marketers Coalition Asks for Temporary Delay to Test Maryland Supplier Price Portal
The Maryland Energy Marketers Coalition has asked the Maryland PSC to temporarily delay the requirement that retail electric suppliers begin using the PSC's new pricing web portal to allow testing of the system.
PUCT Staff File Proposed Prepaid Disclosure Statement Worksheet Language
PUCT Staff have proposed language for a worksheet to accompany the standard Prepaid Disclosure Statement, which is meant to inform customers of non-recurring TDU charges associated with initiating service without listing the fees on the disclosure statement itself
Sylvester Turner Seeks Additional Data Related to Switch Holds
State Representative Sylvester Turner has requested that the PUCT collect more information regarding switch holds placed on customers by REPs, including the length of any disconnection for a customer subject to a switch hold.
• APNA Holdings Seeks to Add Trade Name Boost Electric
• PUCT Staff Recommend Approval of New Owner for dPi Energy
• AEP Names Akins CEO
EPSA Releases Principles for Organized Markets
EPSA yesterday released a set of policy principles for organized wholesale power markets
October 24
Stream Energy Enters New Jersey Market
Stream Energy has announced its expansion into New Jersey
ConEdison Solutions, Dominion Retail Launch Penelec Residential Offers
ConEdison Solutions and Dominion Retail have each begun offering residential electric service at Penelec on PA Power Switch
GDF Suez Retail Energy Solutions Seeks Pennsylvania License
• Agway Energy Services Seeks to Add Territory to Pa. Gas License
• Verdigris Energy Seeks Illinois ABC License
• Nordic Energy Services to Serve All Customer Classes in Maryland
• Integrys Energy Services to Serve All Classes of Maryland Gas Customers
Residential Gas Migration Growth Slows at Two Pa. Territories, Decline Accelerates in Others
On a statewide basis, the growth in Pennsylvania residential gas migration slowed by two-thirds for the third quarter of the year, versus the second quarter, according to the latest Office of Consumer Advocate statistics
Constellation Energy Offering Affinity Program with Home Automation Provider Vivint
Constellation Energy announced this morning a new affinity partnership with Vivint, a home automation provider.
O'Malley Seeks "Best Price" Under Maryland Capacity RFP, Linking Contracts to SOS
Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley has asked the PSC to expand the current capacity RFP to include other types of generation aside from gas-fired assets, and to allow utility-owned generation to submit proposals
North American Power Reports September Maryland Enrollments
North American Power has filed with the Maryland PSC its compliance report for the month September, which lists the number of customers enrolled in Maryland during the month
Payless Power Begins Offering AMS-Based Prepaid Service, Post-pay Service Launching in November
Payless Power, a trade name for Young Energy, has begun offering AMS-based prepaid service in ERCOT
Rochester Gas & Electric Files Modified Divestiture Plan
Responding to a New York PSC order (see 7/15), Rochester Gas & Electric has submitted a modified auction plan to split the divestiture of its (and its affiliate Cayuga Energy's) gas-fired generation into separate auctions
Entergy to Purchase Rhode Island State Energy Center from NextEra
Entergy Corporation announced this morning that it has reached an agreement with a subsidiary of NextEra Energy Resources, LLC to acquire the Rhode Island State Energy Center
• Met-Ed/Penelec Start Sending Customer Referral Letters
• UGI Energy Services Now Marketing as UGI EnergyLink
• Sales Verification Changes name to TrustedTPV
• Pa. OCA Posts Electric Migration Stats as of October 1
October 21
The ERCOT TDUs have agreed to send personnel out to the field to complete Advanced Metering System (AMS) service requests on Saturday if they are unable to communicate with a provisioned advanced meter, PUCT Staff reported in offering clarifying revisions to its earlier proposal for adoption regarding new operational timelines for discretionary services resulting from the deployment of advanced meters
Nordic Energy Services Seeks Maryland License
• Integrys Energy Services Seeks Maryland Gas License
• Viridian Energy NG Receives Ohio Gas License
• People's Power & Gas Receives Delaware License
Electric choice customers in Michigan, "must be expected to help shoulder the burden" of certain utility generation costs for assets, "that must stand ready to serve Choice customers again," the Michigan PSC said in an order in Detroit Edison's rate case
Delaware Staff Recommend Rulemaking on Variable Rate Contracts
Delaware PSC Staff have recommended that the Commission consider reopening Regulation Docket 49 to revise the electric supplier rules to address the potential for residential and small commercial customers to mistakenly commit to variable rates for long terms
Calif. PUC Opens 2013 Local Resource Adequacy Rulemaking
The California PUC opened Rulemaking 11-10-023 to establish local resource adequacy (RA) procurement obligations, and make other refinements to the RA program, for the 2013 compliance year
FERC Adopts Final New Compensation Mechanism for Regulation Service
FERC yesterday adopted as final new rules for the compensation of regulation service in the jurisdictional RTOs, retaining a capacity payment and adding a performance-based payment
• Karthik Rajan Named VP of ERCOT Sales for GDF SUEZ Energy Resources NA
• Nordic Energy Services Offering Oak Brook Residents Price Below Municipal Aggregation Rate
• TXU Energy Offering New Customers Opportunity to Win Chevy Volt
• FERC Proposes to Collect More RTO Market Data
• FERC Sets Vermont Yankee De-list Bid for Hearing
October 20
Revised Calif. Draft Would Remove Some Procurement Costs from Retail Supplier Security Calculations
A California PUC agenda (draft) decision concerning electric service provider (ESP) security requirements would remove certain costs, for non-mass market customers, originally proposed to be included in the security requirements
PPL Sees Recovery in Residential Migration
PPL is again seeing weekly net growth in residential migration, according to the most recent Pennsylvania PUC statistics
Energy Plus Offering Residential Natural Gas in Ohio
Energy Plus Natural Gas LP has begun offering residential natural gas service in Ohio.
