Regulatory lag: a possible solution. [Methods of Texas Public Utility Commission]

Journal Article · Thu Oct 11 04:00:00 EDT 1979 · Public Util. Fortn.; (United States)

OSTI ID:5743616

Cowden, G M

The Texas Public Utility Commission has succeeded in eliminating much of the regulatory lag which plagues other state commissions. For rate cases, an allowable time of 185 days during which the commission is required to act is explicitly stated in the Texas Public Utility Regulatory Act (the utility files 35 days prior, and the Commission acts within 120 days or has authority to add 30 days). Utilities may also post a bond and begin their proposed rate schedule, subject to refunds and adjustment, if the commission fails to reach a final decision within 90 days of the date the new rate would take effect. The author reviews recent challenges to the Texas procedure and disagrees with those requesting additional time for review and investigation. He credits reasonable compensation with the high-performance level and sense of commitment shown by commission staff members and suggests that the procedures of assigning direct responsibility, holding single hearings, and limiting original jurisdiction have eliminated regulatory lag in Texas. (DCK)

• Research Organization: Texas Public Utility Commission, Austin
• OSTI ID: 5743616
• Journal Information: Public Util. Fortn.; (United States), Journal Name: Public Util. Fortn.; (United States) Vol. 104:8; ISSN PUFNA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

29 ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY
293000* -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Policy
Legislation
& Regulation
ECONOMIC POLICY
GOVERNMENT POLICIES
LEGAL ASPECTS
NATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
PUBLIC UTILITIES
RATE STRUCTURE
REGULATIONS
US DOE
US FERC
US ORGANIZATIONS