Conn. DPUC Clarifies Order on Supplier/Aggregator Relationship

In a notice (10-06-24) issued yesterday, the Connecticut DPUC clarified one of the ordering paragraphs in its March order regarding the relationship between electric suppliers and aggregators.

Originally, the DPUC ordered that, by April 18, 2011, each supplier and aggregator shall file either (1) an affidavit attesting that the supplier or aggregator does not currently have an agency relationship with an aggregator or supplier that would be inconsistent with the Department's rulings; or (2) a listing of all aggregators or suppliers with whom such supplier or aggregator currently has an agency relationship or arrangement, and a description of such relationship (e.g., sales, marketing, customer service).

In its notice, the DPUC clarified that it is, "only interested in exclusive, contractual relationships between Suppliers and Aggregators. This order is not meant to include payments made to Aggregators that have gathered customers for Suppliers that are offering competitive pricing."

In the same notice, which formalized a recent working group meeting, the DPUC also said that, regarding mid-cycle price changes and enrollments, "[t]he consensus from the group was that the current practices are appropriate." The DPUC also said that greater consumer education on the timing of enrollments is needed. The DPUC was not explicit that it is abandoning its earlier stated goal of implementing mid-cycle supplier enrollments by the end of June.

The DPUC also said that it will continue to work with electric distribution companies and suppliers regarding changes to the billing format to make it more consumer friendly, within the EDC's current financial and software capabilities.

The next supplier working group meeting will be held on April 27, 2011 to discuss:
- Enrollment (the 5-day Rule) - as it relates to the March decision (timing/paperwork)
- Cancellation Fees - Written Consent, etc
- Direct Billing, as it relates to the March decision
- Bill Format & Design