Other News

Other News by Competitive Assets
Copyright 2017 by Competitive Assets, LLC.  All rights reserved

June 13, 2017

NOV Filed for Senate Wind, LLC
A Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement was filed by PUCT staff relating to Senate Wind, LLC’s violation of PURA, PUCT Substantive Rules, and ERCOT Protocols regarding market participant audits of user security administrators and digital certificates. The NOV states that Senate Wind has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $5,000.

June 7, 2017

NOV Filed for Credit Suisse Energy
A Notice of Violation (NOV) and Settlement Agreement has been filed by Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) staff concerning violations of the Public Utility Regulatory Act (PURA), PUCT Substantive Rules, and ERCOT Protocols by Credit Suisse Energy, LLC (CSE). The NOV concerns violations related to market participant audits of user security administrators and digital certificates.   CSE is registered as a counterparty and Qualified Scheduling Entity (QSE).  CSE has agreed to pay $7,500 in administrative penalties.

June 5, 2017

NOV for Victoria Electric Coop
The PUCT staff filed a Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement for Victoria Electric Cooperative, Inc. The NOV is related to Victoria Electric’s violation of PURA and ERCOT Protocols relating to market participant audits of user security administrators and digital certificates.  Victoria Electric has agreed to pay $10,000 in administrative penalties.

May 30, 2017

NOV Filed for Calpine
Calpine Corporation has entered into a settlement with the PUCT staff concerning the PUCT’s investigation into Calpine’s violations of PURA and PUCT Substantive Rules related to oversight of wholesale market participants, and ERCOT Protocols related to energy offer curve for RUC-committed resources and accurate telemetry. The Notice of Violation states that Calpine has agreed to an administrative penalty of $30,000. The settlement agreement notes previous violations of Calpine.

Apr 25, 2017

NOV for EDF Trading
On 4/25/17 the PUCT staff filed an agreed Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement concerning to EDF Trading North America LLC’s violations of PURA, PUCT Substantive Rules and ERCOT Protocols related to Energy Offer Curve for RUC-Committed Resources.  EDF has agreed to an administrative penalty of $100,000.

Mar 31, 2017

NOV for Sharyland Utilities
On 3/30/17 the PUCT staff filed an agreed Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement relating to Sharyland Utilities, LP’s violation of PURA and PUCT Substantive Rules concerning transmission and distribution utility tariffs.  Sharyland has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $425,000.

NOV for TPC Group
On 3/30/17 the PUCT staff filed an agreed Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement related to TPC Group, LLC’s violation of PURA concerning essential organizations and PUCT Substantive Rules concerning oversight of wholesale market participants.  TPC has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $25,000.

Mar 15, 2017

NOV Recommendation for Viridity Energy
On 3/14/17 the PUCT staff filed a Notice of Violation For Viridity Energy, Inc. concerning Oversight of Wholesale Market Participants, and regarding Suspension of Qualification of Non-Weather-Sensitive Emergency Response Service Resources and/or their Qualified Scheduling Entities. It is recommended that Viridity pay an administrative penalty of $50,000.

Mar 8, 2017

NOV Relating to Twin Eagle Resource Management
On 3/8/17 the PUCT staff filed a Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement relating to Twin Eagle Resource Management, LLC’s violation of PURA, PUCT Subst. Rules, and ERCOT Protocols.  Twin Eagle failed to comply with ERCOT dispatch instructions and operational data requirements.  Twin Eagle has agreed to pay $125,000 in administrative penalties.

Mar 7, 2017

NOV for TPC Group
On 3/6/17 the PUCT staff filed a Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement related to TPC Group, LLC’s (TPC) violations of PURA related to essential organizations, and PUCT Substantive Rules related to oversight of wholesale market participants.  TPC is a Resource Entity owning a 35MW generation resource.  TPC failed to establish certain required settings on a new Power System Stabilizer that it installed, test the system, and place the system in service.  TPC failed to update its authorized representative with ERCOT, and failed to timely respond to certain Texas Reliability Entity (TRE) inquiries.  TPC has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $25,000.

Feb 20, 2017

NOV for Sharyland Relating to Transmission and Distribution Tariffs
On 2/17/17 the PUCT staff filed an Agreed Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement relating to Sharyland Utilities, L.P.’s violations of PURA and PUCT Substantive Rules concerning transmission and distribution tariffs. An analysis of the tariffs led the PCUT staff to conclude that Sharyland incorrectly transitioned 738 customers from the Small Secondary rate schedule to the Large secondary rate schedule from May 2014 through September 2016.  In addition, some customers that were appropriately transitioned from the small to large secondary rate were transitioned several months later than the tariff indicated that they should be.  Sharyland has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $425,000.

Jan 6, 2017

NOV Filed for Oncor Electric Delivery Company
On 1/5/17 the PUCT staff filed an Agreed Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement relating to Oncor Electric Delivery Company’s violation of PURA and PUCT rules concerning reliability and continuity of service. Oncor has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $288,500.  Oncor has further agreed to improve the performance of all its feeders, particularly those that have violated service quality and reliability standards for three or more consecutive years.

Jan 5, 2017

Luminant NOV and Settlement Agreement
On 1/4/17 the PUCT staff filed a Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement related to Luminant Energy Company LLC’s (a QSE) violations of PURA, PUCT rules, and ERCOT Protocols concerning performance criteria for Responsive Reserve Service energy deployment.  Luminant has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $170,000.

Dec 2, 2016

Notices of Violation Filed for NRG Texas Power, Entergy Texas, and CPS Energy
On 12/1/16 the PUCT staff filed a Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement for NRG Texas Power LLC relating to non-spinning reserve service energy deployment criteria. NRG Texas has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $40,000.

On this same date the PUCT staff filed a Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement for Entergy Texas Inc. relating to reliability and continuity of service. Entergy Texas has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $25,000.

Also on this same date the PUCT staff filed a Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement for CPS Energy relating to governor testing requirements. CPS Energy has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $35,000.

Nov 8, 2016

NOV Filed for Sharyland Concerning Reliability and Continuity of Service
A Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement was filed 11/7/16 by PUCT staff concerning a violation by Sharyland Utilities, LP Company’s violation of PURA and PUCT rules relating to reliability and continuity of service. Sharyland agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $15,000.

Nov 2, 2016

Settlement of NOV for GDF Suez Energy Marketing Related to Non-Spinning Reserve Service
On 11/1/16 the PUCT staff filed a Notice of Violation and Agreed Settlement for GDF Suez Energy Marketing NA, Inc’s related to Non-Spinning Reserve Service energy deployment criteria.  The Qualified Scheduling Entity (QSE) agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $30,000.

Settlement of NOV for AEP Texas Central Related to Reliability
On 11/1/16 the PUCT staff filed a Notice of Violation and Agreed Settlement for AEP Texas Central Company related to reliability and continuity of services.  AEP Central agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $89,000.

Settlement of NOV for AEP Texas North Related to Reliability
On 11/1/16 the PUCT staff filed a Notice of Violation and Agreed Settlement for AEP Texas North Company related to reliability and continuity of services.  AEP Central agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $76,000.

