For Immediate Release
August 12, 2009
Contact: Nathan Flood
717-787-4420
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Senate Passes Brubaker Electricity Procurement Legislation

HARRISBURG – The Senate unanimously approved legislation today that would allow municipalities to reduce energy costs for consumers, according to Sen. Mike Brubaker (R-36).

Senate Bill 168 would give municipal governments the authority to take part in power supply and electric generation projects to secure affordable and reliable energy for consumers. The bill would allow boroughs to acquire electricity at the best value through memberships in non-profit member corporations.

Brubaker said that boroughs in other states have the authority to enter into electricity generation projects to benefit consumers, but Pennsylvania municipal governments do not have that authority under current law.

"Energy costs are expected to rise when rate caps expire, so it is very important to give municipalities the ability to negotiate power supply agreements that will benefit members of their community," Brubaker said. "This legislation would allow municipalities to choose the best value to meet their energy needs. I am thankful that my colleagues in the Senate share my concern for reducing energy costs for consumers."

Most recently, Ephrata Borough was faced with electricity rate increases when the municipality's contract ended in January. Brubaker said Senate Bill 168 would help Ephrata and other boroughs negotiate the best rate for consumers.

Senate Bill 168 will now go to the House of Representatives for consideration.