Legislación
US (United States) Code. Title 16. Chapter 46: Public utility regulatory policies
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16 USC CHAPTER 46 - PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES 01/06/03
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TITLE 16 - CONSERVATION
CHAPTER 46 - PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES
.
-HEAD-
CHAPTER 46 - PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES
-MISC1-
Sec.
2601. Findings.
2602. Definitions.
2603. Relationship to antitrust laws.
SUBCHAPTER I - RETAIL REGULATORY POLICIES FOR ELECTRIC UTILITIES
2611. Purposes.
2612. Coverage.
(a) Volume of total retail sales.
(b) Exclusion of wholesale sales.
(c) List of covered utilities.
2613. Federal contracts.
SUBCHAPTER II - STANDARDS FOR ELECTRIC UTILITIES
2621. Consideration and determination respecting certain ratemaking
standards.
(a) Consideration and determination.
(b) Procedural requirements for consideration and
determination.
(c) Implementation.
(d) Establishment.
2622. Obligations to consider and determine.
(a) Request for consideration and determination.
(b) Time limitations.
(c) Failure to comply.
2623. Adoption of certain standards.
(a) Adoption of standards.
(b) Establishment.
(c) Procedural requirements.
2624. Lifeline rates.
(a) Lower rates.
(b) Determination.
(c) Prior proceedings.
2625. Special rules for standards.
(a) Cost of service.
(b) Time-of-day rates.
(c) Load management techniques.
(d) Master metering.
(e) Automatic adjustment clauses.
(f) Information to consumers.
(g) Procedures for termination of electric service.
(h) Advertising.
2626. Reports respecting standards.
(a) State authorities and nonregulated utilities.
(b) Secretary.
2627. Relationship to State law.
(a) Revenue and rate of return.
(b) State authority.
(c) Federal agencies.
SUBCHAPTER III - INTERVENTION AND JUDICIAL REVIEW
2631. Intervention in proceedings.
(a) Authority to intervene and participate.
(b) Access to information.
(c) Effective date; procedures.
2632. Consumer representation.
(a) Compensation for costs of participation or
intervention.
(b) Alternative means.
(c) Transcripts.
(d) Federal agencies.
(e) Rights under other authority.
2633. Judicial review and enforcement.
(a) Limitation of Federal jurisdiction.
(b) Enforcement of intervention right.
(c) Review and enforcement.
(d) Other authority of Secretary.
2634. Prior and pending proceedings.
SUBCHAPTER IV - ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS
2641. Voluntary guidelines.
2642. Responsibilities of Secretary.
(a) Authority.
(b) Technical assistance.
(c) Appropriations.
2643. Gathering information on costs of service.
(a) Information required to be gathered.
(b) Commission rules.
(c) Filing and publication.
(d) Enforcement.
2644. Relationship to other authority.
2645. Utility regulatory institute.
(a) Matching grants.
(b) Federal share.
(c) Restrictions.
(d) Authorization of appropriations.
-SECREF-
CHAPTER REFERRED TO IN OTHER SECTIONS
This chapter is referred to in title 10 section 2867; title 42
sections 6807, 7375.
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16 USC Sec. 2601 01/06/03
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TITLE 16 - CONSERVATION
CHAPTER 46 - PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES
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Sec. 2601. Findings
-STATUTE-
The Congress finds that the protection of the public health,
safety, and welfare, the preservation of national security, and the
proper exercise of congressional authority under the Constitution
to regulate interstate commerce require -
(1) a program providing for increased conservation of electric
energy, increased efficiency in the use of facilities and
resources by electric utilities, and equitable retail rates for
electric consumers,
(2) a program to improve the wholesale distribution of electric
energy, the reliability of electric service, the procedures
concerning consideration of wholesale rate applications before
the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the participation of
the public in matters before the Commission, and to provide other
measures with respect to the regulation of the wholesale sale of
electric energy,
(3) a program to provide for the expeditious development of
hydroelectric potential at existing small dams to provide needed
hydroelectric power,
(4) a program for the conservation of natural gas while
insuring that rates to natural gas consumers are equitable,
(5) a program to encourage the development of crude oil
transportation systems, and
(6) the establishment of certain other authorities as provided
in title VI of this Act.
-SOURCE-
(Pub. L. 95-617, Sec. 2, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3119.)
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REFERENCES IN TEXT
This Act, referred to in par. (6), is Pub. L. 95-617, Nov. 9,
1978, 92 Stat. 3117, as amended, known as the Public Utility
Regulatory Policies Act of 1978. Title VI of this Act enacted
sections 824a-4 and 2645 of this title and sections 717x to 717z of
Title 15, Commerce and Trade, amended section 717f of Title 15 and
sections 1311, 1312, and 1314 to 1316 of Title 30, Mineral Lands
and Mining, and enacted provisions set out as a note under section
2621 of this title. For complete classification of this Act to the
Code, see Short Title note below and Tables.
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CODIFICATION
This section was not enacted as part of title I of Pub. L. 95-617
which comprises this chapter.
-MISC3-
SHORT TITLE
Section 1 of Pub. L. 95-617 provided that: ''This Act (enacting
this chapter, and sections 823a, 824a-1 to 824a-4, 824i to 824k,
825q-1, and 2701 to 2708 of this title, sections 717x to 717z and
3201 to 3211 of Title 15, Commerce and Trade, section 6808 of Title
42, The Public Health and Welfare, and sections 2001 to 2012 of
Title 43, Public Lands, amending sections 796, 824, 824a, 824d, and
825d of this title, section 717f of Title 15, sections 1311, 1312,
and 1314 to 1316 of Title 30, Mineral Lands and Mining, and
sections 6801 to 6807 of Title 42, and enacting provisions set out
as notes under sections 824, 824a, 824d, 825d, and 2621 of this
title) may be cited as the 'Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act
of 1978'.''
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16 USC Sec. 2602 01/06/03
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TITLE 16 - CONSERVATION
CHAPTER 46 - PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES
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Sec. 2602. Definitions
-STATUTE-
As used in this Act, except as otherwise specifically provided -
(1) The term ''antitrust laws'' includes the Sherman Antitrust
Act (15 U.S.C. 1 and following), the Clayton Act (15 U.S.C. 12
and following), the Federal Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C.
14(41) and following), the Wilson Tariff Act (15 U.S.C. 8 and 9),
and the Act of June 19, 1936, chapter 592 (15 U.S.C. 13, 13a,
13b, and 21A).
(2) The term ''class'' means, with respect to electric
consumers, any group of such consumers who have similar
characteristics of electric energy use.
(3) The term ''Commission'' means the Federal Energy Regulatory
Commission.
(4) The term ''electric utility'' means any person, State
agency, or Federal agency, which sells electric energy.
(5) The term ''electric consumer'' means any person, State
agency, or Federal agency, to which electric energy is sold other
than for purposes of resale.
(6) The term ''evidentiary hearing'' means -
(A) in the case of a State agency, a proceeding which (i) is
open to the public, (ii) includes notice to participants and an
opportunity for such participants to present direct and
rebuttal evidence and to cross-examine witnesses, (iii)
includes a written decision, based upon evidence appearing in a
written record of the proceeding, and (iv) is subject to
judicial review;
(B) in the case of a Federal agency, a proceeding conducted
as provided in sections 554, 556, and 557 of title 5; and
(C) in the case of a proceeding conducted by any entity other
than a State or Federal agency, a proceeding which conforms, to
the extent appropriate, with the requirements of subparagraph
(A).
(7) The term ''Federal agency'' means an executive agency (as
defined in section 105 of title 5).
(8) The term ''load management technique'' means any technique
(other than a time-of-day or seasonal rate) to reduce the maximum
kilowatt demand on the electric utility, including ripple or
radio control mechanisms, and other types of interruptible
electric service, energy storage devices, and load-limiting
devices.
(9) The term ''nonregulated electric utility'' means any
electric utility other than a State regulated electric utility.
(10) The term ''rate'' means (A) any price, rate, charge, or
classification made, demanded, observed, or received with respect
to sale of electric energy by an electric utility to an electric
consumer, (B) any rule, regulation, or practice respecting any
such rate, charge, or classification, and (C) any contract
pertaining to the sale of electric energy to an electric
consumer.
(11) The term ''ratemaking authority'' means authority to fix,
modify, approve, or disapprove rates.
(12) The term ''rate schedule'' means the designation of the
rates which an electric utility charges for electric energy.
(13) The term ''sale'' when used with respect to electric
energy includes any exchange of electric energy.
(14) The term ''Secretary'' means the Secretary of Energy.
(15) The term ''State'' means a State, the District of
Columbia, and Puerto Rico.