Settlement of NOV for Luminant Energy Related to Reactive Capability Testing
On 11/1/16 the PUCT staff filed a Notice of Violation and Agreed Settlement for Luminant Energy Company LLC related to maximum leading reactive capability testing.  Luminant Energy agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $35,000

Oct 28, 2016

CPS Energy Settles NOV on Governor Testing Requirements On 10/27/16 the PUCT staff filed a Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement relating to CPS Energy’s violation of PURA, PUCT Substantive Rules, and ERCOT Operating Guides relating to governor testing requirements.  CPS Energy is a QSE for generation resources, and has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $35,000.

Oct 21, 2016

Entergy NOV Concerning Reliability and Continuity of Service
On 10/20/16 the PUCT staff filed a Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement for Entergy Texas, Inc. (ETI) concerning of PURA and PUCT Substantive Rules relating to reliability and continuity of service.  The violations occurred during the reporting year 2015.  ETI has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $25,000.

Sept 20, 2016

NOV Filed Concerning Luminant Energy Company
On 9/19/16 the PUCT staff filed a Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement relating to violation by Luminant Energy Company LLC (Luminant) of PURA, PUCT Substantive Rules, and ERCOT Protocols and Operating Guides concerning reactive capability testing.  Luminant is a Qualified Scheduling Entity (QSE) in ERCOT.  Luminant has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $35,000.

Sept 15, 2016

NOV for GDF Suez Energy Marketing
On 9/14/16 the PUCT staff filed a Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement relating to GDF Suez Energy Marketing NA, Inc.’s violation of PURA, PUCT Substantive Rules, and ERCOT Protocols concerning Non-Spinning Reserve Service Energy Deployment Criteria.  GDF Suez has agreed to pay $30,000 in administrative penalties.

NOV for AEP Texas Central
On 9/14/16 the PUCT staff filed a Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement relating to AEP Texas Central Company’s violation of PURA and PUCT Substantive Rules concerning reliability and continuity of service.  AEP Texas Central has agreed to pay $89,000 in administrative penalties.

NOV for AEP Texas North
On 9/14/16 the PUCT staff filed a Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement relating to AEP Texas North Company’s violation of PURA and PUCT Substantive Rules concerning reliability and continuity of service. AEP Texas Central has agreed to pay $76,000 in administrative penalties.

Aug 25, 2016

NOV Filed for SPS Concerning Reliability and Continuity of Service
On 8/24/16 the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) staff filed a Notice of Violation (NOV) and Settlement Agreement relating to Southwestern Public Service Company’s (SPS) violation of the Public Utility Regulatory Act and PUCT Substantive Rules concerning reliability and continuity of service.  Outages on several feeders exceeded system-wide standards.  SPS has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $49,000.

Jan 13, 2016

NOV Filed Regarding Spark Energy and Customer Protection
On 1/12/16 a Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement was filed at the PUCT regarding Spark Energy, LLC’s violation of PUCT rules relating to the rate reduction program, bill payment and adjustments, and disconnection of service.  It was determined that Spark did not apply the low income reduction program discounts consistent with the rule, disconnected 6 customers who would not have been disconnected if the low income discount had been applied properly, and assessed late fees on 392 customers that were eligible for the low income discount in violation of the program.  Spark has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $160,000.

Jan 6, 2016

NOV Filed for FPL Energy Texas Keir
On 1/4/16 a Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement was filed at the PUCT relating to FPL Energy Texas Keir, LLC (aka Forney QSE) concerning rules on oversight of the wholesale market participants and ERCOT Protocols related to telemetry of status codes.  Forney QSE has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $21,000.

Jan 5, 2016

NOV for Austin Energy Settled
On 1/4/16 a Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement was filed at the PUCT for Austin Energy relating to primary frequency response. Austin Energy has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $40,000 as the final settlement of 14 alleged violations.

Nov 20, 2015

PUCT Sets 2016 Interest Rate for Customer Deposits
On 11/19/15 the PUCT set the interest rates for 2016 that will be applied to customer deposits, and also overbillings and certain underbillings.  The interest rate for deposits is 0.11 percent.  The rate for overbillings and underbillings is 0.18 percent.

Nov 19, 2015

NOVs Filed for AEP North and AEP Central Concerning Reliability and Continuity of Service
On 11/18/15 two Notices of Violation (NOVs) and Settlement Agreements were filed at the PUCT, one each for AEP North and AEP Central.  The NOVs concern violations of PURA and the PUCT Substantive Rules regarding reliability and continuity of Service.  AEP North and AEP Central agreed to pay administrative penalties of $25,000 and $57,000 respectively.

Nov 17, 2015

NOV filed for El Paso Electric
On 11/16/15 a Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement was filed relating to El Paso Electric Company’s (EPE) violation of PURA and PUCT rules concerning reliability and continuity of service.  EPE has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $6,000.

NOV filed for Entergy Texas
On 11/16/15 a Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement was filed relating to Entergy Texas, Inc.’s violation of PURA and PUCT rules concerning reliability and continuity of service.  Entergy has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $24,000.

Nov 9, 2015

Notice of Violation Filed Concerning TDU Reliability and Continuity of Service
On 11/6/15 a Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement was filed at the PUCT relating to CenterPoint Energy Houston Electric, LLC’s (CenterPoint) violation of PURA and PUCT Substantive Rules concerning reliability and continuity of service.  CenterPoint agreed to pay $8,000 in administrative penalties.

Notice of Violation Filed Regarding Generation Resource Primary Frequency Response Performance
On 11/6/15 a Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement was filed at the PUCT relating to CPS Energy’s violation of PURA, PUCT Rules, ERCOT Protocols, and ERCOT Operating Guides concerning generation resources that did not meet Primary Frequency Response performance requirements.  CPS Energy agreed to pay $32,500 in administrative penalties.

Oct 15, 2015

Notice of Violation from PUCT for Generator
On 10/14/15 a Notice of Violation (NOV) and Settlement Agreement was filed at the PUCT concerning Calpine Corporation’s noncompliance with PURA, ERCOT Protocols, and ERCOT Operating Guides regarding Primary Frequency Response.  The violations occurred between October 2011 and June 2012.  Calpine has deployed various changes to its systems to try to avoid such occurrences in the future and has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $67,500. 

Sept 30, 2015

Notice of Violation for Municipal Utility Generation Units
On 9/29/15 a Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement was filed at the PUCT concerning CPS Energy’s violation of PURA, ERCOT Protocols, and ERCOT Operating Guides relating to primary frequency response performance requirements.  CPS Energy’s OW Sommers Unit 2 and Rio Nogales are the generation resources alleged to have incurred the violations.  The reliability events occurred during the time period of October 2011 through June 2012.  CPS Energy has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $32,500.

Sept 14, 2015

NOV Filed Regarding Cogenerator and ERCOT Protocols
On 9/11/15 a Notice of Violation and Settlement was filed at the PUCT regarding the violation by IEF Channelview Cogeneration, LLC f/k/a GIM Channelview Cogeneration, LLC (Channelview) ERCOT Protocols and Operating Guides relating to primary frequency response.  Channelview has agreed to be pay an administrative penalty of $83,000.

