Overview
Title
Supplemental Notice That Initial Market-Based Rate Filing Includes Request for Blanket Section 204 Authorization; PGR Lessee P, LLC
Agencies
ELI5 AI
PGR Lessee P, LLC asked for special permission to set prices and borrow money easily, and people can let the Energy Department know if they think that's a good idea. Because of COVID-19, instead of visiting, they just need to write or go online to say what they think.
Summary AI
PGR Lessee P, LLC has applied for market-based rate authority, including a request for blanket authorization for future issuance of securities and assumption of liability under specific federal regulations. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) is open to protests or interventions, which must be submitted by February 1, 2021, either electronically through their website or via mail. Due to COVID-19, FERC's Public Reference Room is closed, but documents are accessible online.
Keywords AI
Sources
AnalysisAI
Summary and Overview
The document in question is a formal notice from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) concerning PGR Lessee P, LLC's application. This application seeks market-based rate authority, alongside a blanket authorization for future issuance of securities and assumptions of liability under federal regulations. Such notices are standard for regulatory proceedings where companies demonstrate how they will comply with federal energy regulations while maintaining competitive practices.
The notice serves as an invitation for interested parties to either support or challenge the application by filing interventions or protests by February 1, 2021. Due to the pandemic, FERC has adapted to a more digital approach, encouraging electronic submissions but still allowing for mail submissions for those unable to file online.
Significant Issues
Lack of Clarity and Transparency:
One of the primary issues with the document is the absence of detailed information regarding the potential impacts of granting the requested blanket authorization. The document does not explain the specifics of what "future issuances of securities and assumptions of liability" would involve, which leaves readers without a clear understanding of the potential consequences—good or bad—of such authorizations.
Complexity of Filing Process:
The document describes a filing process using technical legal language, referring to specific FERC rules and procedures. This can be daunting for individuals unfamiliar with FERC's processes. The mention of "eRegistration" and the need for creating an account before filing electronically can seem convoluted and may deter public participation.
Impact of COVID-19 Restrictions:
Finally, the document briefly notes changes due to COVID-19, such as the closure of FERC's Public Reference Room, and provides alternative instructions for those opting to hand deliver their documents. These modifications are mentioned but not emphasized, which could lead to confusion among interested parties about procedural adjustments during the pandemic.
Broad Public Impact
For the general public, particularly those interested in or affected by energy rates and policies, this document represents a regulatory step that could influence energy pricing structures in the future. The outcome of these proceedings might affect how energy companies operate, potentially impacting local economies and consumer energy costs.
However, a lack of transparency could lead to public mistrust or misunderstanding about how such authorizations would affect them directly. If the public perceives that crucial details are not disclosed fully, it could foster skepticism about FERC's approval processes and the measures' necessity or fairness.
Impact on Specific Stakeholders
For stakeholders such as consumers, energy suppliers, and legal professionals, the implications of this notice are multifaceted. Consumers may be concerned about future energy rates and reliability. Energy suppliers may view this as an opportunity to expand their financial operations and increase market competitiveness. Legal professionals and industry experts may be required to interpret and navigate the complex regulatory language on behalf of their clients or organizations, which could mean additional workload and administrative efforts.
In summary, while this document aims to facilitate regulatory compliance and market operations in the energy sector, its opacity and complexity underscore the need for clearer communication to ensure broad understanding and fair access for all interested parties.
Issues
• The document mentions a request for blanket authorization under 18 CFR part 34, but it does not provide specific details on the implications or potential impacts of granting such authorization.
• The language regarding the filing process for interventions and protests may be unclear to individuals unfamiliar with FERC processes, particularly the multiple steps for electronic submissions and eRegistration account creation.
• There is no detailed information on what specific 'future issuances of securities and assumptions of liability' entail, which could be seen as lacking transparency.
• The document only briefly mentions an alternate mailing address due to COVID-19 without clear instructions on the procedural changes this might entail.
• The notice assumes knowledge of FERC rules (Rules 211 and 214), which could be challenging for non-professionals to comprehend.
• The instructions for accessing documents via the eLibrary link may be difficult for those unfamiliar with the FERC website or the concept of a docket number.