(16) The term ''State agency'' means a State, political
subdivision thereof, and any agency or instrumentality of either.
(17) The term ''State regulatory authority'' means any State
agency which has ratemaking authority with respect to the sale of
electric energy by any electric utility (other than such State
agency), and in the case of an electric utility with respect to
which the Tennessee Valley Authority has ratemaking authority,
such term means the Tennessee Valley Authority.
(18) The term ''State regulated electric utility'' means any
electric utility with respect to which a State regulatory
authority has ratemaking authority.
(19) The term ''integrated resource planning'' means, in the
case of an electric utility, a planning and selection process for
new energy resources that evaluates the full range of
alternatives, including new generating capacity, power purchases,
energy conservation and efficiency, cogeneration and district
heating and cooling applications, and renewable energy resources,
in order to provide adequate and reliable service to its electric
customers at the lowest system cost. The process shall take into
account necessary features for system operation, such as
diversity, reliability, dispatchability, and other factors of
risk; shall take into account the ability to verify energy
savings achieved through energy conservation and efficiency and
the projected durability of such savings measured over time; and
shall treat demand and supply resources on a consistent and
integrated basis.
(20) The term ''system cost'' means all direct and quantifiable
net costs for an energy resource over its available life,
including the cost of production, distribution, transportation,
utilization, waste management, and environmental compliance.
(21) The term ''demand side management'' includes load
management techniques.
-SOURCE-
(Pub. L. 95-617, Sec. 3, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3119; Pub. L.
102-486, title I, Sec. 111(d), Oct. 24, 1992, 106 Stat. 2796.)
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REFERENCES IN TEXT
This Act, referred to in text, is Pub. L. 95-617, Nov. 9, 1978,
92 Stat. 3117, as amended, known as the Public Utility Regulatory
Policies Act of 1978. For complete classification of this Act to
the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 2601 of this
title and Tables.
The Sherman Antitrust Act (15 U.S.C. 1 and following), referred
to in par. (1), is act July 2, 1890, ch. 647, 26 Stat. 209, as
amended, which enacted sections 1 to 7 of Title 15, Commerce and
Trade. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see
Short Title note set out under section 1 of Title 15 and Tables.
The Clayton Act (15 U.S.C. 12 and following), referred to in par.
(1), is act Oct. 15, 1914, ch. 323, 38 Stat. 730, as amended, which
is classified generally to sections 12, 13, 14 to 19, 20, 21, and
22 to 27 of Title 15, Commerce and Trade, and sections 52 and 53 of
Title 29, Labor. For further details and complete classification of
this Act to the Code, see References in Text note set out under
section 12 of Title 15 and Tables.
The Federal Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 14 and following),
referred to in par. (1), is act Sept. 26, 1914, ch. 311, 38 Stat.
717, as amended, which is classified generally to subchapter I
(Sec. 41 et seq.) of chapter 2 of Title 15, Commerce and Trade. For
complete classification of this Act to the Code, see section 58 of
Title 15 and Tables.
The Wilson Tariff Act (15 U.S.C. 8 and 9), referred to in par.
(1), is sections 73 to 77 of act Aug. 27, 1894, ch. 349, 28 Stat.
570. Sections 73 to 76 enacted sections 8 to 11 of Title 15,
Commerce and Trade. Section 77 of said Act was not classified to
the Code. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see
Short Title note under section 8 of Title 15 and Tables.
Act of June 19, 1936, chapter 592 (15 U.S.C. 13, 13a, 13b, and
21A), referred to in par. (1), is act June 19, 1936, ch. 592, 49
Stat. 1526, popularly known as the Robinson-Patman
Antidiscrimination Act and also as the Robinson-Patman Price
Discrimination Act, which enacted sections 13a, 13b, and 21a of
Title 15, Commerce and Trade, and amended section 13 of Title 15.
For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short
Title note set out under section 13 of Title 15 and Tables.
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CODIFICATION
This section was not enacted as part of title I of Pub. L. 95-617
which comprises this chapter.
-MISC3-
AMENDMENTS
1992 - Pars. (19) to (21). Pub. L. 102-486 added pars. (19) to
(21).
-SECREF-
SECTION REFERRED TO IN OTHER SECTIONS
This section is referred to in sections 796, 2627 of this title;
title 42 sections 2296b-7, 6807, 6807a, 7276c.
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16 USC Sec. 2603 01/06/03
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TITLE 16 - CONSERVATION
CHAPTER 46 - PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES
-HEAD-
Sec. 2603. Relationship to antitrust laws
-STATUTE-
Nothing in this Act or in any amendment made by this Act affects
-
(1) the applicability of the antitrust laws to any electric
utility or gas utility (as defined in section 3202 of title 15),
or
(2) any authority of the Secretary or of the Commission under
any other provision of law (including the Federal Power Act (16
U.S.C. 791a et seq.) and the Natural Gas Act (15 U.S.C. 717 et
seq.)) respecting unfair methods of competition or
anticompetitive acts or practices.
-SOURCE-
(Pub. L. 95-617, Sec. 4, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3120.)
-REFTEXT-
REFERENCES IN TEXT
This Act, referred to in text, is act Pub. L. 95-617, Nov. 9,
1978, 92 Stat. 3117, as amended, known as the Public Utility
Regulatory Policies Act of 1978. For complete classification of
this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section
2601 of this title and Tables.
The Federal Power Act, referred to in par. (2), is act June 10,
1920, ch. 285, 41 Stat. 1063, as amended, which is classified
generally to chapter 12 (Sec. 791a et seq.) of this title. For
complete classification of this Act to the Code, see section 791a
of this title and Tables.
The Natural Gas Act, referred to in par. (2), is act June 21,
1938, ch. 556, 52 Stat. 821, as amended, which is classified
generally to chapter 15B (Sec. 717 et seq.) of Title 15, Commerce
and Trade. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see
section 717w of Title 15 and Tables.
-COD-
CODIFICATION
This section was not enacted as part of title I of Pub. L. 95-617
which comprises this chapter.
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16 USC SUBCHAPTER I - RETAIL REGULATORY POLICIES FOR
ELECTRIC UTILITIES 01/06/03
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TITLE 16 - CONSERVATION
CHAPTER 46 - PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES
SUBCHAPTER I - RETAIL REGULATORY POLICIES FOR ELECTRIC UTILITIES
.
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SUBCHAPTER I - RETAIL REGULATORY POLICIES FOR ELECTRIC UTILITIES
-SECREF-
SUBCHAPTER REFERRED TO IN OTHER SECTIONS
This subchapter is referred to in sections 2633, 2634 of this
title.
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16 USC Sec. 2611 01/06/03
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TITLE 16 - CONSERVATION
CHAPTER 46 - PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES
SUBCHAPTER I - RETAIL REGULATORY POLICIES FOR ELECTRIC UTILITIES
-HEAD-
Sec. 2611. Purposes
-STATUTE-
The purposes of this chapter are to encourage -
(1) conservation of energy supplied by electric utilities;
(2) the optimization of the efficiency of use of facilities and
resources by electric utilities; and
(3) equitable rates to electric consumers.
-SOURCE-
(Pub. L. 95-617, title I, Sec. 101, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3120.)
-REFTEXT-
REFERENCES IN TEXT
This chapter, referred to in text, was in the original ''this
title'', meaning title I (Sec. 101 et seq.) of Pub. L. 95-617, Nov.
9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3120, which enacted this chapter and amended
sections 6801 to 6808 of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare.
For complete classification of Title I to the Code, see Tables.
-SECREF-
SECTION REFERRED TO IN OTHER SECTIONS
This section is referred to in section 824a-4 of this title.
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16 USC Sec. 2612 01/06/03
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TITLE 16 - CONSERVATION
CHAPTER 46 - PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES
SUBCHAPTER I - RETAIL REGULATORY POLICIES FOR ELECTRIC UTILITIES
-HEAD-
Sec. 2612. Coverage
-STATUTE-
(a) Volume of total retail sales
This chapter applies to each electric utility in any calendar
year, and to each proceeding relating to each electric utility in
such year, if the total sales of electric energy by such utility
for purposes other than resale exceeded 500 million kilowatt-hours
during any calendar year beginning after December 31, 1975, and
before the immediately preceding calendar year.
(b) Exclusion of wholesale sales
The requirements of this chapter do not apply to the operations
of an electric utility, or to proceedings respecting such
operations, to the extent that such operations or proceedings
relate to sales of electric energy for purposes of resale.
(c) List of covered utilities
Before the beginning of each calendar year, the Secretary shall
publish a list identifying each electric utility to which this
chapter applies during such calendar year. Promptly after
publication of such list each State regulatory authority shall
notify the Secretary of each electric utility on the list for which
such State regulatory authority has ratemaking authority.
