The General Assembly is currently on summer recess, with members slated to return to Harrisburg September 24. Between now and then, however, the four caucus Policy Committees will be holding various hearings throughout the state to focus on issues they feel will be important in the fall and the November 6 elections. All 203 districts in the state House of Representatives, and 25 of 50 seats in the state Senate are on the ballot this November, but attention will likely focus on no more than four or five Senate races and a dozen state House races.
Earlier this month, the Commonwealth Financing Authority met to consider grants and loans for a variety of programs. Among the projects approved for loans are three energy efficiency projects under the Alternative and Clean Energy Program. These loans will support projects for the Pittsburgh Symphony, the Borough of Mt. Oliver, and the Tyrone Hospital. One loan for residential geothermal installation was also approved by the CFA. The Authority continues to discuss and debate internally the future of grants under the state’s energy programs.
Meanwhile the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission continues its work through staff and stakeholders to assess Act 129 and a prospective extension of the programs included under that law. Act 129 governs a host of issues including EDC and default service provider responsibilities; conservation service providers; smart meter technology; time-of-use rates; real-time pricing plans; default service procurement; market misconduct; alternative energy sources; and cost recovery.