Pa. PUC Votes to Issue Proposed Rules on Supplier Marketing

The Pennsylvania PUC voted yesterday to issue a proposed rulemaking on marketing and sales practices for electric generation suppliers (EGSs) and natural gas suppliers (NGSs).

The PUC did not release the proposed rulemaking order yesterday (Docket L-2010-2208332). However, the proposed rulemaking is essentially based on the interim marketing standards adopted in November (see 11/8 for discussion), though it is unclear if the formally proposed rules are identical in every respect. Contrary to other published reports, the PUC rules are not "final," and the proposed rulemaking order will be distinct from the order dated November 5, 2010 on the interim standards that some parties are linking to.

The PUC said that the proposed rules cover a wide range of topics and recommends best practices for direct (door-to-door) marketing, telemarketing and sales. The proposed guidelines would apply to both EGSs and NGSs and to any entity conducting marketing and sales activities on their behalf.

Vice Chairman Tyrone Christy issued a statement reiterating his opposition to door-to-door marketing.