Problems in the financial markets have been attributed in some measure to “deregulation” and ineffective regulation and oversight. But there is no corollary with the organized competitive electricity markets, which often are erroneously described as “deregulated.” While the electricity industry has undergone restructuring over the last decade, regulation and oversight are as strong now as they ever were before restructuring and vigorously protect against the same types of problems occurring in the electricity industry.

January 21, 2010

Dear Senator: 

Mr. Gates,

Washington, D.C. – In a clear demonstration of the widely diverse support for competitive electricity markets across the country, the COMPETE Coalition - a competitive electricity advocacy organization – announced it has surpassed the 400-member mark. Electricity customers, suppliers, generators, transmission providers, trade associations, environmental organizations and economic development corporations make COMPETE's membership roster one of the most diverse of its kind.

The COMPETE Coalition recently held a policy briefing on Capitol Hill examining how competitive electricity markets are driving innovation, empowering consumers, and protecting the environment. The event featured opening remarks by FERC Chairman Jon Wellinghoff and a panel discussion by COMPETE members. Below are a few of the most salient comments from those who monitor these markets and benefit from them on a daily basis.

Customer choice is thriving in many U.S. states and Canadian provinces because well-structured electricity markets foster the introduction of numerous product offerings and services that were not available in traditional electric markets, according to a new report issued today. The Annual Baseline Assessment of Choice in Canada and the United States (ABACCUS) was prepared by the Energy Retailer Research Consortium, an independent research consortium that supports retail energy choice.

Please click here to watch a video of the discussion between FERC Commissioner Marc Spitzer and former FERC Commissioner William Massey, on March 17, 2009.

Consumers, renewable energy producers, environmental advocates and innovative electricity service providers briefed Capitol Hill staff and the public today on the role competitive electricity markets play in addressing our nation’s pressing energy and environmental challenges.

Recent Examples of Rate Increases in Vertically Integrated States

Competitive electricity market reforms adopted by the Midwest Independent Transmission System Operator (Midwest ISO) are estimated to produce $1.72 billion in economic savings over a 10 year period, according to a new study sponsored by the COMPETE Coalition.