FR 2025-01504

In this Federal Register notice, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) outlines DTE Electric Company's request for a partial waiver from responding to the 2024 FERC Form 580 Interrogatory on Fuel and Energy Purchase Practices. The document provides a framework for how individuals and organizations can participate in the regulatory process, either by supporting, intervening, or protesting the waiver request.

General Summary

The notice announces that DTE Electric Company has submitted a request for a partial waiver regarding a specific regulatory form that pertains to fuel and energy purchase practices. This form is generally used by FERC to gather information about how electricity providers are procuring fuel and energy, which can influence regulatory decisions. The document explains how interested parties can become involved by filing comments, interventions, or protests related to this waiver request. The deadline for submissions is January 22, 2025, and FERC encourages electronic filings to streamline the process.

Significant Issues and Concerns

One significant issue is the lack of detail regarding the reasons behind DTE Electric Company's request for a partial waiver. The absence of this information may lead to uncertainty about the motivations and potential implications of the waiver. Stakeholders may find it challenging to assess the request's impact without understanding the company's rationale.

Additionally, while the document outlines the procedures for filing interventions or protests, it does not clarify the consequences of missing this deadline. Understanding the implications of failing to meet such procedural timelines is crucial for those who wish to participate effectively in regulatory processes.

Moreover, the notice disperses contact information and procedural guidance throughout, rather than consolidating it in one location. This could make it difficult for interested parties to quickly find the information they need. Furthermore, technical jargon like "motions to intervene" and "docket number" may alienate individuals unfamiliar with regulatory procedures.

Impact on the Public

For the general public, this document represents an opportunity to engage with the regulatory processes that oversee energy procurement practices. Such engagement is critical as these practices can affect energy prices, availability, and overall policy direction, which all influence consumer interests. However, the technical nature of the document could act as a barrier for public participation, especially for those not versed in regulatory language and procedures.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

For stakeholders like environmental groups, industry competitors, or consumer advocacy organizations, the notice invites active participation in shaping the outcome of DTE Electric Company's waiver request. These groups may have specific concerns about how changes in fuel and energy purchase practices could impact environmental standards, market competition, or consumer protection, respectively.

Conversely, for DTE Electric Company, securing a partial waiver might relieve certain reporting burdens, potentially allowing the company to operate with greater flexibility or reduced administrative costs. However, the lack of transparency about the waiver's intentions might draw scrutiny from stakeholders concerned about accountability or compliance.

Overall, while the document serves as a formal announcement of procedural steps in a specific regulatory matter, the issues around clarity and accessibility highlight the need for more transparent communication to facilitate meaningful public engagement.