Under the 1996 electric competition law, electric rates - distribution, transmission, generation - charged by electricity companies were capped. For a majority of the state’s electric consumers, generation rates remain capped, meaning it is too early to examine the long-term impact of restructuring on consumers.

The electric competition law provided a framework for giving all retail electric customers direct access to alternative suppliers of generation. When the law was passed, the average electricity price in Pennsylvania was about 15 percent above the national average. Today, on average, the prices throughout Pennsylvania are at or below the national average.

In the last 10 years, the prices of natural gas and coal have doubled – both of those products are fuels used in the generation of electricity. While Pennsylvania consumers’ rates are capped, the market prices for electricity have risen – just as the prices of other good and services have risen.

The future expiration of those energy regulations, coupled with quickly rising global energy costs means that consumers in Philadlephia may face dramatic rises in utility costs in the future.

Democratic candidate for state representative Vanessa Brown, invites you to a special community event on the impact of these changes to consumers plus a chance for consumers to meet directly with representatives from their local utilities on issues a tad closer to home.

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT

ENERGY SUMMIT

Consumers are invited to attend a FREE Energy Summit on Monday, June 30, 2008, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the School of the Future, located at 4021 Parkside Avenue. The Summit is sponsored jointly by the West Philadelphia Coalition of Neighborhoods and Businesses, the PA Public Utility Commission, and Vanessa Brown, Democratic Nominee for State Representative of the 190th District.

Find out about restrictions placed on electric rate increases in 1996 that will expire in 2010. Electric rates could go up as much as 50%. Get suggestions on things you can do now to cut back on your electric use and save money. Find out about the rate increases that the Water Department is requesting each year for the next four years. Representatives from PECO, PGW, the Water Department, and other utilities, will be on hand to address these issues, answer questions about the programs they have to help low-income families pay their utility bills, and listen to your comments about their services. In addition, consumers who are having problems with their bills can bring their bills with them and talk to representatives from the utility companies about resolving the problem.

Additional information, giveaways, and light refreshments will be available.

For more information, contact the West Philadelphia Coalition of Neighborhoods and Businesses at (215) 476-0400

For folks unable to make the event, further information about the possible upcoming changes in utility costs please check the very informative attached RateCaps.pdf for more information.

P.S. Special thanks to Rep. Mark Cohen for helping to jog my memeory to pass on this announcement of this event.