May 8, 2006—The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) voted to propose expanding inspection and maintenance standards for electric transmission and distribution systems.
Pending public input and final approval, electric distribution companies operating within Pennsylvania will be required to file, with the PUC, an initial inspection and maintenance plan for upcoming calendar years by Oct. 1, 2007, and every two years thereafter.
“The PUC is charged with ensuring electric reliability in Pennsylvania,” said Commission Chairman Wendell F. Holland. “Given the fundamental industry changes brought about by electric restructuring statewide and nationwide, as well as the lessons learned in the wake of the 2003 blackout in the Northeast, this Commission believes with these proposed regulations are necessary for maintaining sufficient levels of electric reliability in Pennsylvania.”
Information resulting from the Aug. 14, 2003, blackout in the Northeast showed the need for inspection and maintenance standards. One of the causes of the blackout was the failure to adequately manage tree growth along transmission lines.
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission ensures safe, reliable and reasonably priced electric, natural gas, water, telephone and transportation service for Pennsylvania consumers, by regulating public utilities and by serving as responsible stewards of competition. For more information, visit the Web site.