-SOURCE-
(Pub. L. 95-617, title I, Sec. 102, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3121.)
-SECREF-
SECTION REFERRED TO IN OTHER SECTIONS
This section is referred to in sections 2613, 2642 of this title.
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16 USC Sec. 2613 01/06/03
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TITLE 16 - CONSERVATION
CHAPTER 46 - PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES
SUBCHAPTER I - RETAIL REGULATORY POLICIES FOR ELECTRIC UTILITIES
-HEAD-
Sec. 2613. Federal contracts
-STATUTE-
Notwithstanding the limitation contained in section 2612(b) of
this title, no contract between a Federal agency and any electric
utility for the sale of electric energy by such Federal agency for
resale which is entered into or renewed after November 9, 1978, may
contain any provision which will have the effect of preventing the
implementation of any requirement of subchapter II or III of this
chapter. Any provision in any such contract which has such effect
shall be null and void.
-SOURCE-
(Pub. L. 95-617, title I, Sec. 103, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3121.)
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16 USC SUBCHAPTER II - STANDARDS FOR ELECTRIC UTILITIES 01/06/03
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TITLE 16 - CONSERVATION
CHAPTER 46 - PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES
SUBCHAPTER II - STANDARDS FOR ELECTRIC UTILITIES
.
-HEAD-
SUBCHAPTER II - STANDARDS FOR ELECTRIC UTILITIES
-SECREF-
SUBCHAPTER REFERRED TO IN OTHER SECTIONS
This subchapter is referred to in sections 2613, 2631, 2632,
2633, 2634, 2642 of this title.
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16 USC Sec. 2621 01/06/03
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TITLE 16 - CONSERVATION
CHAPTER 46 - PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES
SUBCHAPTER II - STANDARDS FOR ELECTRIC UTILITIES
-HEAD-
Sec. 2621. Consideration and determination respecting certain
ratemaking standards
-STATUTE-
(a) Consideration and determination
Each State regulatory authority (with respect to each electric
utility for which it has ratemaking authority) and each
nonregulated electric utility shall consider each standard
established by subsection (d) of this section and make a
determination concerning whether or not it is appropriate to
implement such standard to carry out the purposes of this chapter.
For purposes of such consideration and determination in accordance
with subsections (b) and (c) of this section, and for purposes of
any review of such consideration and determination in any court in
accordance with section 2633 of this title, the purposes of this
chapter supplement otherwise applicable State law. Nothing in this
subsection prohibits any State regulatory authority or nonregulated
electric utility from making any determination that it is not
appropriate to implement any such standard, pursuant to its
authority under otherwise applicable State law.
(b) Procedural requirements for consideration and determination
(1) The consideration referred to in subsection (a) of this
section shall be made after public notice and hearing. The
determination referred to in subsection (a) of this section shall
be -
(A) in writing,
(B) based upon findings included in such determination and upon
the evidence presented at the hearing, and
(C) available to the public.
(2) Except as otherwise provided in paragraph (1), in the second
sentence of section 2622(a) of this title, and in sections 2631 and
2632 of this title, the procedures for the consideration and
determination referred to in subsection (a) of this section shall
be those established by the State regulatory authority or the
nonregulated electric utility.
(c) Implementation
(1) The State regulatory authority (with respect to each electric
utility for which it has ratemaking authority) or nonregulated
electric utility may, to the extent consistent with otherwise
applicable State law -
(A) implement any such standard determined under subsection (a)
of this section to be appropriate to carry out the purposes of
this chapter, or
(B) decline to implement any such standard.
(2) If a State regulatory authority (with respect to each
electric utility for which it has ratemaking authority) or
nonregulated electric utility declines to implement any standard
established by subsection (d) of this section which is determined
under subsection (a) of this section to be appropriate to carry out
the purposes of this chapter, such authority or nonregulated
electric utility shall state in writing the reasons therefor. Such
statement of reasons shall be available to the public.
(3) If a State regulatory authority implements a standard
established by subsection (d)(7) or (8) of this section, such
authority shall -
(A) consider the impact that implementation of such standard
would have on small businesses engaged in the design, sale,
supply, installation or servicing of energy conservation, energy
efficiency or other demand side management measures, and
(B) implement such standard so as to assure that utility
actions would not provide such utilities with unfair competitive
advantages over such small businesses.
(d) Establishment
The following Federal standards are hereby established:
(1) Cost of service
Rates charged by any electric utility for providing electric
service to each class of electric consumers shall be designed, to
the maximum extent practicable, to reflect the costs of providing
electric service to such class, as determined under section
2625(a) of this title.
(2) Declining block rates
The energy component of a rate, or the amount attributable to
the energy component in a rate, charged by any electric utility
for providing electric service during any period to any class of
electric consumers may not decrease as kilowatt-hour consumption
by such class increases during such period except to the extent
that such utility demonstrates that the costs to such utility of
providing electric service to such class, which costs are
attributable to such energy component, decrease as such
consumption increases during such period.
(3) Time-of-day rates
The rates charged by any electric utility for providing
electric service to each class of electric consumers shall be on
a time-of-day basis which reflects the costs of providing
electric service to such class of electric consumers at different
times of the day unless such rates are not cost-effective with
respect to such class, as determined under section 2625(b) of
this title.
(4) Seasonal rates
The rates charged by an electric utility for providing electric
service to each class of electric consumers shall be on a
seasonal basis which reflects the costs of providing service to
such class of consumers at different seasons of the year to the
extent that such costs vary seasonally for such utility.
(5) Interruptible rates
Each electric utility shall offer each industrial and
commercial electric consumer an interruptible rate which reflects
the cost of providing interruptible service to the class of which
such consumer is a member.
(6) Load management techniques
Each electric utility shall offer to its electric consumers
such load management techniques as the State regulatory authority
(or the nonregulated electric utility) has determined will -
(A) be practicable and cost-effective, as determined under
section 2625(c) of this title,
(B) be reliable, and
(C) provide useful energy or capacity management advantages
to the electric utility.
(7) Integrated resource planning
Each electric utility shall employ integrated resource
planning. All plans or filings before a State regulatory
authority to meet the requirements of this paragraph must be
updated on a regular basis, must provide the opportunity for
public participation and comment, and contain a requirement that
the plan be implemented.
(8) Investments in conservation and demand management
The rates allowed to be charged by a State regulated electric
utility shall be such that the utility's investment in and
expenditures for energy conservation, energy efficiency
resources, and other demand side management measures are at least
as profitable, giving appropriate consideration to income lost
from reduced sales due to investments in and expenditures for
conservation and efficiency, as its investments in and
expenditures for the construction of new generation,
transmission, and distribution equipment. Such energy
conservation, energy efficiency resources and other demand side
management measures shall be appropriately monitored and
evaluated.
(9) Energy efficiency investments in power generation and supply
The rates charged by any electric utility shall be such that
the utility is encouraged to make investments in, and
expenditures for, all cost-effective improvements in the energy
efficiency of power generation, transmission and distribution.
In considering regulatory changes to achieve the objectives of
this paragraph, State regulatory authorities and nonregulated
electric utilities shall consider the disincentives caused by
existing ratemaking policies, and practices, and consider
incentives that would encourage better maintenance, and
investment in more efficient power generation, transmission and
distribution equipment.
(10) Consideration of the effects of wholesale power purchases on
utility cost of capital; effects of leveraged capital
structures on the reliability of wholesale power sellers; and
assurance of adequate fuel supplies
(A) To the extent that a State regulatory authority requires or
allows electric utilities for which it has ratemaking authority
to consider the purchase of long-term wholesale power supplies as
a means of meeting electric demand, such authority shall perform
a general evaluation of:
(i) the potential for increases or decreases in the costs of
capital for such utilities, and any resulting increases or
decreases in the retail rates paid by electric consumers, that
may result from purchases of long-term wholesale power supplies
in lieu of the construction of new generation facilities by
such utilities;
(ii) whether the use by exempt wholesale generators (as
defined in section 79z-5a of title 15) of capital structures
which employ proportionally greater amounts of debt than the
capital structures of such utilities threatens reliability or
provides an unfair advantage for exempt wholesale generators
over such utilities;
(iii) whether to implement procedures for the advance
approval or disapproval of the purchase of a particular
long-term wholesale power supply; and
(iv) whether to require as a condition for the approval of
the purchase of power that there be reasonable assurances of
fuel supply adequacy.
(B) For purposes of implementing the provisions of this
paragraph, any reference contained in this section to November 9,
1978, shall be deemed to be a reference to October 24, 1992.
