Retail Suppliers: Settlement Concerning Retail Market Issues at Philadelphia Gas Works "Imminent"

Retail suppliers believe that a settlement concerning several retail market issues at Philadelphia Gas Works is "imminent," according to pre-hearing memos filed by the suppliers.

The proceeding, an outgrowth from a Philadelphia Gas Works rate case, was originally designed to review suppliers' proposals to have PGW exit the merchant function, to relieve PGW of certain borrowing needs associated with its procurement of default supply.

Since that time, a collaborative has discussed alternative default service mechanisms, and other retail market enhancements.

Recent activity has focused on utility consolidated billing and EDI improvements, as well as purchase of receivables and customer education efforts regarding choice.

Hess Corporation and Direct Energy Services, LLC, "believe a settlement of this proceeding is imminent," the suppliers said in an April 12 prehearing memo asking for continuance of an April 16 prehearing conference.

"Hess and Direct believe a settlement is likely in this case and that a few more days of drafting settlement term language and discussion among the parties will result in a settlement in principle being reached."

Likewise, Interstate Gas Supply, Inc. and Dominion Retail, Inc. said in a separate prehearing memo that they, "are confident that a full settlement in this matter is achievable."