NOV Filed Regarding Utility Violation of PURA and PUCT Rules
On 9/11/15 a Notice of Violation and Settlement was filed at the PUCT regarding the violation by  Southwestern Electric Power Company (SWEPCO) of PURA and PUCT rules concerning reliability and continuity of service.  SWEPCO has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $7,000.

Sept 4, 2015

NOV Filed Against CenterPoint Energy Houston Electric
On 9/3/15 a Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement was filed at the PUCT relating to CenterPoint Energy Houston Electric LLC’s violation concerning reliability and continuity of service.  Certain feeders did not meet service quality and reliability standards in 2014, and some did not meet them for two or more consecutive years.  CenterPoint Energy has agreed to make efforts to improve the performance and reliability of all its feeders, and to pay an administrative penalty of $8,000.

Aug 6, 2015

NOV Filed Concerning ERCOT Region Generation Resource
On 8/5/15 a Notice of Violation (NOV) and Settlement was filed concerning EIF Channelview Cogeneration, LLC’s (Channelview) violation of PURA, ERCOT Protocols, and ERCOT Operating Guides relating to primary frequency response (PFR). PFR is the initial reliability tool used by ERCOT during a frequency event.  All Generation Resources that have capacity available to either increase output or decrease output in Real-Time must provide PFR.  Channelview failed to provide adequate PFR during 14 of 27 measureable events during the Texas Reliability Entity (TRE) Study Period from October 2011 to June 2012.  Channelview has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $83,000.  In addition, Channelview states that it has implemented logic and control modifications as well as modified operational procedures in order to prevent future PFR noncompliance.

July 16, 2015

PUCT Requests Comments on ERCOT Budget Proposal
On 7/15/15 the PUCT filed a Request for Comments on the proposed ERCOT Budget for 2016-2017.  The ERCOT Budget Request was filed in Project No. 38533 on July 1, 2015.  The proposed budget includes a request by ERCOT to change the fee from the current $0.465 per MWh to $0.555 per MWh.  A public hearing will be held on Wednesday, August 19, 2015, at 10:00 a.m. in the Commissioners’ Hearing Room, located on the 7th floor of the William B. Travis Building, 1701 North Congress Avenue, Austin, Texas 78701.

July 15, 2015

NOV Filed Regarding a Generation Resource Participation in Primary Frequency Response
On 7/14/15 a Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement was filed at the PUCT concerning Brazos Electric Power Cooperative’s (Brazos’s) violation of PURA, ERCOT Protocols, and ERCOT Operating Guides relating to primary frequency response.  During a study period the Generation Resource JACKCNTY_CC1 failed to provide Primary Frequency Response (PFR) during 16 of 29 measurable events, including a6 failures while providing Responsive Reserve Service (RRS)  Brazos has modified its operations to prevent future PFR noncompliance, and has agreed to pay $120,000 in administrative penalties.

July 2, 2015

TNMP Files to Reduce Certain Discretionary Charges
Pursuant to a PUCT Order in Docket No. 38306, on 7/1/15 Texas-New Mexico Power Company (TNMP) filed its fourth annual compliance filing to reduce certain meter-related charges in its Tariff for Retail Deliver Services.  TNMP’s Advance Metering System (AMS) deployment plan extended over several years, and hence, a plan was also made to reflect the related costs.  The Order required TNMP to make 5 annual compliance filings by July 1 of each year following the Order “to reduce certain meter-related Discretionary Charges to reflect the then-current mix of AMS and non-AMS meters deployed by TNMP and the related expected progressive reduction in costs to provide meter-related discretionary services.”  The charges being reduced in this filing are Disconnect after Non-Payment (DNP) and Reconnect after DNP.  The details can be found in the filing.

June 24, 2015

NOV Filed at PUCT Concerning Transmission Service Provider
On 6/23/15 a Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement was filed relating to American Electric Power Texas North Company’s (AEP TNC’s) violation of PURA and ERCOT Protocols concerning types of work requiring ERCOT approval.  “On January 14, 2014, a breaker protection system at the North San Angelo substation was disabled by AEP TNC maintenance personnel to perform unscheduled maintenance to a forced, unplanned outage on a 69kV breaker…without notification to ERCOT or the AEP TNC Transmission Dispatch Center….  During the maintenance service, this breaker experienced mechanical issues which required remote breakers to trip in order to isolate the failed breaker resulting in multiple instances of short term loss of load.  The total load lost was approximately 23 MWs.”  AEP TNC did self-report the problem.  AEP TNC has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $21,000.

June 15, 2015

NOV Filed for Retail Provider at PUCT
On 6/12/15 a Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement was filed at the PUCT relating to Direct Energy, LP’s violation of PURA and PUCT Substantive Rules concerning disconnection of service.  The alleged violations concern disconnections during extreme weather emergencies on February 3,6,7, and 11 in 2014  Direct Energy has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $220,000. 

June 8, 2015

NOVs for Generation Resources
ON 6/5/15 two Notices of Violation (NOV) and Settlement Agreements were filed at the PUCT for Tenaska resources’ violations of PURA, ERCOT Protocols and ERCOT Operating Guides concerning Primary Frequency Response.  Tenaska Frontier Partners, Ltd. and Tenasks Gateway Partners, Ltd. agreed to pay $33,000 and $37,000 respectively.

May 28, 2015

NOV Filed for QSE at PUCT
On 5/22/15 a Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement was filed at the PUCT concerning Tony C. Marsh d/b/a MAMO Enterprises’ violation of PURA and PUCT Substantive Rules relating to oversight of wholesale market participants.  It has been alleged that Tony C. Marsh d/b/a MAMO Enterprises, a registered power marketer and qualified scheduling entity (QSE) during the time under consideration, i.e., from December 2012 and into 2013, listed problematic assets on MAMO’s balance sheet the resulted in a net worth substantially below the $500,000 requirement.  Mr. Marsh disputed this finding and stated that the issue was the result of changing accounting methods from a modified cash basis to an accrual basis of accounting.  Assets not previously recorded on financial statements were added as a result.  MAMO terminated its market participant agreement with ERCOT in June of 2013, and relinquished its registration as a power marketer in February 2015.  Mr. Marsh has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $10,000.  Neither Mr. Marsh nor MAMO will serve as a “principal” for an entity regulated by the commission for a period of 10 years.  However, Mr. Marsh may continue as a provider of risk management services.

May 6, 2015

NOV filed by PUCT staff against RV park
On 5/5/15 the PUCT staff filed a Notice of Violation (NOV) notification informing Live Oak Resort (Live Oak), Inc. that the Oversight and Enforcement Division staff is recommending an assessment of $20,000 in administrative penalties as a result of non-compliance of Live Oak with the order in Docket No. 41987 that it issue refunds to tenants and file proof of such.  The document states that as of April 8, 2015, Live Oak had refunded a total of $21,732.51 of the $85,435.96 that had been calculated as needing refund.  All refunds were due to be made by Feb. 23, 2015.  The refunds were the result of sub-metered usage over-collections and improper sub-metering surcharges to RV tenants.