(C) Notwithstanding any other provision of Federal law, nothing
in this paragraph shall prevent a State regulatory authority from
taking such action, including action with respect to the
allowable capital structure of exempt wholesale generators, as
such State regulatory authority may determine to be in the public
interest as a result of performing evaluations under the
standards of subparagraph (A).
(D) Notwithstanding section 2634 of this title and paragraphs
(1) and (2) of section 2622(a) of this title, each State
regulatory authority shall consider and make a determination
concerning the standards of subparagraph (A) in accordance with
the requirements of subsections (a) and (b) of this section,
without regard to any proceedings commenced prior to October 24,
1992.
(E) Notwithstanding subsections (b) and (c) of section 2622 of
this title, each State regulatory authority shall consider and
make a determination concerning whether it is appropriate to
implement the standards set out in subparagraph (A) not later
than one year after October 24, 1992.
-SOURCE-
(Pub. L. 95-617, title I, Sec. 111, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3121;
Pub. L. 102-486, title I, Sec. 111(a), (b), title VII, Sec. 712,
Oct. 24, 1992, 106 Stat. 2795, 2910.)
-REFTEXT-
REFERENCES IN TEXT
This chapter, referred to in subsecs. (a) and (c), was in the
original ''this title'', meaning title I (Sec. 101 et seq.) of Pub.
L. 95-617, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3120, which enacted this chapter
and amended sections 6801 to 6808 of Title 42, The Public Health
and Welfare. For complete classification of title I to the Code,
see Tables.
-MISC2-
AMENDMENTS
1992 - Subsec. (c)(3). Pub. L. 102-486, Sec. 111(b), added par.
(3).
Subsec. (d)(7) to (9). Pub. L. 102-486, Sec. 111(a), added pars.
(7) to (9).
Subsec. (d)(10). Pub. L. 102-486, Sec. 712, added par. (10).
STATE AUTHORITIES; CONSTRUCTION
Nothing in amendment by section 712 of Pub. L. 102-486 to be
construed as affecting or intending to affect, or in any way to
interfere with, authority of any State or local government relating
to environmental protection or siting of facilities, see section
731 of Pub. L. 102-486, set out as a note under section 79 of Title
15, Commerce and Trade.
REPORT TO PRESIDENT AND CONGRESS ON ENCOURAGEMENT OF INTEGRATED
RESOURCE PLANNING AND INVESTMENTS IN CONSERVATION AND ENERGY
EFFICIENCY BY ELECTRIC UTILITIES
Section 111(e) of Pub. L. 102-486 provided that: ''Not later than
2 years after the date of the enactment of this Act (Oct. 24,
1992), the Secretary shall transmit a report to the President and
to the Congress containing -
''(1) a survey of all State laws, regulations, practices, and
policies under which State regulatory authorities implement the
provisions of paragraphs (7), (8), and (9) of section 111(d) of
the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 (16 U.S.C.
2621(d)(7)-(9));
''(2) an evaluation by the Secretary of whether and to what
extent, integrated resource planning is likely to result in -
''(A) higher or lower electricity costs to an electric
utility's ultimate consumers or to classes or groups of such
consumers;
''(B) enhanced or reduced reliability of electric service;
and
''(C) increased or decreased dependence on particular energy
resources; and
''(3) a survey of practices and policies under which electric
cooperatives prepare integrated resource plans, submit such plans
to the Rural Electrification Administration and the extent to
which such integrated resource planning is reflected in rates
charged to customers.
The report shall include an analysis prepared in conjunction with
the Federal Trade Commission, of the competitive impact of
implementation of energy conservation, energy efficiency, and other
demand side management programs by utilities on small businesses
engaged in the design, sale, supply, installation, or servicing of
similar energy conservation, energy efficiency, or other demand
side management measures and whether any unfair, deceptive, or
predatory acts exist, or are likely to exist, from implementation
of such programs.''
(For provisions relating to further requirements as to subject
matter contained in report under section 111(e) of Pub. L. 102-486,
set out above, see section 115(e) of Pub. L. 102-486, set out as a
note under section 3203 of Title 15, Commerce and Trade.)
STUDY CONCERNING ELECTRIC RATES OF STATE UTILITY AGENCIES
Section 601 of Pub. L. 95-617 directed the Secretary to conduct a
study concerning the effects of provisions of Federal law on rates
established by State utility agencies and to submit a report to
Congress on the results of such study not later than 1 year after
Nov. 9, 1978.
-SECREF-
SECTION REFERRED TO IN OTHER SECTIONS
This section is referred to in sections 831m-1, 2622, 2624, 2625,
2626, 2627, 2641, 2643 of this title; title 42 sections 6349,
6807a, 7276b.
-CITE-
16 USC Sec. 2622 01/06/03
-EXPCITE-
TITLE 16 - CONSERVATION
CHAPTER 46 - PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES
SUBCHAPTER II - STANDARDS FOR ELECTRIC UTILITIES
-HEAD-
Sec. 2622. Obligations to consider and determine
-STATUTE-
(a) Request for consideration and determination
Each State regulatory authority (with respect to each electric
utility for which it has ratemaking authority) and each
nonregulated electric utility may undertake the consideration and
make the determination referred to in section 2621 of this title
with respect to any standard established by section 2621(d) of this
title in any proceeding respecting the rates of the electric
utility. Any participant or intervenor (including an intervenor
referred to in section 2631 of this title) in such a proceeding may
request, and shall obtain, such consideration and determination in
such proceeding. In undertaking such consideration and making such
determination in any such proceeding with respect to the
application to any electric utility of any standard established by
section 2621(d) of this title, a State regulatory authority (with
respect to an electric utility for which it has ratemaking
authority) or nonregulated electric utility may take into account
in such proceeding -
(1) any appropriate prior determination with respect to such
standard -
(A) which is made in a proceeding which takes place after
November 9, 1978, or
(B) which was made before such date (or is made in a
proceeding pending on such date) and complies, as provided in
section 2634 of this title, with the requirements of this
chapter; and
(2) the evidence upon which such prior determination was based
(if such evidence is referenced in such proceeding).
(b) Time limitations
(1) Not later than 2 years after November 9, 1978 (or after
October 24, 1992, in the case of standards under paragraphs (7),
(8), and (9) of section 2621(d) of this title), each State
regulatory authority (with respect to each electric utility for
which it has ratemaking authority) and each nonregulated electric
utility shall commence the consideration referred to in section
2621 of this title, or set a hearing date for such consideration,
with respect to each standard established by section 2621(d) of
this title.
(2) Not later than three years after November 9, 1978 (or after
October 24, 1992, in the case of standards under paragraphs (7),
(8), and (9) of section 2621(d) of this title), each State
regulatory authority (with respect to each electric utility for
which it has ratemaking authority), and each nonregulated electric
utility, shall complete the consideration, and shall make the
determination, referred to in section 2621 of this title with
respect to each standard established by section 2621(d) of this
title.
(c) Failure to comply
Each State regulatory authority (with respect to each electric
utility for which it has ratemaking authority) and each
nonregulated electric utility shall undertake the consideration,
and make the determination, referred to in section 2621 of this
title with respect to each standard established by section 2621(d)
of this title in the first rate proceeding commenced after the date
three years after November 9, 1978, respecting the rates of such
utility if such State regulatory authority or nonregulated electric
utility has not, before such date, complied with subsection (b)(2)
of this section with respect to such standard.
-SOURCE-
(Pub. L. 95-617, title I, Sec. 112, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3122;
Pub. L. 102-486, title I, Sec. 111(c), Oct. 24, 1992, 106 Stat.
2795.)
-COD-
CODIFICATION
''October 24, 1992'', referred to in subsec. (b)(1), (2), was in
the original ''the enactment of the Comprehensive National Energy
Policy Act'', and was translated as meaning the enactment of the
Energy Policy Act of 1992, Pub. L. 102-486, to reflect the probable
intent of Congress. The Comprehensive National Energy Policy Act
was the original short title of H.R. 776, which was enacted into
law on Oct. 24, 1992, as Pub. L. 102-486.
-MISC3-
AMENDMENTS
1992 - Subsec. (b)(1), (2). Pub. L. 102-486 inserted ''(or after
October 24, 1992, in the case of standards under paragraphs (7),
(8), and (9) of section 2621(d) of this title)''.
-SECREF-
SECTION REFERRED TO IN OTHER SECTIONS
This section is referred to in section 2621 of this title.
