PUBLIC BENEFIT CHARGES:
The SCC has recommended that there be no public benefit charge at this time. The SCC feels that the competitive marketplace must be given an opportunity to determine if programs can be developed and services can be delivered without a public benefit fund. This may make sense based on economic theory, but in the real world of low-income families, this theory has no basis in fact. Low-income consumers have no real purchasing power and therefore do not participate fairly in the competitive market. Markets are based on who can pay not on who has the need for services. It is totally unrealistic to suggest that the market and/or the private sector will provide energy conservation service to low-income consumers. With no profit incentive, these folks will be bypassed by a competitive market. That is why the Federal government established the weatherization program over 20 years ago. These services are important and necessary for all of society and with federal money being cut dramatically, it is imperative that the State pick up the slack in order to keep programs like weatherization alive and well. A Public Benefit Fund financed by a non-bypassable wires charge is the only solution.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY:
The Weatherization program provides important energy conservation services to low-income citizens across the Commonwealth. Weatherization reduces home energy bills, makes homes healthier, which reduces health expenses, and makes homes more affordable, which frees up additional disposable income that can then be used for other important household expenses. This effort has several societal benefits to include the reduction of carbon emissions, saving of our natural resources, reducing utility arrearage problems, and preserving the environment. This and other energy efficiency programs are important and must be maintained and enhanced. Federal funds are no longer a reliable and stable funding option. Restructuring legislation must establish a public benefit fund, through a non-bypassable wires charge, to support the necessary continuation of energy efficiency efforts. This fund could easily be administered by a state housing agency or a private, non-profit entity.

Thanks for the opportunity for additional comments. Billy Weitzenfeld
(AECP)