Ohio to Initiate Smaller Working Groups on Short-Term Retail Market Workplan

The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio will initiate several smaller working groups to address aspects of the short-term retail electric market workplan to be developed by Staff.

PUCO previously directed development of the short term market development work plan to address market changes that can be implemented immediately.

Staff announced the formation of the working groups during a workshop yesterday. Staff's role in the working groups will be as a facilitator.

Staff said that the intent of the working groups is for stakeholders to bring in subject experts on various issues, and to work-out the mechanics of various proposals and address any barriers to various proposals appropriate for the interim workplan.

Focus areas for the working groups were not yet assigned.

During the workshop yesterday, the Retail Energy Supply Association identified four areas of market improvement appropriate for the short-term workplan:

1. Allowing customer enrollment without a utility account number/alternative verification methods

2. Implementing switch-at-connect and seamless move functionality.

3. Allowing greater consolidated utility bill access for retail suppliers (CRES messages on bills, etc.)

4. Implementing non-recourse POR