-CITE-
16 USC Sec. 2623 01/06/03
-EXPCITE-
TITLE 16 - CONSERVATION
CHAPTER 46 - PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES
SUBCHAPTER II - STANDARDS FOR ELECTRIC UTILITIES
-HEAD-
Sec. 2623. Adoption of certain standards
-STATUTE-
(a) Adoption of standards
Not later than two years after November 9, 1978, each State
regulatory authority (with respect to each electric utility for
which it has ratemaking authority), and each nonregulated electric
utility, shall provide public notice and conduct a hearing
respecting the standards established by subsection (b) of this
section and, on the basis of such hearing, shall -
(1) adopt the standards established by subsection (b) of this
section (other than paragraph (4) thereof) if, and to the extent,
such authority or nonregulated electric utility determines that
such adoption is appropriate to carry out the purposes of this
chapter, is otherwise appropriate, and is consistent with
otherwise applicable State law, and
(2) adopt the standard established by subsection (b)(4) of this
section if, and to the extent, such authority or nonregulated
electric utility determines that such adoption is appropriate and
consistent with otherwise applicable State law.
For purposes of any determination under paragraphs (1) or (2) and
any review of such determination in any court in accordance with
section 2633 of this title, the purposes of this chapter supplement
otherwise applicable State law. Nothing in this subsection
prohibits any State regulatory authority or nonregulated electric
utility from making any determination that it is not appropriate to
adopt any such standard, pursuant to its authority under otherwise
applicable State law.
(b) Establishment
The following Federal standards are hereby established:
(1) Master metering
To the extent determined appropriate under section 2625(d) of
this title, master metering of electric service in the case of
new buildings shall be prohibited or restricted to the extent
necessary to carry out the purposes of this chapter.
(2) Automatic adjustment clauses
No electric utility may increase any rate pursuant to an
automatic adjustment clause unless such clause meets the
requirements of section 2625(e) of this title.
(3) Information to consumers
Each electric utility shall transmit to each of its electric
consumers information regarding rate schedules in accordance with
the requirements of section 2625(f) of this title.
(4) Procedures for termination of electric service
No electric utility may terminate electric service to any
electric consumer except pursuant to procedures described in
section 2625(g) of this title.
(5) Advertising
No electric utility may recover from any person other than the
shareholders (or other owners) of such utility any direct or
indirect expenditure by such utility for promotional or political
advertising as defined in section 2625(h) of this title.
(c) Procedural requirements
Each State regulatory authority (with respect to each electric
utility for which it has ratemaking authority) and each
nonregulated electric utility, within the two-year period specified
in subsection (a) of this section, shall (1) adopt, pursuant to
subsection (a) of this section, each of the standards established
by subsection (b) of this section, or, (2) with respect to any such
standard which is not adopted, such authority or nonregulated
electric utility shall state in writing that it has determined not
to adopt such standard, together with the reasons for such
determination. Such statement of reasons shall be available to the
public.
-SOURCE-
(Pub. L. 95-617, title I, Sec. 113, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3123.)
-SECREF-
SECTION REFERRED TO IN OTHER SECTIONS
This section is referred to in sections 2625, 2626, 2627, 2641 of
this title.
-CITE-
16 USC Sec. 2624 01/06/03
-EXPCITE-
TITLE 16 - CONSERVATION
CHAPTER 46 - PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES
SUBCHAPTER II - STANDARDS FOR ELECTRIC UTILITIES
-HEAD-
Sec. 2624. Lifeline rates
-STATUTE-
(a) Lower rates
No provision of this chapter prohibits a State regulatory
authority (with respect to an electric utility for which it has
ratemaking authority) or a nonregulated electric utility from
fixing, approving, or allowing to go into effect a rate for
essential needs (as defined by the State regulatory authority or by
the nonregulated electric utility, as the case may be) of
residential electric consumers which is lower than a rate under the
standard referred to in section 2621(d)(1) of this title.
(b) Determination
If any State regulated electric utility or nonregulated electric
utility does not have a lower rate as described in subsection (a)
of this section in effect two years after November 9, 1978, the
State regulatory authority having ratemaking authority with respect
to such State regulated electric utility or the nonregulated
electric utility, as the case may be, shall determine, after an
evidentiary hearing, whether such a rate should be implemented by
such utility.
(c) Prior proceedings
Section 2634 of this title shall not apply to the requirements of
this section.
-SOURCE-
(Pub. L. 95-617, title I, Sec. 114, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3124.)
-CITE-
16 USC Sec. 2625 01/06/03
-EXPCITE-
TITLE 16 - CONSERVATION
CHAPTER 46 - PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES
SUBCHAPTER II - STANDARDS FOR ELECTRIC UTILITIES
-HEAD-
Sec. 2625. Special rules for standards
-STATUTE-
(a) Cost of service
In undertaking the consideration and making the determination
under section 2621 of this title with respect to the standard
concerning cost of service established by section 2621(d)(1) of
this title, the costs of providing electric service to each class
of electric consumers shall, to the maximum extent practicable, be
determined on the basis of methods prescribed by the State
regulatory authority (in the case of a State regulated electric
utility) or by the electric utility (in the case of a nonregulated
electric utility). Such methods shall to the maximum extent
practicable -
(1) permit identification of differences in cost-incurrence,
for each such class of electric consumers, attributable to daily
and seasonal time of use of service and
(2) permit identification of differences in cost-incurrence
attributable to differences in customer demand, and energy
components of cost. In prescribing such methods, such State
regulatory authority or nonregulated electric utility shall take
into account the extent to which total costs to an electric
utility are likely to change if -
(A) additional capacity is added to meet peak demand relative
to base demand; and
(B) additional kilowatt-hours of electric energy are
delivered to electric consumers.
(b) Time-of-day rates
In undertaking the consideration and making the determination
required under section 2621 of this title with respect to the
standard for time-of-day rates established by section 2621(d)(3) of
this title, a time-of-day rate charged by an electric utility for
providing electric service to each class of electric consumers
shall be determined to be cost-effective with respect to each such
class if the long-run benefits of such rate to the electric utility
and its electric consumers in the class concerned are likely to
exceed the metering costs and other costs associated with the use
of such rates.
(c) Load management techniques
In undertaking the consideration and making the determination
required under section 2621 of this title with respect to the
standard for load management techniques established by section
2621(d)(6) of this title, a load management technique shall be
determined, by the State regulatory authority or nonregulated
electric utility, to be cost-effective if -
(1) such technique is likely to reduce maximum kilowatt demand
on the electric utility, and
(2) the long-run cost-savings to the utility of such reduction
are likely to exceed the long-run costs to the utility associated
with implementation of such technique.
(d) Master metering
Separate metering shall be determined appropriate for any new
building for purposes of section 2623(b)(1) of this title if -
(1) there is more than one unit in such building,
(2) the occupant of each such unit has control over a portion
of the electric energy used in such unit, and
(3) with respect to such portion of electric energy used in
such unit, the long-run benefits to the electric consumers in
such building exceed the costs of purchasing and installing
separate meters in such building.
(e) Automatic adjustment clauses
(1) An automatic adjustment clause of an electric utility meets
the requirements of this subsection if -
(A) such clause is determined, not less often than every four
years, by the State regulatory authority (with respect to an
electric utility for which it has ratemaking authority) or by the
electric utility (in the case of a nonregulated electric
utility), after an evidentiary hearing, to provide incentives for
efficient use of resources (including incentives for economical
purchase and use of fuel and electric energy) by such electric
utility, and
(B) such clause is reviewed not less often than every two
years, in the manner described in paragraph (2), by the State
regulatory authority having ratemaking authority with respect to
such utility (or by the electric utility in the case of a
nonregulated electric utility), to insure the maximum economies
in those operations and purchases which affect the rates to which
such clause applies.
(2) In making a review under subparagraph (B) of paragraph (1)
with respect to an electric utility, the reviewing authority shall
examine and, if appropriate, cause to be audited the practices of
such electric utility relating to costs subject to an automatic
adjustment clause, and shall require such reports as may be
necessary to carry out such review (including a disclosure of any
ownership or corporate relationship between such electric utility
and the seller to such utility of fuel, electric energy, or other
items).
(3) As used in this subsection and section 2623(b) of this title,
the term ''automatic adjustment clause'' means a provision of a
rate schedule which provides for increases or decreases (or both),
without prior hearing, in rates reflecting increases or decreases
(or both) in costs incurred by an electric utility. Such term does
not include an interim rate which takes effect subject to a later
determination of the appropriate amount of the rate.
(f) Information to consumers
(1) For purposes of the standard for information to consumers
established by section 2623(b)(3) of this title, each electric
utility shall transmit to each of its electric consumers a clear
and concise explanation of the existing rate schedule and any rate
schedule applied for (or proposed by a nonregulated electric
utility) applicable to such consumer. Such statement shall be
transmitted to each such consumer -
(A) not later than sixty days after the date of commencement of
service to such consumer or ninety days after the standard
established by section 2623(b)(3) of this title is adopted with
respect to such electric utility, whichever last occurs, and
(B) not later than thirty days (sixty days in the case of an
electric utility which uses a bimonthly billing system) after
such utility's application for any change in a rate schedule
applicable to such consumer (or proposal of such a change in the
case of a nonregulated utility).