D.C. People's Counsel Requests Investigation of Horizon Power and Light
The District of Columbia Office of People's Counsel has requested that the D.C. PSC investigate a series of claims against Horizon Power and Light made by customers to OPC.
Bangor Hydro-Electric has informed the Maine PUC that it has committed a violation of Ch. 304 of the Commission's rules regarding Standards of Conduct, specifically relating to recommendations of competitive electricity providers, due to a quote from a BHE employee included in a third-party press release regarding BHE's large customer Standard Offer procurement
• Quest Energy Solutions Seeks Conn. Aggregator License
• RJT Energy Consultants Receives Maine Broker License
• Global Energy Market Services Receives Maine Broker License
• Hospital Energy Services Receives Maine Broker License
Stanford University has requested that the California PUC modify Decision 03-04-030 to clarify that loads that were served by customer generation prior to February 1, 2001 and that subsequently switch to direct access (DA) service are only obligated to pay DA cost responsibility surcharges (CRS) based on the amount of total annual power consumption previously provided by Pacific Gas & Electric pursuant to a standby contract
• Liberty Power Selected to Supply Philly Buying Power
• CL&P Reports Last Resort Service Supplier
• FirstEnergy Completes Sale of Peaking Units
• PURA Approves CL&P Procurement
October 19
Illinois Power Agency Modifies Default Service Procurement Plan Regarding Capacity, RECs, Clean Coal
In response to comments filed at the Illinois Commerce Commission, the Illinois Power Agency has modified its proposed default service plan, including the provisions related to long-term capacity, RECs, and clean coal contracting.
Viridian Reports Maryland Enrollments As of September 30
As of September 30, 2011, Viridian Energy was serving 24,087 active electric customers in Maryland, according to a compliance report filed with the PSC
Non-Advocate Staff Opposes PSNH Attempt to Place Energy Supply Costs in Distribution Rates
Non-advocate Staff of the New Hampshire PUC have opposed Public Service Company of New Hampshire's request to place energy supply-related costs in distribution rates, in order to mitigate above-market PPA costs, but Non-advocate Staff did offer some alternatives which would allow nonbypassable cost recovery for the PPAs
Conn. Draft Would Grant License to People's Power & Gas
• Alternative Utility Services Seeks Ohio Gas Broker License
• Global Energy Services Receives Ohio Broker License
• Renewable Resource Ventures Receives Ohio Broker License
PSNH Updates Projected Default Service, Alternative Default Service Rates
Public Service Company of New Hampshire has filed updated projections of its 2012 energy (default) service rate, and the alternative default energy service rate, to reflect costs of the Merrimack Scrubber Project which are now known.
Illinois Adopts Final New Broker Rules
The Illinois Commerce Commission recently adopted as final new rules related to agents, brokers, and consultants
• PUCO Sets Additional Comment Period for Smart Grid Privacy, Data Rules
• From the Archives: United Illuminating Reports September Migration Data
October 18
ConEd Recommends No Credit to Full Service Customers for Prior Transportation Under-deliveries
The New York PSC should not require Consolidated Edison to provide a credit to full service natural gas customers to make them whole for the costs borne due to historic under-deliveries from transportation customers, which resulted from an anomaly in the lost and unaccounted for gas mechanism, ConEd said in comments to the PSC
Georgia Natural Gas Launches SkyMiles Affinity Program
Georgia Natural Gas (SouthStar Energy Services) has launched an affinity program providing customers with Delta Air Lines SkyMiles.
OTC Global Holdings Involved in Start-up Source Power & Gas Ownership
Source Power & Gas LLC, which as only reported by Matters is seeking a Texas REP certificate (9/8), filed supplemental information at the PUCT which includes additional information on its ownership.
Xoom Energy Receives Conn. Supplier License
• Great American Power Seeks Expanded Pennsylvania Supplier License
• Quest Energy Solutions Seeks Ohio Broker License
• Usource Registers as N.H. Gas Aggregator
Ontario Posts New Regulated Price Plan Rates
The Ontario Energy Board has issued new Regulated Price Plan (RPP) electricity commodity prices for the period November 1, 2011 through April 30, 2012.
