Briefly

PUCT Adopts Rule Clarifying ERCOT Oversight

The PUCT adopted, with several modifications, a final rule codifying and clarifying its authority over ERCOT (38338, see 2/7). The rules provide that the Commission may adopt, modify, or reject the ERCOT budget. Additionally, ERCOT is prohibited from incurring expenses or capital outlays in any year that exceed the amounts approved by the Commission, except in the case of an emergency that impairs its ability to conduct its functions. Among the changes adopted at the open meeting is permitting the Commission to remove unaffiliated directors on the ERCOT Board at will, to ensure such directors are responsive to the Commission.

UI Reports Last Resort Service Supplier

United Illuminating reported that Hess Corporation won 100% of its last resort service supply for the quarter beginning April 1, 2011.

Powelson Named Pa. PUC Chairman

Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Corbett appointed Commissioner Robert Powelson as chairman of Pennsylvania PUC. Current Chairman James Cawley, whose term runs through 2015, is expected to remain with the Commission.

Compete Releases Paper on Innovation in Electric Markets

The Compete Coalition yesterday issued a white paper authored by KEMA exploring the link between competitive electricity markets and innovation in electric products and offerings.