March 31, 2015

NOV Filed for Air Liquide
On 3/30/15 an Agreed Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement was filed at the PUCT concerning Air Liquide Large Industries U.S. LP’s (ALLI) violation of PURA, PUCT Substantive Rules, ERCOT Protocols, and ERCOT Operating Guides relating to primary frequency response and governor testing criteria.  ALLI has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $50,000.

March 13, 2015

NOV for CPS Energy Concerning Non-Spinning Reserve
ON 3/12/15 a Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement was filed at the PUCT relating to CPS Energy’s violation of PURA, PUCT Substantive Rules, and ERCOT Protocols concerning Non-Spinning Reserve Service Deployment.  The violation occurred January 18, 2014.  CPS Energy has agreed to pay $22,500 in administrative penalties.

Feb 2, 2015

Texas Supreme Court Takes Up Chesapeake Gas Royalty Feud
The Texas Supreme Court on Friday agreed to hear a case over whether gas post-production costs may be deducted from royalties, in a lawsuit against Chesapeake Exploration LLC for allegedly underpaying royalties to a landowner’s estate.

Jan 28, 2015

CPS Mothballed Generation Unit Returning to Service
ERCOT issued a notice on 1/27/15 indicating it had received notice that the CPS Energy VH Braunig Power Station Unit 2 will be coming out of mothballed status and operational as of February 10, 2015.  This unit has a capacity of 230MW.  The VH Braunig Power Station is near San Antonio, in Elmendorf, Texas.  ERCOT stated that it had received the notice on January 6, 2015, but for technical reasons the notice was not issued to the market at that time.

Brasovan Group Files for Certification as Texas Aggregator
On 1/27/15 Brasovan Group, LLC filed with the PUCT an application to become an aggregator.  The application states that the aggregator wishes to serve all categories of customers:  residential, commercial, industrial, municipalities, and political subdivisions.  The company has a dba of Brasovan Energy Solutions, LLC.  The President, Mike Brasovan, according to his LinkedIn page, has been in the electric industry for over 21 years.  He has worked with Fowler Energy, GDF Suez, THG Energy Solutions, Priority Power, and is now listed with Brasovan Energy Solutions.  He continues to be listed as the contact person on the PUCT website for the aggregator THG Energy & Technology Solutions.

Jan 15, 2015

Judge Orders PG&E to Release 65,000 Email
The Wall Street Journal reported on 1/14/15 that Pacific Gas & Electric Co. has been ordered to release 65,000 emails that may contain evidence of backroom dealings between state regulators and the utility.  The emails deal with a pipeline explosion in 2010 that killed 8 people in San Bruno.  “State regulators in November fined PG&E $1 million and required its shareholders to cover as much as $400 million of a planned gas rate increase after emails showed a PG&E executive and public utilities commission officials discussing which judge to appoint to the rate case.”  PG&E has appealed the fine, arguing that it reported the emails and held people accountable to prevent something similar from happening again. 

Dec 23, 2014

Jade Energy REP Application Draws Intervention From Owners
As happened in the earlier Jade Energy REP amendment to change ownership, in the current refiled amendment, Drs. Subjash and Sarojini Bose state that they are the owners of Jade Energy and did not give permission for nor have knowledge of the filing of this amendment to change ownership. The previous amendment attempt had been dismissed, noting this claim of 100% ownership by Drs. Bose, and also that that amendment filing was deficient.  In this docket, the Drs. Bose have formally requested to intervene and have attached a Temporary Restraining Order restraining Rafael S. Patag, Jr. and Rico A De Los Reyes from taking any action on behalf of Jade Energy, LLC, Bose Power & Electric, and Bose Power & Electric Clearing House

Entergy’s River Bend Nuclear Plant Reports Event
Entergy filed a report with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and PUCT on 12/22/14 indicating that a scram event had occurred at River Bend Station Unit 1 on October 17, 2014.  The “…reactor scram occurred  in response to a high neutron flux signal from the average power range monitors….”  The plant was operating at full power at the time.  The cause for the malfunction has not yet been determined, but was soon corrected and the plant restored to service.

Dec 22, 2014

Texas Reliability Entity Members Elect New Chair and Vice Chair
The Texas Reliability Entity, Inc. (Texas RE) Member Representatives Committee (MRC) elected the Chair and Vice Chair of the MRC for 2015.  Scott Helyer of Tenaska was re-elected to serve as Chair for the 2015 term, and Brenda Hampton of Luminant Generation and Luminant Energy was elected to serve as Vice Chair for the 2015 term.  As Chair and Vice Chair of the MRC, they will also serve as Affiliated Directors on the Texas RE Board of Directors.

Dec 18, 2014

10K Energy to Relinquish Texas REP Certificate
On 12/17/14 10K Energy LLC filed an application for a REP amendment with the PUCT.  Only a cover letter was filed publicly, and the entire REP amendment form was filed confidentially.  However, the PUCT labeled the amendment as one to relinquish the certificate.  The letterhead on which the letter was written was for Mission Power.

True Electric to Relinquish Texas REP Certificate
On 12/17/14 True Electric LLC filed an application for a REP amendment with the PUCT.  Only a cover letter was filed publicly, and the entire REP amendment form was filed confidentially.  However, the PUCT labeled the amendment as one to relinquish the certificate. 

Jade Energy Files Again to Change Ownership/Control
On 12/17/14 Jade Energy LLC filed an application with the PUCT for a REP amendment to reflect a change in organizational structure, ownership and control, technical/managerial qualifications, and financial qualifications.  This occurs after the recent dismissal of a similar amendment request.  The staff had stated that the recent amendment request may have been filed without the consent of the owners, and was also technically and financially deficient.  Like the previous amendment, Preston Ochsner is listed as the CEO.  No explanation appears to have accompanied the new filing concerning whether the parties who filed a letter in the recent application docket and claimed 100% ownership, had given consent.

Acacia Energy Changes Name to Brooklet Energy Distribution
On 12/17/14 Acacia Energy LLC filed an application with the PUCT to change its name to Brooklet Energy Distribution LLC.  It wishes to retain the Acacia name as a dba.

Dec 17, 2014

PUCT Denies Complaint and Appeal of Calpine and NRG vs ERCOT Endorsement of HIP
The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) filed an Order on 12/16/14 denying the complaint and appeal of Calpine and NRG against ERCOT and the ERCOT Board resolution endorsing the need for the Houston Import Project (HIP) and deeming a component of the project critical to reliability.  The Order states that “[t]he Commission finds that Calpine and NRG failed to show that ERCOT violated any law that the Commission has jurisdiction to administer, any order or rule of the Commission, or any protocol or procedure adopted by ERCOT.”

