Coalition for Fair Transmission Policy Applauds Transmission Language in Sen. Murkowski's Energy Blueprint

WASHINGTON, Feb. 4, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Coalition for Fair Transmission Policy commended Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) for addressing transmission issues in the energy blueprint unveiled today, including language reaffirming the principle that the costs ratepayers pay should be directly related to the measurable benefits received from a transmission project.  

"The coalition welcomes Sen. Murkowski's recommendations on national electric transmission policy. Congress is the appropriate forum for a vigorous debate over transmission, including the complex, controversial and potentially costly mandates by federal regulators to overhaul the electricity grid. Congress can—and should—consider the important issues raised by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's misguided transmission efforts in Order 1000," said Coalition President Sue Sheridan.

"The coalition is gratified that Sen. Murkowski specifically addressed cost allocation issues critically important to electricity consumers. The blueprint states: 'Congress should:  recognize that costs must be reasonably proportionate to measureable economic and reliability benefits.' This provision is identical to language in S. 400, bipartisan legislation introduced in 2011 that would protect consumers from footing the bill for electricity projects that provide no measureable benefits." Sheridan said.

"The Coalition supports legislative and regulatory policies that will lead to development of the nation's transmission systems, improved grid reliability and clean generation resources in a cost-effective manner for electric customers. 'Beneficiary pays' remains a bedrock principle of any equitable cost allocation formula for new transmission," Sheridan added.    

"2013 could become the Year of Transmission, given the Murkowski blueprint and encouraging news on the House side as well. The coalition welcomes these developments," Sheridan said.     

For more information, visit the Coalition's Web site, www.fairtransmission.org.

SOURCE Coalition for Fair Transmission Policy