(2) For purposes of the standard for information to consumers
established by section 2623(b)(3) of this title, each electric
utility shall transmit to each of its electric consumers not less
frequently than once each year -
(A) a clear and concise summary of the existing rate schedules
applicable to each of the major classes of its electric consumers
for which there is a separate rate, and
(B) an identification of any classes whose rates are not
summarized.
Such summary may be transmitted together with such consumer's
billing or in such other manner as the State regulatory authority
or nonregulated electric utility deems appropriate.
(3) For purposes of the standard for information to consumers
established by section 2623(b)(3) of this title, each electric
utility, on request of an electric consumer of such utility, shall
transmit to such consumer a clear and concise statement of the
actual consumption (or degree-day adjusted consumption) of electric
energy by such consumer for each billing period during the prior
year (unless such consumption data is not reasonably ascertainable
by the utility).
(g) Procedures for termination of electric service
The procedures for termination of service referred to in section
2623(b)(4) of this title are procedures prescribed by the State
regulatory authority (with respect to electric utilities for which
it has ratemaking authority) or by the nonregulated electric
utility which provide that -
(1) no electric service to an electric consumer may be
terminated unless reasonable prior notice (including notice of
rights and remedies) is given to such consumer and such consumer
has a reasonable opportunity to dispute the reasons for such
termination, and
(2) during any period when termination of service to an
electric consumer would be especially dangerous to health, as
determined by the State regulatory authority (with respect to an
electric utility for which it has ratemaking authority) or
nonregulated electric utility, and such consumer establishes that
-
(A) he is unable to pay for such service in accordance with
the requirements of the utility's billing, or
(B) he is able to pay for such service but only in
installments,
such service may not be terminated.
Such procedures shall take into account the need to include
reasonable provisions for elderly and handicapped consumers.
(h) Advertising
(1) For purposes of this section and section 2623(b)(5) of this
title -
(A) The term ''advertising'' means the commercial use, by an
electric utility, of any media, including newspaper, printed
matter, radio, and television, in order to transmit a message to
a substantial number of members of the public or to such
utility's electric consumers.
(B) The term ''political advertising'' means any advertising
for the purpose of influencing public opinion with respect to
legislative, administrative, or electoral matters, or with
respect to any controversial issue of public importance.
(C) The term ''promotional advertising'' means any advertising
for the purpose of encouraging any person to select or use the
service or additional service of an electric utility or the
selection or installation of any appliance or equipment designed
to use such utility's service.
(2) For purposes of this subsection and section 2623(b)(5) of
this title, the terms ''political advertising'' and ''promotional
advertising'' do not include -
(A) advertising which informs electric consumers how they can
conserve energy or can reduce peak demand for electric energy,
(B) advertising required by law or regulation, including
advertising required under part 1 of title II of the National
Energy Conservation Policy Act (42 U.S.C. 8211 et seq.),
(C) advertising regarding service interruptions, safety
measures, or emergency conditions,
(D) advertising concerning employment opportunities with such
utility,
(E) advertising which promotes the use of energy efficient
appliances, equipment or services, or
(F) any explanation or justification of existing or proposed
rate schedules, or notifications of hearings thereon.
-SOURCE-
(Pub. L. 95-617, title I, Sec. 115, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3125.)
-REFTEXT-
REFERENCES IN TEXT
The National Energy Conservation Policy Act, referred to in
subsec. (h)(2)(B), is Pub. L. 95-619, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3206,
as amended. Part 1 of title II of the National Energy Conservation
Policy Act was classified generally to part A (Sec. 8211 et seq.)
of subchapter II of chapter 91 of Title 42, The Public Health and
Welfare, and was omitted from the Code pursuant to section 8229 of
Title 42 which terminated authority under that part June 30, 1989.
For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short
Title note set out under section 8201 of Title 42 and Tables.
-SECREF-
SECTION REFERRED TO IN OTHER SECTIONS
This section is referred to in sections 2621, 2623 of this title.
-CITE-
16 USC Sec. 2626 01/06/03
-EXPCITE-
TITLE 16 - CONSERVATION
CHAPTER 46 - PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES
SUBCHAPTER II - STANDARDS FOR ELECTRIC UTILITIES
-HEAD-
Sec. 2626. Reports respecting standards
-STATUTE-
(a) State authorities and nonregulated utilities
Not later than one year after November 9, 1978, and annually
thereafter for ten years, each State regulatory authority (with
respect to each State regulated electric utility for which it has
ratemaking authority), and each nonregulated electric utility,
shall report to the Secretary, in such manner as the Secretary
shall prescribe, respecting its consideration of the standards
established by sections 2621(d) and 2623(b) of this title. Such
report shall include a summary of the determinations made and
actions taken with respect to each such standard on a
utility-by-utility basis.
(b) Secretary
Not later than eighteen months after November 9, 1978, and
annually thereafter for ten years, the Secretary shall submit a
report to the President and the Congress containing -
(1) a summary of the reports submitted under subsection (a) of
this section,
(2) his analysis of such reports, and
(3) his actions under this chapter, and his recommendations for
such further Federal actions, including any legislation,
regarding retail electric utility rates (and other practices) as
may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this chapter.
-SOURCE-
(Pub. L. 95-617, title I, Sec. 116, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3128.)
-CITE-
16 USC Sec. 2627 01/06/03
-EXPCITE-
TITLE 16 - CONSERVATION
CHAPTER 46 - PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES
SUBCHAPTER II - STANDARDS FOR ELECTRIC UTILITIES
-HEAD-
Sec. 2627. Relationship to State law
-STATUTE-
(a) Revenue and rate of return
Nothing in this chapter shall authorize or require the recovery
by an electric utility of revenues, or of a rate of return, in
excess of, or less than, the amount of revenues or the rate of
return determined to be lawful under any other provision of law.
(b) State authority
Nothing in this chapter prohibits any State regulatory authority
or nonregulated electric utility from adopting, pursuant to State
law, any standard or rule affecting electric utilities which is
different from any standard established by this subchapter.
(c) Federal agencies
With respect to any electric utility which is a Federal agency,
and with respect to the Tennessee Valley Authority when it is
treated as a State regulatory authority as provided in section
2602(17) of this title, any reference in section 2621 or 2623 of
this title to State law shall be treated as a reference to Federal
law.
-SOURCE-
(Pub. L. 95-617, title I, Sec. 117, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3128.)
-CITE-
16 USC SUBCHAPTER III - INTERVENTION AND JUDICIAL REVIEW 01/06/03
-EXPCITE-
TITLE 16 - CONSERVATION
CHAPTER 46 - PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES
SUBCHAPTER III - INTERVENTION AND JUDICIAL REVIEW
.
-HEAD-
SUBCHAPTER III - INTERVENTION AND JUDICIAL REVIEW
-SECREF-
SUBCHAPTER REFERRED TO IN OTHER SECTIONS
This subchapter is referred to in section 2613 of this title.
-CITE-
16 USC Sec. 2631 01/06/03
-EXPCITE-
TITLE 16 - CONSERVATION
CHAPTER 46 - PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES
SUBCHAPTER III - INTERVENTION AND JUDICIAL REVIEW
-HEAD-
Sec. 2631. Intervention in proceedings
-STATUTE-
(a) Authority to intervene and participate
In order to initiate and participate in the consideration of one
or more of the standards established by subchapter II of this
chapter or other concepts which contribute to the achievement of
the purposes of this chapter, the Secretary, any affected electric
utility, or any electric consumer of an affected electric utility
may intervene and participate as a matter of right in any
ratemaking proceeding or other appropriate regulatory proceeding
relating to rates or rate design which is conducted by a State
regulatory authority (with respect to an electric utility for which
it has ratemaking authority) or by a nonregulated electric utility.
(b) Access to information
Any intervenor or participant in a proceeding described in
subsection (a) of this section shall have access to information
available to other parties to the proceeding if such information is
relevant to the issues to which his intervention or participation
in such proceeding relates. Such information may be obtained
through reasonable rules relating to discovery of information
prescribed by the State regulatory authority (in the case of
proceedings concerning electric utilities for which it has
ratemaking authority) or by the nonregulated electric utility (in
the case of a proceeding conducted by a nonregulated electric
utility).
(c) Effective date; procedures
Any intervention or participation under this section, in any
proceeding commenced before November 9, 1978, but not completed
before such date, shall be permitted under this section only to the
extent such intervention or participation is timely under otherwise
applicable law.