Source Power & Gas Amending Texas REP Certificate to Reflect Change in Ownership
On 12/16/14 Source Power & Gas, LLC filed an application with the PUCT to amend its Retail Electric Provider (REP) certificate to reflect a change in ownership and control.  The application states that “Source Power & Gas LLC’s parent company, SPG Energy Group LLC, is selling 100% of its ownership interest in Source to ERM Business Energy LLC, a Texas limited liability company.  After the sale, ERM Business Energy LLC will own and hold all of the outstanding membership interests and other rights for equity capital in SPG Energy.  As a result, Source seeks to amend its REP Certification to reflect the change in ownership. No other corp. structural changes will take place.”

Dec 16, 2014

Notice of Violation and Settlement for MP2 Energy in Texas
On 12/15/14 the PUCT staff filed an Agreed Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement Relating to MP2 Energy, LLC’s violation of PURA, PUCT Substantive Rules, and ERCOT Protocols. The violations relate to Emergency Response Service (ERS) and QSEs representing ERS.  The Texas Reliability Entity (TRE) found that MP2 failed to achieve the required event performance factor and 10 minute deployment performance on Jan 6, 2014.  MP2 agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $45,000.

Palo Duro Wind Interconnection Services Registers as Texas PGC
On 12/15/14 Palo Duro Wind Interconnection Services, LLC filed an application to register with the PUCT as a Power Generation Company (PGC).  A facility in the fleet of Next Era Energy Resources, the application states that “Palo Duro Wind Interconnection Services is a party to the interconnection agreement for the Palo Duro Wind Energy, LLC facility.  Palo Duro Wind Interconnection Services was formed for the purpose of ensuring Palo Duro Wind Energy, LLC and, in the future, Palo Duro Wind Energy II, LLC could each deliver their output to the point of interconnection with Oklahoma Gas & Electric Company over shared interconnection facilities owned by Palo Duro Wind Interconnection Services.”

Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company Registers as Texas PGC
On 12/15/14 The Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company filed an application to register with the PUCT as a Power Generation Company (PGC).  The application states that “[t]he Beaumont Chemical Facility (the “Facility”), owned by The Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, is a combined cycle power qualifying facility with cogeneration of process steam.  The Facility will provide steam to its thermal host, and the remaining output of the Facility’s electric generating capacity will be sold in the wholesale market.”  The Facility is connected to Entergy and has a total capacity of 33 MW.

Dec 11, 2014

Nations Power Relinquishing Texas REP Certificate
On 12/10/14 Nations Power, LLC filed an application with the PUCT to relinquish its REP certificate.  The application states that the company has not had customers since 2011 and has been unable to secure financing to continue operations.

PUCT Dismisses Jade Energy Request to Change in Ownership/Control
On 12/10/14 the PUCT issues an Order dismissing the application by Jade Energy to amend its REP certificate to reflect a change in ownership/control as well as a change in technical/managerial qualifications and financial qualifications.  The staff stated that the application appeared to have been filed without the necessary authorizations, and remained deficient technically and financially.  The application had shown Preston Ochsner as the new CEO.

Dec 8, 2014

Newman Solar Registers as PGC
On 12/4/14 Newman Solar, LLC filed with the PUCT to register as a Power Generation Company (PGC).  The facility is owned by PSEG and has 10.53 MW of power that it is selling to El Paso Electric.

Route 66 Wind Power Registers as PGC and REC Generator
On 12/5/14 Route 66 Wind Power, LLC registered with the PUCT as a Power Generation Company (PGC) and as Renewable Energy Credit (REC) Generator.  The facility is owned by First Wind Texas Holding, LLC, and is affiliated with South Plains Wind Energy, LLC.  The facility’s 150 MW of capacity will be connected to Sharyland Utilities.  It is expected to begin operation in October 2015.

Briscoe Wind Farm Files to Register as REC Generator
On 12/4/14 Briscoe Wind Farm, LLC filed with the PUCT an application to register as a Renewable Energy Credit (REC) Generator.  The application, which has been assigned Docket No. 43892, is not available for download.

Dec 4, 2014

Potentia Energy Purchased by Verde Energy USA Texas
On 12/3/14 Potentia Energy, LLC filed with the PUCT an amendment request for a change in ownership/control, and change in technical/managerial qualifications, and a new assumed name.  The buyer is indicated as Verde Energy USA Texas, LLC.  The dba requested is “Verde Energy USA Texas”.  Contact persons on the application include several from Norwalk, Connecticut.  Some detail of their background is included in the application.

Green Pastures Wind II Files for PGC and REC Certification
On 12/3/14 Green Pastures Wind II, LLC filed with the PUCT to register as a Power Generation Company (PGC) and for Renewable Energy Credit (REC) Certification.  The facility has 150 MW of metered generation eligible for REC certification.

Briscoe Wind Farm Files for PGC Registration
On 12/13/14 Briscoe Wind Farm, LLC filed with the PUCT for Power Generation Company (PGC) registration.  The facility is connected to Sharyland Utilities and has 149.85 MW of capacity.

Dec 2, 2014

Neuman Solar Project Registers as REC Generator
On 12/1/14 the Neuman Solar Project filed to register with the PUCT as a Renewable Energy Credit (REC) Generator.  Located in El Paso, the metered generation eligible for RECs is 10.53 MW. 

Nov 26, 2014

Pro Power Providers Undergo Change in Ownership/Control
On 11/15/14 Pro Power Providers, LLC filed an application with the PUCT to amend its REP certification.  The request is for a Change in Ownership/Control.  The application states that there was a change in upstream ownership, and no other changes.  The details were filed confidentially.

Nov 19, 2014

Front Line Power Solutions Files to Become Aggregator
ON 11/18/14 Front Line Power Solutions, LLC filed an application with the PUCT to register as an Aggregator.  With business addresses in Houston, Texas and Rhode Island, the company states that it will aggregate commercial accounts.

Nov 18, 2014

Public Forum to be Held on the PowerToChoose.org Website
On 11/17/14 the staff of Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) filed a public notice stating that they will hold a forum regarding the PowerToChoose.org website, on Friday, December 19, 2014.  The intent of the from us to receive comments from interested parties about the current PowerToChoose.org website, the posting of offers by retail electric providers on the PowerToChoose.org Admin site, as well as any suggestions to enhance the website.  Comments will be accepted through February 13, 2015 in Project No. 43787 PUCT PowerToChoose.org Website.

Nov 14, 2014

NA Power Files to Amend Texas REP Certification
On 11/12/14 NA Power filed an application with the PUCT to amend their Retail Electric Provider (REP) certification.  The amendment includes a change in name, change in financial qualifications, and change in office address and authorized person.  Although not completely clear on the application, it appears that the dba name is to be the official name going forward, i.e., North American Power and Gas, LLC.  However, the application does not list any dbas, so it is not clear if the company intends to cease using the name NA Power.

TX Hereford Wind Registers as a Texas REC Generator
On 11/12/14 TX Hereford Wind, LLC filed an application with the PUCT to register as a Renewable Energy Credit (REC) Generator.  The facility has 200MW of metered generation eligible for RECs., and are expected to begin operation on December 1, 2014.

