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OPC’s Role in the Utility Arena
OPC’s role is distinctive: It is the sole entity dedicated to representing consumer interests. In a regulatory environment that includes the Council of the District of Columbia (D.C. Council), the PSC, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and the Environmental Protection Administration (EPA), OPC’s involvement gives consumers a platform from which to speak.
The Public Service Commission
The PSC is the decision-maker in the regulatory process. It sets utility rates and establishes policies that affect service quality. The Commission acts as a quasi-judicial body and is obligated to balance the interests of utility shareholders and ratepayers. By law, the PSC must base its decisions on the evidentiary record created by the parties in the cases.
The D.C. Council
The D.C. Council is the city’s legislative body and comprises 13 elected members. It plays a pivotal role
in overseeing various government agencies, including OPC. The body enacts legislation affecting utility consumers. OPC participates in Council hearings, presents its annual budget proposal for consideration, and advises on proposed utility-related D.C. legislation.
Federal Agencies
FERC, FCC, and EPA are federal regulatory agencies that oversee both interstate and international communications, natural gas, oil, electricity transmission, and environmental impacts. OPC represents the interests of District utility ratepayers before these agencies, the courts, and the U.S. Congress.
14 OPC’s Journey to Protect Utility Consumers