N.J. Ratepayer Advocate Seema Singh Comments on 2006 Basic Generation Services Electric Auction Results

Newark, N.J.—The New Jersey Ratepayer Advocate, Seema M. Singh, today issued the following statement on the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities announcement of the results of the Basic Generation Services (BGS) auction of electric power:

“I am disappointed, but not surprised that the 2006 Basic Generation Services auction of electric power results show increases that range from 12 to 13.7 percent among New Jersey’s four electric distribution utilities. I had hoped that it would be lower because these increases in rates will be difficult for ratepayers to handle, particularly on top of other increases in energy costs. I strongly urge consumers to embrace conservation practices to help offset this change. This is the only way ratepayers can guarantee savings in these times of high energy prices.”

The average monthly bill will increase by the following:

• Public Service Electric and Gas Company (PSE&G) increased 13.7 percent with the average customer paying $9.91 more.
• Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L) increased 12.4 percent with the average customer paying $11.88 more.
• Rockland Electric Company (RECO) increased 12 percent with the average customer paying $13.48 more.
• Atlantic City Electric Company (ACECO) increased 12.54 percent with the average customer paying $12.62 more.

Singh also commented that the increases were due to rising energy costs overall, particularly in natural gas that is used to fuel many electric power plants.
Singh said consumers can contact the Ratepayer Advocate office for a free copy of the Consumer Conservation Handbook, which has energy-saving tips for the home and outdoors. Consumers can call 973-648-2690 or download the handbook at www.rpa.state.nj.us.

The Division of the Ratepayer Advocate is an independent state agency that represents the interests of consumers of electric, natural gas, water/sewer and telecommunications and cable TV service. It serves as an active participant in every proceeding whenever New Jersey companies seek changes in rates or services. The Ratepayer Advocate also gives consumers a voice in setting long-range energy, water, and telecommunications policy that will affect the delivery of services well into the future. Additional information on this and other matters can be found at the Division of Ratepayer Advocate’s website at http://www.rpa.state.nj.us

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