FMPA Weekly
A weekly e-newsletter for FMPA members
Sept. 2, 2014
LAST WEEK
FMPA Logo Apparel
FMPA launched FMPA Gear, a new and improved logo apparel program provided by Lands’ End. The new embroidered apparel program includes a larger variety of styles, colors and merchandise plus a more convenient online ordering process. FMPA members and staff are invited to purchase clothing and accessories with the Agency’s logo through the FMEA’s” rel=”nofollow”>http://publicpower.com/energy-connections-conference/>FMEA’s website for more information.
INDUSTRY NEWS
Supreme Court Upholds FPL Rate Increase
The Florida Supreme Court unanimously rejected a challenge to rate increases approved in 2012 for Florida Power & Light (FPL) saying it gives great deference to utility regulators. The state Office of Public Counsel challenged the rate increases that stemmed from an agreement reached by FPL and several major power users. The Florida Public Service Commission (PSC) approved a $350 million base-rate increase, along with plans for additional increases tied to three new power plants. The public counsel contended, in part, that the PSC did not follow the proper process in reviewing and approving the increases. Also, as the representative of consumers, the public counsel took issue with approval of a settlement that it opposed. The court said it has consistently given great deference to the PSC’s findings in such cases and that state law does not prevent the commission from approving settlements that lack unanimous support from the parties involved, including the Office of Public Counsel.
Gov. Scott Given List of Candidates for PSC Vacancies
A nominating panel for the Florida Public Service Commission (PSC) sent the names of seven finalists to Gov. Rick Scott as he prepares to make appointments for two upcoming vacancies on the PSC. The list includes PSC Commissioner Julie Brown, state Rep. Jimmy Patronis, former state Rep. Dave Murzin, Jerry Feandez, Stuart Pollins, Patrick Sheehan and Kevin Wiehle. The finalists were selected from a list of 16 candidates who interviewed for the two seats. The terms of Brown and Commissioner Eduardo Balbis, who did not seek reappointment, will expire in January.
FMPA Weekly is published by FMPA for employees and goveing boards of FMPA member utilities. Questions or comments about this newsletter may be directed to Ryan Dumas or Christin Senior in FMPA’s Public Relations Department.
Want more background on the names and terms used in this newsletter? Check out FMPA’s Glossary, which features some of the most frequently mentioned committees, companies, places and terms, or contact the person named in each FMPA story to lea more. (Click here for the Staff Directory.)
Have a question, comment or story idea for the newsletter? FMPA welcomes your feedback at any time. Contact: Ryan Dumas or Christin Senior
Florida Municipal Power Agency
8553 Commodity Circle
Orlando, FL 32819-9002
Tel 407 355-7767
Fax 407 355-5794
http://www.fmpa.com>www.fmpa.com
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