EnergyConnect, EnerNOC Seeking to Make Retail Suppliers Pay for Unused Capacity
EnergyConnect, Inc., and EnerNOC, Inc., have asked FERC to make retail suppliers and other load serving entities pay for capacity not needed due to Price Responsive Demand (PRD) in PJM, by requiring PJM to provide PRD capacity credits to the PRD providers, rather than the LSEs who are obligated to pay for the capacity associated with the PRD load
Generators Seek to Escape Tighter Credit Requirements
Fresh off scoring a victory which will needlessly add millions to retail electric rates, generators are now seeking to lighten their own credit burden under FERC's RTO credit "reform" order
Maine PUC Approves Long-Term Contracts at BHE
The Maine PUC directed Bangor Hydro-Electric to enter into long-term contracts for energy with three Community-Based Renewable Energy Projects.
From the Archives: Illinois Posts Migration Data as of August 31
October 17
Pennsylvania PUC to Order Utilities to Consider Longer-
The Pennsylvania PUC has tentatively ordered the electric distribution companies
(EDCs) to consider semi-
TIEC Says "Compromise" Non-
Imposing Non-
GDF Suez Mass Marketer Seeks Ohio Electric License
• South Jersey Energy Co. Receives Expanded Pennsylvania License
• Amerigreen Energy
Receives Expanded Pennsylvania License
• Shop My Power Receives Pa. Broker License
• Pa. PUC Dismisses Branded Retail Energy Co. Broker Application Without Prejudice
• Alphabuyer Receives
Pa. Gas Broker License
• 5Linx Enterprises Receives Pa. Broker License
• Insource Power Receives Pa. Broker License
• Dome-
• Consumer Energy Solutions Receives Expanded Pa. License
• Customer Acquisition Specialists of America Receives Expanded Pa
• PUCT Approves
Transfer of Twin Eagle Resource Management REP Certificate
Electric Suppliers May Begin Using Maryland PSC Price Portal by End of Month
The Maryland PSC has established a secure online portal to allow electricity suppliers with active offers available in the state to upload information required by recent legislation
Maryland PSC Staff See EV Service Providers as Needing License, Absent Legislative Exemption
Electric vehicle service providers and electric vehicle charging stations should
be regulated as electricity suppliers under PUA §1-
Switch Holds Remain Less than 1% of Residential ESI IDs in ERCOT
Electric vehicle service providers and electric vehicle charging stations should
be regulated as electricity suppliers under PUA §1-
MISO Says It Can't Require PLC Method of Capacity Allocation to Retail Suppliers
The Midwest ISO filed an answer at FERC attempting to justify its capacity cost allocation method for states with retail choice, but its arguments were strained or simply puzzling
• World Energy Solutions Purchases Northeast Energy Solutions
• Advantage IQ Merges
Services, Rebrands as Ecova
• Ontario Energy Board Adopts Final Gas Utility Customer Service Policies
October 14
Updated: Pa. PUC Sets OSBA Complaint Regarding Constellation-
The Pennsylvania PUC this morning granted a request from the Office of Small Business Advocate to have its complaint regarding the proposed merger of Constellation Energy and Exelon assigned to the Office of Administrative Law Judge for hearing
Pennsylvania PUC to Reconsider Exemption from Licensing for Gas Marketing Consultants,
Non-
The Pennsylvania PUC this morning voted to open a rulemaking
to examine the regulations regarding natural gas supplier (NGS) licensing requirements,
and specifically whether to continue current exemptions from the licensing requirements
Pa. PUC to Release Intermediate OCMO Recommendations for Interaction of New Default
Service Plans, Retail Market Investigation
The Pennsylvania PUC will issue for comment
intermediate recommendations from the PUC's Office of Competitive Markets Oversight
(OCMO) that are intended to serve as guidance to the electric distribution companies
(EDCs) in developing the format and structure of their upcoming default service plans
Connecticut Light & Power Sees Increase in Migration Growth during September
Connecticut
Light & Power has posted migration statistics for the month of September 2011
AEP Ohio Files Tariff to Maintain Some POLR Charges, Make Charges Nonbypassable
Columbus
Southern Power and Ohio Power are seeking to continue the collection of POLR charges
-
License Briefs
• PUCT Dismisses Without Prejudice NA Power, LLC REP Application
• PUCT Dismisses Without Prejudice Texas Solaro Energy REP Application
• Dynamic Energy Seeks Ohio Broker License
• Energy Professionals, LLC Seeks Ohio Gas Broker License
N.Y. Approves National Fuel Gas Distribution ESCO Storage Level Changes Without Modification
The New York PSC will allow tariff revisions from National Fuel Gas Distribution
regarding ESCO storage inventory balance requirements to go into effect without modification
Court Upholds FERC Market-
FERC's Order 697, which authorizes
wholesale sellers to apply for market-
Briefly
• Green Mountain Energy Launches Mobile Website
• Smart Papers Holdings Sells Ohio Generation
• From the Archives: New Jersey Electric, Gas Migration Data for August
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