WPS and CUB propose innovative utility pilot programs

From an article on Market Watch:

GREEN BAY, Wis. and MADISON, Wis., Sept 02, 2008 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- The Citizens Utility Board (CUB) has filed a stipulation it agreed to with Wisconsin Public Service Corporation (WPS), a subsidiary of Integrys Energy Group, at the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin. In the stipulation, CUB and WPS agreed to several initiatives that will help WPS customers conserve energy. The proposal is subject to Commission approval.

In a four-year pilot, WPS will reduce its fixed customer charges, increase its annual contribution to Focus on Energy (the organization that promotes energy conservation statewide) in each of the four years, and conduct innovative rate offerings in three communities to increase customer awareness and ability to use energy more efficiently. In addition, WPS will support the Governor's Task Force recommendations regarding new or improved state building codes and new or improved standards for appliances.

To balance the potential for reduced revenues due to decreased energy use by its customers, WPS is proposing a revenue stabilization mechanism to begin in 2009 for most of its customers. With revenue stabilization, WPS will be assured a certain level of revenue for its natural gas and electric deliveries regardless of weather and other conditions. Under the mechanism, WPS's revenue level will be "trued up" annually. If WPS's revenues are higher than expected, customers will receive refunds. If WPS's revenues are lower than expected, WPS will recover the difference over the next year.

More from an article by Richard Ryman in the Green Bay Press-Gazette.