Overview
Title
PJM Interconnection, L.L.C.; Potomac Electric Power Company; Notice of Institution of Section 206 Proceeding and Refund Effective Date
Agencies
ELI5 AI
The people in charge of watching over electricity companies are checking if one company is being fair with how it plans to charge for things losing value over time. They want others to say what they think about this, so they need to tell the people in charge by email or mail, but not being able to visit in person might be tricky for some.
Summary AI
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) is conducting an investigation to determine if Potomac Electric Power Company's proposed depreciation rates are unfair or illegal. This was initiated on December 30, 2020, under Docket No. EL21-28-000, and the refund effective date will be the day this notice is published in the Federal Register. Interested parties must file for intervention with FERC within 21 days of the order's issuance, and submissions are encouraged to be electronic due to COVID-19 related restrictions. For assistance, FERC can be contacted online or via phone.
Keywords AI
Sources
AnalysisAI
The document from the Federal Register discusses an investigation initiated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) concerning the Potomac Electric Power Company's proposed depreciation rates. This investigation is being conducted to determine whether these rates are unjust, unreasonable, discriminatory, or otherwise illegal in accordance with Section 206 of the Federal Power Act. The investigation was officially launched on December 30, 2020, under Docket No. EL21-28-000. The effective date for potential refunds connected to the investigation is the date this notice appears in the Federal Register.
General Summary
The primary focus of the notice is to inform stakeholders about the initiation of a formal investigation by FERC into the depreciation rates proposed by Potomac Electric Power Company. It outlines procedural steps for interested parties who wish to participate or express their opinions. Significantly, it encourages the use of electronic filing for comments and interventions, given COVID-19 restrictions that have led to the temporary closure of the Commission's Public Reference Room.
Significant Issues or Concerns
A notable issue in the document is the lack of specific details regarding which aspects of the proposed depreciation rates are being questioned. This omission may leave stakeholders without full clarity on the investigation's focus or potential ramifications. Furthermore, while the document states the procedure for intervention, it does not address what might happen if stakeholders fail to act within the 21-day window—this may leave some participants unclear about the importance of timely intervention.
Another concern is the limited accessibility options provided for the public. With the emphasis on electronic submissions due to COVID-19 and the closure of the Public Reference Room, there is a risk that individuals without internet access could be excluded. The document does provide a phone and email contact for assistance, but lacks information on additional accommodations, such as help for non-English speakers.
Impact on the Public
The investigation could lead to either a confirmation of proposed rates or potential adjustments that alter electric pricing structures, directly impacting consumers' cost of power. For the general public, this means there could be changes in electricity bills contingent upon the investigation's findings. Moreover, FERC's encouragement of electronic communication reflects a broader trend in administrations adapting to ongoing pandemic restrictions, emphasizing the importance of digital literacy.
Impact on Specific Stakeholders
For specific stakeholders such as energy companies and consumer advocacy groups, this investigation provides a platform to express concerns or support for the proposed rates. Energy companies might be concerned about potential financial implications if rates are adjusted, while consumer advocates might see this as an opportunity to argue for fairer pricing.
Notably, the document stresses the option for electronic submission of comments and protests, likely favoring those equipped with reliable internet access and familiarity with digital communication platforms. While this modern approach aids in efficient processing, it inadvertently disadvantages those without such resources or skills.
In summary, while the document provides a structured approach for handling the investigation, there are concerns about transparency, accessibility, and clarity. The impact of this notice could be significant for individual consumers and energy-sector stakeholders alike, highlighting the need for clear communication and inclusivity in regulatory matters.
Issues
• The document does not specify the specific depreciation rates that are considered unjust or unreasonable, which could make it difficult for stakeholders to fully understand the reasons for the investigation.
• The notice requires any interested person desiring to be heard to file a notice of intervention or motion to intervene within 21 days, but it does not provide details on the consequences of failing to do so, which might be unclear for less informed stakeholders.
• The document refers to the suspension of access to the Commission's Public Reference Room due to COVID-19, but does not offer alternatives for those who may not have internet access, which might limit public participation.
• There is a reference to contacting FERC through email or phone for assistance, but no clear instructions are provided for individuals who may require additional accommodations, such as languages other than English.
• The document encourages electronic filings and provides detailed instructions for both electronic and paper submissions, but does not address any potential cybersecurity concerns that might arise from using electronic filing systems.