Nov 11, 2014

LoneStar Wind Registers as Texas PGC
On 11/10/14, LoneStar Wind Power Company filed an application with the PUCT to register as a Power Generation Company (PGC).  The application lists 8MW of wind turbines to be installed by the end of 2016, and connect to STEC.  While NorthStar Wind Power Company is listed as an affiliate, ownership and contact information has been redacted.

NorthStar Wind Registers as Texas PGC
On 11/10/14, NorthStar Wind Power Company filed an application with the PUCT to register as a Power Generation Company (PGC).  The application lists 10MW of wind turbines to be installed by the end of 2016, and connect to STEC.  While LoneStar Wind Power Company is listed as an affiliate, ownership and contact information has been redacted.

Nov 10, 2014

Entergy Texas NOV and Settlement Agreement Filed
On 11/7/14 a Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement was filed relating to Entergy Texas, Inc.’s (ETI’s) violations of PURA and PUCT Substantive Rules concerning reliability and continuity of service.  ETI has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $21,000, as well as to make efforts to improve the performance and reliability of all its feeders.

Nov 6, 2014

Renewable Power Direct Files Application for Texas REP Certification
On 11/5/14 Renewable Power Direct, LLC (RPD) filed an application with the PUCT to be certified as a Retail Electric Provider (REP).  The company is seeking to be an Option 2 REP, which is one that serves only specifically-named large customers.  The company is located in Washington, DC.  Included in the filing is an affidavit from Tenaska Power Services Co. (TPS) stating that TPS has a contract with RPD under which TPS has committed to appoint RPD as a REP to assist TPS in providing REP services to certain loads.

Acacia Energy Files Application to Change Name to New Era Energy Services
On 11/5/14 Acacia Energy LLC filed an application with the PUCT to change its name to New Era Energy Services LLC and add Acacia Energy as a dba. 

Optim Energy Twin Oaks Files Application to Relinquish Texas PGC Registration
On 11/5/14 Optim Energy Twin Oaks, LP (Optim Energy) filed with the PUCT an application to relinquish its PGC registration.   It states on the application that Optim Energy transferred the generation assets comprising the Twin Oaks Power Station to Major Oaks Power, LLC on October 14, 2014. The coal plants have a total capacity of 306.5 MW.

Nov 5, 2014

Power Resources NOV and Settlement Agreement Filed at PUCT
On 11/4/14 a Notice of Violation (NOV) and Settlement Agreement was filed at the PUCT concerning the violation by Power Resources, Ltd. of ERCOT Protocols related to automatic voltage regulators and under-frequency relay settings.  Power Resources has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $37,000.

Complaint Against Frontier RV Park for Overcharging Filed at PUCT
On 11/4/14 a Complaint was filed by Brenda Sapp against Frontier RV Park and its owner.  It is alleged that the RV Park overcharged Ms. Sapp in violation of the PUCT rules. 

Rattlesnake Wind I Files for Texas PGC Registration
On 11/4/14 Rattlesnake Wind I LLC filed to register with the PUCT as a Power Generation Company (PGC).  The facilities are located in Glasscock County and have a total capacity of 207.245 MW.  Several other wind facilities are listed as affiliates in the filing.  The contact person has an address with Invenergy LLC.

River Oaks Energy Files to Register as Texas Aggregator
On 11/4/14 River Oaks Energy, Inc. filed an application with the PUCT to register as an aggregator.  Located in Dallas, Texas, River Oaks Energy states that they intend to aggregate commercial, industrial, and municipal customers.  The application states that it was founded in 2004, and brokers electricity across deregulated states. 

Oct 30, 2014

EIF Channelview Cogeneration Files Change in Ownership/Control
On 10/29/14 EIF Channelview Cogeneration LLC filed an application with the PUCT to change its Power Generation Company Registration.  The filing indicates it is a change in ownership/control, and states that “EIF Channelview Acquisition Partners L.P.’s status has changed to dissolution. No other changes at this time.”

Oct 28, 2014

Infuse Energy Filed to Amend Texas REP Certificate
On 10/27/14 Infuse Energy LLC filed an application with the PUCT to amend its REP Certification.  In the explanatory field of the application it has stated “protection of customer deposits”.  It also marked “Yes” for Part C-2, indicating that they intend to accept customer deposits. 

Oct 27, 2014

Palo Duro Wind Energy Applies for REC Certification
On 10/25/14 Palo Duro Wind Energy, LLC filed an application with the PUCT to be certified as a Renewable Energy Credit (REC) Generator.  The facility has 249.9MW of metered generation eligible for RECs.

Oct 22, 2014

Devonshire Energy Relinquishing PUCT REP Certificate
On 10/21/14 Devonshire Energy LLC filed an application with the PUCT to relinquish its Retail Electric Provider (REP) Certificate.  The application states that it has never signed up an any customers.

Palo Duro Wind Energy Files for PUCT PGC Registration
On 10/21/14 Palo Duro Wind Energy, LLC filed with  the PUCT to register as a Power Generation Company.  The company is owned by ESI Energy, LLC and NextEra Energy Resources, LLC.  The facility is comprised of 147 GE wind turbines for a total of 263.1 MW of energy.

Oct 21, 2014

AEP Energy dba Bluestar Energy Solutions Relinquishing REP Certificate
On 10/20/14 AEP Energy, Inc., dba Bluestar Energy Solutions filed an amendment with the PUCT to relinquish its Retail Electric Provider (REP) Certificate.  The application states that it has never served any customers in Texas.

Oct 17, 2014

EDF Trading NOV and Settlement Filed at PUCT
On 10/16/14 a Notice of Violation (NOV) and Settlement Agreement was filed relating to EDF Trading North America’s violation of PURA and ERCOT Protocols.  The violation concerns the current operating plan (COP) and non-spinning reserve service (NSRS) energy deployment criteria on May 11, 2013.  EDF Trading as agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $57,000.

Oct 16, 2014

Oncor Notice of Violation and Settlement Filed
On 10/15/14 a Notice of Violation (NOV) and Settlement for Oncor Electric Delivery was filed at the PUCT.  The NOV concerns reliability and continuity of service in 2013 when certain feeders did not meet standards.  Oncor has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $174,000, and make efforts to improve reliability of the feeders. 

Oct 10, 2014

Texas Energy Consultants Register as Aggregator
On 10/9/14 Texas Energy Consultants, a dba for Robert Pena, Jr., filed an application to register as a aggregator with the PUCT. While the application states that it is a Class II.A Aggregator (a person that aggregates municipalities, political subdivisions, or both), it also states elsewhere on the application that it intends to aggregate Commercial customers as well as municipalities and political subdivisions.

Oct 9, 2014

Jade Energy Files for REP Amendment
On 10/8/14 Jade Energy, LLC filed a REP Amendment with the PUCT.  The amendment categories that are marked on the application include Change in Ownership/Control, Corporate Restructuring, Change in Technical/Managerial Qualification, and Change in Financial Qualifications.  For the explanation of the Amendment, they refer to a letter and exhibits, most of which were filed confidentially.  However, with the public filing was a bio for Preston Ochsner, who is now listed as the CEO. 

