Consumers count on Pepco to provide them with consistent and reliable service.  However, Pepco's response to the continued power outages that have plagued us this summer is unacceptable. 

Last Thursday, the Public Service Commission (PSC) officially opened an investigation into the reliability and quality of Pepco's distribution system. To view the PSC Order, click here. The investigation will include a review of Pepco's performance during the recent storms, as well as a comprehensive examination of Pepco's storm preparation and reliability.  The PSC has directed Pepco officials to appear in Baltimore, August 17th, at 9:30 AM to answer questions.  You can watch the hearing by clicking on this link, then click on "Proceedings".

While the PSC clearly has an important role to play in assessing Pepco's performance, I do not believe the Maryland General Assembly should rely exclusively on the PSC to adequately address this continuing problem which has affected thousands of Montgomery County residents.  We must take steps to help frame and guide the policy discussion taking place at the PSC.  I have been working with Montgomery County Councilmember, Roger Berliner, whose background is in energy law, to draft legislation that would (a) require the PSC to establish electric reliability standards within a year; (b) provide penalties for failing to meet standards and for failing to correct the worst areas; and (c) require annual reports that show their progress.  The bill is modeled after a recently enacted Texas statute and regulations currently in place in Delaware.  Presently, the PSC only requires reporting but there are no firm reliability standards, and no penalties for failing to meet such standards.