-SOURCE-
(Pub. L. 95-617, title I, Sec. 121, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3128.)
-REFTEXT-
REFERENCES IN TEXT
This chapter, referred to in subsec. (a), was in the original
''this title'', meaning title I (Sec. 101 et seq.) of Pub. L.
95-617, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3120, which enacted this chapter and
amended sections 6801 to 6808 of Title 42, The Public Health and
Welfare. For complete classification of title I to the Code, see
Tables.
-SECREF-
SECTION REFERRED TO IN OTHER SECTIONS
This section is referred to in sections 2621, 2622, 2633, 2634 of
this title.
-CITE-
16 USC Sec. 2632 01/06/03
-EXPCITE-
TITLE 16 - CONSERVATION
CHAPTER 46 - PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES
SUBCHAPTER III - INTERVENTION AND JUDICIAL REVIEW
-HEAD-
Sec. 2632. Consumer representation
-STATUTE-
(a) Compensation for costs of participation or intervention
(1) If no alternative means for assuring representation of
electric consumers is adopted in accordance with subsection (b) of
this section and if an electric consumer of an electric utility
substantially contributed to the approval, in whole or in part, of
a position advocated by such consumer in a proceeding concerning
such utility, and relating to any standard set forth in subchapter
II of this chapter, such utility shall be liable to compensate such
consumer (pursuant to paragraph (2)) for reasonable attorneys'
fees, expert witness fees, and other reasonable costs incurred in
preparation and advocacy of such position in such proceeding
(including fees and costs of obtaining judicial review of any
determination made in such proceeding with respect to such
position).
(2) A consumer entitled to fees and costs under paragraph (1) may
collect such fees and costs from an electric utility by bringing a
civil action in any State court of competent jurisdiction, unless
the State regulatory authority (in the case of a proceeding
concerning a State regulated electric utility) or nonregulated
electric utility (in the case of a proceeding concerning such
nonregulated electric utility) has adopted a reasonable procedure
pursuant to which such authority or nonregulated electric utility -
(A) determines the amount of such fees and costs, and
(B) includes an award of such fees and costs in its order in
the proceeding.
(3) The procedure adopted by such State regulatory authority or
nonregulated utility under paragraph (2) may include a preliminary
proceeding to require that -
(A) as a condition of receiving compensation under such
procedure such consumer demonstrate that, but for the ability to
receive such award, participation or intervention in such
proceeding may be a significant financial hardship for such
consumer, and
(B) persons with the same or similar interests have a common
legal representative in the proceeding as a condition to
receiving compensation.
(b) Alternative means
Compensation shall not be required under subsection (a) of this
section if the State, the State regulatory authority (in the case
of a proceeding concerning a State regulated electric utility), or
the nonregulated electric utility (in the case of a proceeding
concerning such nonregulated electric utility) has provided an
alternative means for providing adequate compensation to persons -
(1) who have, or represent, an interest -
(A) which would not otherwise be adequately represented in
the proceeding, and
(B) representation of which is necessary for a fair
determination in the proceeding, and
(2) who are, or represent an interest which is, unable to
effectively participate or intervene in the proceeding because
such persons cannot afford to pay reasonable attorneys' fees,
expert witness fees, and other reasonable costs of preparing for,
and participating or intervening in, such proceeding (including
fees and costs of obtaining judicial review of such proceeding).
(c) Transcripts
The State regulatory authority or nonregulated electric utility,
as the case may be, shall make transcripts of the proceeding
available, at cost of reproduction, to parties or intervenors in
any ratemaking proceeding, or other regulatory proceeding relating
to rates or rate design, before a State regulatory authority or
nonregulated electric utility.
(d) Federal agencies
Any claim under this section against any Federal agency shall be
subject to the availability of appropriated funds.
(e) Rights under other authority
Nothing in this section affects or restricts any rights of any
participant or intervenor in any proceeding under any other
applicable law or rule of law.
-SOURCE-
(Pub. L. 95-617, title I, Sec. 122, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3129.)
-SECREF-
SECTION REFERRED TO IN OTHER SECTIONS
This section is referred to in section 2621 of this title.
-CITE-
16 USC Sec. 2633 01/06/03
-EXPCITE-
TITLE 16 - CONSERVATION
CHAPTER 46 - PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES
SUBCHAPTER III - INTERVENTION AND JUDICIAL REVIEW
-HEAD-
Sec. 2633. Judicial review and enforcement
-STATUTE-
(a) Limitation of Federal jurisdiction
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, no court of the
United States shall have jurisdiction over any action arising under
any provision of subchapter I or II of this chapter or of this
subchapter except for -
(1) an action over which a court of the United States has
jurisdiction under subsection (b) or (c)(2) of this section; and
(2) review of any action in the Supreme Court of the United
States in accordance with sections 1257 and 1258 of title 28.
(b) Enforcement of intervention right
(1) The Secretary may bring an action in any appropriate court of
the United States to enforce his right to intervene and participate
under section 2631(a) of this title, and such court shall have
jurisdiction to grant appropriate relief.
(2) If any electric utility or electric consumer having a right
to intervene under section 2631(a) of this title is denied such
right by any State court, such electric utility or electric
consumer may bring an action in the appropriate United States
district court to require the State regulatory authority or
nonregulated electric utility to permit such intervention and
participation, and such court shall have jurisdiction to grant
appropriate relief.
(3) Nothing in this subsection prohibits any person bringing any
action under this subsection in a court of the United States from
seeking review and enforcement at any time in any State court of
any rights he may have with respect to any motion to intervene or
participate in any proceeding.
(c) Review and enforcement
(1) Any person (including the Secretary) may obtain review of any
determination made under subchapter I or II of this chapter or
under this subchapter with respect to any electric utility (other
than a utility which is a Federal agency) in the appropriate State
court if such person (or the Secretary) intervened or otherwise
participated in the original proceeding or if State law otherwise
permits such review. Any person (including the Secretary) may
bring an action to enforce the requirements of this chapter in the
appropriate State court, except that no such action may be brought
in a State court with respect to a utility which is a Federal
agency. Such review or action in a State court shall be pursuant
to any applicable State procedures.
(2) Any person (including the Secretary) may obtain review in the
appropriate court of the United States of any determination made
under subchapter I or II of this chapter or this subchapter by a
Federal agency if such person (or the Secretary) intervened or
otherwise participated in the original proceeding or if otherwise
applicable law permits such review. Such court shall have
jurisdiction to grant appropriate relief. Any person (including
the Secretary) may bring an action to enforce the requirements of
subchapter I or II of this chapter or this subchapter with respect
to any Federal agency in the appropriate court of the United States
and such court shall have jurisdiction to grant appropriate relief.
(3) In addition to his authority to obtain review under paragraph
(1) or (2), the Secretary may also participate as an amicus curiae
in any review by any court of an action arising under the
provisions of subchapter I or II of this chapter or this
subchapter.
(d) Other authority of Secretary
Nothing in this section prohibits the Secretary from -
(1) intervening and participating in any proceeding, or
(2) intervening and participating in any review by any court of
any action
under section 6804 of title 42.
-SOURCE-
(Pub. L. 95-617, title I, Sec. 123, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3130.)
-SECREF-
SECTION REFERRED TO IN OTHER SECTIONS
This section is referred to in sections 824a-3, 2621, 2623 of
this title.
-CITE-
16 USC Sec. 2634 01/06/03
-EXPCITE-
TITLE 16 - CONSERVATION
CHAPTER 46 - PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES
SUBCHAPTER III - INTERVENTION AND JUDICIAL REVIEW
-HEAD-
Sec. 2634. Prior and pending proceedings
-STATUTE-
For purposes of subchapters I and II of this chapter, and this
subchapter, proceedings commenced by State regulatory authorities
(with respect to electric utilities for which it has ratemaking
authority) and nonregulated electric utilities before November 9,
1978, and actions taken before such date in such proceedings shall
be treated as complying with the requirements of subchapters I and
II of this chapter, and this subchapter if such proceedings and
actions substantially conform to such requirements. For purposes
of subchapters I and II of this chapter, and this subchapter, any
such proceeding or action commenced before November 9, 1978, but
not completed before such date, shall comply with the requirements
of subchapters I and II of this chapter, and this subchapter, to
the maximum extent practicable, with respect to so much of such
proceeding or action as takes place after such date, except as
otherwise provided in section 2631(c) of this title.
-SOURCE-
(Pub. L. 95-617, title I, Sec. 124, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3131.)
-SECREF-
SECTION REFERRED TO IN OTHER SECTIONS
This section is referred to in sections 2621, 2622, 2624 of this
title.