Oct 8, 2014

Stephens Ranch Wind Energy Applies for REC Generator Certification
On 10/7/14 Stephens Ranch Wind Energy, LLC filed a request with the PUCT to be certified as a Renewable Energy Credit (REC) Generator.  The nameplate rating of the facility is 211.22 MW.  The mailing address is with the Starwood Energy Group Global, LLC in Greenwich, Connecticut.

Oct 6, 2014

For (Energy) History Buffs
The Department of Energy published an article – Unlocking Mysteries of J. Robert Oppenheimer Transcript – about the events in Dec. 1953, when “the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission suspended the security clearance of J. Robert Oppenheimer, perhaps the most well-known American scientist of the twentieth century. After a four-week, closed-door hearing in April and May 1954, his clearance was formally revoked.” The article, written by the department’s historian, is a deeper dive into events of historical relevance to the DOE (to learn more, visit the Energy Department Historian’s website).

Oct 3, 2014

Energy Curtailment Specialists Settlement Agreement and NOV
On 10/2/14 a Settlement Agreement and Notice of Violation (NOV) was filed concerning Energy Curtailment Specialists’ (ECS’s) violation of rules  relating to performance criteria for qualified scheduling entities representing emergency response resources.  ECS has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $15,000.

Oct 1, 2014

JP Morgan Ventures Energy Corporation Files Amendment to REP Certification
On 9/30/14 JP Morgan Ventures Energy Corporation filed with the PUCT an amendment to its REP Certification.  The stated reason is to update contact information and add a customer (it is an Option 2 REP whose service offerings are limited to specifically identified customers each of whom contracts for 1 MW or more of capacity).  The customer is identified as Southern Methodist University.

Sept 30, 2014

Ector County Energy Center Registers as new PGC
On 9/29/14 Ector County Energy Center LLC filed an application with the PUCT to register as a new Power Generation Company (PGC).  The application states that it will generate electricity from gas turbine generators.  The parent company is listed as Ector County Energy Center Holdings LLC, and 7 affiliates are listed.  Operating in the Oncor area, the facility has a capacity of 328 MW.

Sept 29, 2014

Reach Energy Relinquishes REP Certificate
On 9/26/14 Reach Energy, LLC filed a request with the PUCT to relinquish its REP certificate.  Reach Energy has no customers.  ERCOT sent the customers to the POLR in a mass transition earlier this year after claiming that Reach was late in payments to ERCOT 4 times within a year.  Reach disputes that it has made 4 late payments.

EIF Channelview Cogeneration Amends PGC Registration
On 9/26/15 EIF Channelview Cogeneration, LLC filed with the PUCT an amendment to its Power Generation Company (PGC) registration.  The stated change is that EIF Channelview Holdings II, LLC’s membership interest has changed from approximately 10% to 100% and EIF Channelview Acquisition Partners L.P.’s membership interest has changed from approximately 90% to 0%.

Sept 25, 2014

Wolf Hollow I Facility, the Handley Facility, and Mountain Creek Facility File Change in Ownership
On 9/25/14 Wolf Hollow I Power, LLC, Handley Power, LLC, and Mountain Creek Power, LLC filed amendments to their PGC registration to reflect a change in ownership.  The filings state that:  the Wolf Hollow I LP facility is now owned by Wolf Hollow I Power, LLC; the Handley Facility is now owned by Handley Power, LLC; and the Mountain Creek Facility is now owned by Mountain Creek Power, LLC.  Review of the higher level ownership on the applications shows  that the ultimate owner is Exelon Generation Company, LLC.

Application for REP Certification of Agera Energy, Proposed Buyer of Glacial Energy, is Dismissed
On 9/25/14, the docket in which Agera Energy LLC was requesting to be certified as a Retail Electric Provider so that it might continue the business of Glacial Energy that Agera was purchasing through the bankruptcy proceeding, was dismissed following a request by Agera to withdraw.

Sept 23, 2014

Agreed Settlement and Notice of Violation for SPS Filed
On 9/22/14 an Agreed Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement was filed concerning Southwester Public Service’s (SPS’) reliability and continuity of service.  Certain feeders where found to have violated service quality and reliability standards for 3 or more consecutive years.  SPS has agreed to pay $32,000 in administrative penalties.

TX Hereford Wind Registers as PGC
On 9/22/14 TX Hereford Wind, LLC filed an application with the PUCT to register as a Power Generation Company (PGC).  The ownership is with entities within Electricite de France (EDF).  The wind unit is in Deaf Smith County, with a total capacity of 200 MW.

Sept 22, 2014

AEP North and AEP Central Agree to PUCT’s Administrative Penalties
On 9/19/14 two AEP companies, AEP North and AEP Central, saw settlement agreements filed concerning Notices of Violation concerning reliability and continuity of service.  Certain feeders violated service quality standards for three or more consecutive years.  AEP North agreed to pay a $48,000 administrative penalty and AEP Central agreed to pay a $72,000 administrative penalty.

SWEPCO Notice of Violation and Settlement by PUCT Results in Penalties
On 9/19/14 a settlement and Notice of Violation was filed concerning reliability violations of certain SWEPCO feeders.  SWEPCO has agreed to pay $8,000 in administrative penalties.

ExTex LaPorte Amend Texas PGC Registration
On 9/19/14 ExTex LaPorte Limited Partnership filed an amendment to its Power Generation Company (PGC) registration.  The amendment states that as a result of a reorganization and merger, each of the 4 power plants owned by ExTex LaPorte are now owned by separate limited liability companies.  It has requested that the LaPorte facility, now owned by LaPorte Power, LLC, retain the current PGC registration number.  It has further requested that new registration numbers be given to Handley Power. LLC, Mountain Creek Power, LLC, and Wolf Hollow I Power, LLC.

TexasCER-Colorado Bend Energy Partners LP Changes Its Name
On 9/19/14 CER-Colorado Bend Energy Partners LP filed an amendment to its Power Generation Company (PGC) registration stating that it has changed its name to Colorado Bend I Power, LLC.

Sept 18, 2014

GDF Suez Notice of Violation Agreement Filed at PUCT
On 9/17/14, PUCT staff filed a Notice of Violation (NOV) and Settlement Agreement, related to GDF Suez Energy Marketing NA Inc’s violation of the Public Utility Regulatory Act (PURA), PUCT Substantive Rules, and ERCOT Protocols. The violations involve Current Operating Plans (COP) and Energy Offer Curve (EOC) for Reliability Unit Commitment (RUC) resources. GDF Suez has agreed to pay $28,000 in administrative penalties.  Following receipt of a RUC Commitment instruction from ERCOT, Qualified Scheduling Entities (QSEs) are required to submit revised COPs reflecting the change no later than 60 minutes after the event that caused the change.  On 2/2/14, GDF Suez did not submit the changed plans within the required timeframe for three units, but submitted them in approximately 3 hours.  In addition, on 2/2/214, GDF Suez failed to update its Real Time EOCs to show all energy above the units’ Low Sustainable Limits (LSLs) priced at the System Wide Offer Cap during the hours of the RUC period, as required by ERCOT Protocols.  This failure caused the three units at issue to operate at or near their High Sustainable Limits (HSLs) during the RUC period, when they should have been operated at or near their LSLs.  GDF Suez has implemented measure to insure that this does not happen again.

