Maryland's reliability standards become law
ANNAPOLIS, Md. - The governor of the US state of Maryland, Martin O'Malley and Maryland lawmakers have formally announced legislation to put utility reliability standards into the law.
The measure will require the Maryland Public Service Commission to adopt enhanced reliability standards by July 2012. The bill also will allow the PSC to fine utilities for poor performance. Fines would be directed back to affected ratepayers.
Pepco, a utility that serves customers in Washington, and Prince George's and Montgomery counties, has been widely criticized for long delays restoring power to thousands of customers.
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Alberta Introduces New Electricity Rules
EDMONTON - The Alberta government is overhauling its electricity regulations, a move aimed at reducing spikes in electricity prices for consumers and businesses. The new rules, set to be introduced this spring, are intended to stabilize the default electricity rate paid by many Albertans.
Background on the Rate of Last Resort
Albertans currently have the option to sign up for competitive contracts with electricity providers. These contracts can sometimes offer lower rates than the default electricity rate, officially known as the Regulated Rate Option (RRO). However, these competitive rates can fluctuate significantly. Currently, those unable to secure these…