-CITE-
16 USC SUBCHAPTER IV - ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS 01/06/03
-EXPCITE-
TITLE 16 - CONSERVATION
CHAPTER 46 - PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES
SUBCHAPTER IV - ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS
.
-HEAD-
SUBCHAPTER IV - ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS
-CITE-
16 USC Sec. 2641 01/06/03
-EXPCITE-
TITLE 16 - CONSERVATION
CHAPTER 46 - PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES
SUBCHAPTER IV - ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS
-HEAD-
Sec. 2641. Voluntary guidelines
-STATUTE-
The Secretary may prescribe voluntary guidelines respecting the
standards established by sections 2621(d) and 2623(b) of this
title. Such guidelines may not expand the scope or legal effect of
such standards or establish additional standards respecting
electric utility rates.
-SOURCE-
(Pub. L. 95-617, title I, Sec. 131, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3131.)
-CITE-
16 USC Sec. 2642 01/06/03
-EXPCITE-
TITLE 16 - CONSERVATION
CHAPTER 46 - PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES
SUBCHAPTER IV - ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS
-HEAD-
Sec. 2642. Responsibilities of Secretary
-STATUTE-
(a) Authority
The Secretary may periodically notify the State regulatory
authorities, and electric utilities identified pursuant to section
2612(c) of this title, of -
(1) load management techniques and the results of studies and
experiments concerning load management techniques;
(2) developments and innovations in electric utility ratemaking
throughout the United States, including the results of studies
and experiments in rate structure and rate reform;
(3) methods for determining cost of service; and
(4) any other data or information which the Secretary
determines would assist such authorities and utilities in
carrying out the provisions of this chapter.
(b) Technical assistance
The Secretary may provide such technical assistance as he
determines appropriate to assist the State regulatory authorities
in carrying out their responsibilities under subchapter II of this
chapter and as is requested by any State regulatory authority
relating to the standards established by subchapter II of this
chapter.
(c) Appropriations
There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out the purposes
of subsection (b) of this section not to exceed $1,000,000 for each
of the fiscal years 1979 and 1980.
-SOURCE-
(Pub. L. 95-617, title I, Sec. 132, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3131.)
-REFTEXT-
REFERENCES IN TEXT
This chapter, referred to in subsec. (a)(4), was in the original
''this title'', meaning title I (Sec. 101 et seq.) of Pub. L.
95-617, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3120, which enacted this chapter and
amended sections 6801 to 6808 of Title 42, The Public Health and
Welfare. For complete classification of title I to the Code, see
Tables.
-CITE-
16 USC Sec. 2643 01/06/03
-EXPCITE-
TITLE 16 - CONSERVATION
CHAPTER 46 - PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES
SUBCHAPTER IV - ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS
-HEAD-
Sec. 2643. Gathering information on costs of service
-STATUTE-
(a) Information required to be gathered
Each electric utility shall periodically gather information under
such rules (promulgated by the Commission) as the Commission
determines necessary to allow determination of the costs associated
with providing electric service. For purposes of this section, and
for purposes of any consideration and determination respecting the
standard established by section 2621(d)(2) of this title, such
costs shall be separated, to the maximum extent practicable, into
the following components: customer cost component, demand cost
component, and energy cost component. Rules under this subsection
shall include requirements for the gathering of the following
information with respect to each electric utility -
(1) the costs of serving each electric consumer class,
including costs of serving different consumption patterns within
such class, based on voltage level, time of use, and other
appropriate factors;
(2) daily kilowatt demand load curves for all electric consumer
classes combined representative of daily and seasonal differences
in demand, and daily kilowatt demand load curves for each
electric consumer class for which there is a separate rate,
representative of daily and seasonal differences in demand;
(3) annual capital, operating, and maintenance costs -
(A) for transmission and distribution services, and
(B) for each type of generating unit; and
(4) costs of purchased power, including representative daily
and seasonal differences in the amount of such costs.
Such rules shall provide that information required to be gathered
under this section shall be presented in such categories and such
detail as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this
section.
(b) Commission rules
The Commission shall, within 180 days after November 9, 1978, by
rule, prescribe the methods, procedure, and format to be used by
electric utilities in gathering the information described in this
section. Such rules may provide for the exemption by the
Commission of an electric utility or class of electric utilities
from gathering all or part of such information, in cases where such
utility or utilities show and the Commission finds, after public
notice and opportunity for the presentation of written data, views,
and arguments, that gathering such information is not likely to
carry out the purposes of this section. The Commission shall
periodically review such findings and may revise such rules.
(c) Filing and publication
Not later than two years after November 9, 1978, and
periodically, but not less frequently than every two years
thereafter, each electric utility shall file with -
(1) the Commission, and
(2) any State regulatory authority which has ratemaking
authority for such utility,
the information gathered pursuant to this section and make such
information available to the public in such form and manner as the
Commission shall prescribe. In addition, at the time of
application for, or proposal of, any rate increase, each electric
utility shall make such information available to the public in such
form and manner as the Commission shall prescribe. The two-year
period after November 9, 1978, specified in this subsection may be
extended by the Commission for a reasonable additional period in
the case of any electric utility for good cause shown.
(d) Enforcement
For purposes of enforcement, any violation of a requirement of
this section shall be treated as a violation of a provision of the
Energy Supply and Environmental Coordination Act of 1974 (15 U.S.C.
791 et seq.) enforceable under section 12 of such Act (15 U.S.C.
797) (notwithstanding any expiration date in such Act) except that
in applying the provisions of such section 12 any reference to the
Federal Energy Administrator shall be treated as a reference to the
Commission.
-SOURCE-
(Pub. L. 95-617, title I, Sec. 133, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3132.)
-REFTEXT-
REFERENCES IN TEXT
The Energy Supply and Environmental Coordination Act of 1974,
referred to in subsec. (d), is Pub. L. 93-319, June 22, 1974, 88
Stat. 246, as amended, which is classified principally to chapter
16C (Sec. 791 et seq.) of Title 15, Commerce and Trade. For
complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title
note set out under section 791 of Title 15 and Tables.
-CITE-
16 USC Sec. 2644 01/06/03
-EXPCITE-
TITLE 16 - CONSERVATION
CHAPTER 46 - PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES
SUBCHAPTER IV - ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS
-HEAD-
Sec. 2644. Relationship to other authority
-STATUTE-
Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to limit or affect any
authority of the Secretary or the Commission under any other
provision of law.
-SOURCE-
(Pub. L. 95-617, title I, Sec. 134, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3133.)
-CITE-
16 USC Sec. 2645 01/06/03
-EXPCITE-
TITLE 16 - CONSERVATION
CHAPTER 46 - PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES
SUBCHAPTER IV - ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS
-HEAD-
Sec. 2645. Utility regulatory institute
-STATUTE-
(a) Matching grants
The Secretary may make grants under this section to an institute
established by the National Association of Regulatory Utility
Commissioners to enable such institute to -
(1) conduct research on electric and gas utility regulatory
policy issues,
(2) develop data processing and retrieval methods for electric
and gas utility ratemaking, and
(3) perform other functions directly related to assisting State
regulatory authorities in carrying out their functions under
State law and this Act.
(b) Federal share
Grants under this section shall not be used to provide more than
the following percentages of the cost to the institute of carrying
out the activities specified in subsection (a) of this section:
(1) 80 percent for the fiscal year 1979; and
(2) 60 percent for the fiscal year 1980.
The remaining amounts expended by the institute may not be provided
from Federal sources.
(c) Restrictions
Grants under this section may not be made subject to terms and
conditions other than those the Secretary deems necessary for
purposes of administering this section and for purposes of assuring
that -
(1) all information gathered by the institute is available to
the Secretary, the Commission, and the public, and
(2) no portion of any such grant is used to support or oppose
any legislative proposal except by means of testimony by
representatives of the institute provided by invitation to a
committee of Congress or of a State legislature.
(d) Authorization of appropriations
There is authorized to be appropriated not more than $2,000,000
for each of the fiscal years 1979 and 1980 for purposes of making
grants under this section. No amounts may be appropriated for any
fiscal year after the fiscal year 1980 to carry out the purposes of
this section without a specific authorization of Congress.
-SOURCE-
(Pub. L. 95-617, title VI, Sec. 603, Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3165.)
-REFTEXT-
REFERENCES IN TEXT
This Act, referred to in subsec. (a)(3), is Pub. L. 95-617, Nov.
9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3117, as amended, known as the Public Utility
Regulatory Policies Act of 1978. For complete classification of
this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section
2601 of this title and Tables.
-COD-
CODIFICATION
This section was not enacted as part of title I of Pub. L. 95-617
which comprises this chapter.
-CITE-
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Enviado por: | El remitente no desea revelar su nombre |
Idioma: | inglés |
País: | Estados Unidos |