Summer Energy Changing Risk Management Qualifying Staff
On 9/17/14 Summer Energy, LLC filed a request for a Retail Electric Provider (REP) amendment changing its Technical/Managerial Qualifications for Risk Management to reflect the fact that Mr. Rod Danielson is leaving Summer Energy.  Mr. Danielson was the person identified as the Risk Manager on Summer’s original REP application, and it will now be Mr. Travis Andrews.

Sept 17, 2014

E-Now Notice of Violation Agreement Filed
On 9/16/14 an application for the approval of a settlement agreement was filed at the PUCT relating to E-Now, LP’s violations of PURA and the PUCT Substantive Rules related to certification of Retail Electric Providers (REPs) and Customer Protection Rules.  E-Now has agreed to pay $42,500 in administrative penalties.  In an unrelated matter, E-Now relinquished its REP certificate on July 9, 2014.  This relinquishment did not involve any customer transfers to the Provider of Last Resort.  The violations involved distinct time periods when the escrow account established to cover deposits and prepaid amounts over $50 lacked sufficient funds to do so.  In addition, E-Now failed to advise the Commission of the results of its investigation of informal complaints in writing within 21 days after the complaints were forwarded to the Commission.

Sept 10, 2014

Axon Power & Gas Files for REP Certification
On 9/9/14 Axon Power & Gas, LLC filed an application with the PUCT for certification as a Retail Electric Provider (REP).  The REP is based in Sugarland, Texas.

Sept 5, 2014

Mesquite Creek Wind LLC Files for Texas REC Generator Certification
On 9/4/14 Mesquite Creek Wind LLC filed an application with the PUCT to be certified as a Renewable Energy Credit (REC) Generator.  Owned by Summit Wind Energy, Inc. Mesquite Creek Wind has 211.22 MW of metered generation eligible for RECs. 

Volt Electricity Provider, LP Files for Texas REP Certification
On 9/4/14 Volt Electricity Provider, LP filed an application with the PUCT to be certified as a Retail Electric Provider (REP). Volt is based in Houston.  Although two persons are listed as partners in the company, all of the attachments to the application form have been filed confidentially.

Sept 2, 2014

Padre Energy and Associates Files Registration as an Aggregator
On 8/29/14 Padre Energy and Associates LLC filed a request with the PUCT to register as an aggregator.  The company’s prior experience is stated to be energy broker services in New York.  The company has indicated that it intends to aggregate residential, commercial, and industrial customers, and states that it anticipates receiving approximately $100,000 from commercial sources.  The managing member of this LLC is Rakesh Patel of Edinburg, Texas.

Aug 29, 2014

TXI Power Company Relinquishing REP Certificate
On 8/28/14 TXI Power Company filed an amendment to its Retail Electric Provider Certification to relinquish its certificate.  The holder of an Option II certificate, with which it can serve named customers with large loads, TXI states that it has not served load with this certificate.

FPL Affiliates File Changes to PGC Registrations
On 8/28/14 numerous FPL affiliate Power Generation Companies (PGCs) filed with the PUCT updates to their PGC Registrations.  The following PGCs filed to withdraw their registrations:  Windpower Partners 1994, LP; and Delaware Mountain Wind Farm, LLC.  Filings were made to update their list of affiliates and/or contact information (some also marked that they were new PGC’s, but changing or updating contact information and affiliates…it is not clear why a new PGC would have a registration number already and need to update information) for:  FPLE Forney, LLC; Lamar Power Partners, LLC; FPL Energy Callahan Wind, LP; Blue Summit Wind LLC; Capricorn Wind Ridge II, LLC; Capricorn Wind Ridge, LLC; FPL Energy Horse Hollow Wind II, LLC; FPL Energy Horse Hollow Wind, LLC; Wolf Ridge Wind, LLC; Post Wind Farm LP; FPL Energy Upton Wind IV, LLC; West Texas Wind Energy Partners, LP; FPL Energy Upton Wind II, LLC;  FPL Energy Upton Wind III, LLC; High Majestic Wind II, LLC; High Majestic Wind Energy Center, LLC; Indian Mesa Wind Farm, LLC; FPL Energy Pecos Wind I, LLC; and FPL Energy Upton Wind I, LLC.

Aug 28, 2014

Iron Energy Updates Contact Information
On 8/27/15 Iron Energy LLC filed an amendment with the PUCT to update contact information.  We note that P.U.C. Subst. R. 25.107(i)(1) requires submission of changes in contact information within 5 working days of the change.  Such changes, however, are no longer required to be done by filing an amendment; instead, they may be entered online through the PUCT portal.

TriEagle Energy DBA Power House Energy Agrees to Fine Related to Renewable Energy Credits
On 8/27/14 a Notice of Violation (NOV) and settlement agreement was filed at the PUCT regarding violation by TriEagle Energy LP DBA Power House Energy’s (TriEagle) purchase and retirement of Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) in 2013.  TriEagle has agreed to pay $4,450 as well as to purchase and retire the 89 RECs it is responsible for during 2013. 

Direct Energy Business Files Update of Officers and Directors
On 8/27/14 Direct Energy Business, LLC filed an amendment to its REP Certification with the PUCT in which it made changes to its Officers and Directors.  The persons listed under the required list of “Directors, Officers, or Principals”are:  John Schultz, President; Bray Dohrwardt, Secretary; Randy Kruger, Treasurer; and Craig Galligan, Assistant Secretary.  It is interesting to note that the contact person, Edward “Ned” Ross III, is listed elsewhere with the title “Director, Gov’t & Reg. Affairs”, but in spite of the title “Director”, is not considered a Director for purposes of this filing. 

Aug 27, 2014

EnerNOC Withdraws Aggregator Registration
On 8/26/14 EnerNOC, Inc. filed a notice with the PUCT that it is withdrawing its aggregator registration.  The company has concluded that it is not required to be registered as an aggregator because it “…does not join two or more customers together into a purchasing unit to negotiate the purchase of electricity from retail electric providers, and therefore does not meet the definition of aggregator….”

Grandview Windfarm Files to be REC Generator
On 8/26/14, Grandview Windfarm, LLC filed to register with the PUCT as a Renewable Energy Credit (REC) Generator. Some information was filed confidentially in Docket No. 42781, and the notice itself is not available for viewing.

Revised List of Providers of Last Resort Filed
On 8/26/14 the PUCT filed a revised list of Providers of Last Resort (POLRs).  The list was revised to reflect that Texas Power, LP has had an application approved to relinquish its REP certificate.

Aug 26, 2014

ERCOT TDUs Request Draws on Reach Energy Letter of Credit
On 8/25/14 five Transmission/Distribution Utilities (TDUs) in ERCOT filed a joint petition to distribute proceeds from the Letter of Credit provided by Reach Energy, LLC.  The TDUs include CenterPoint, TNMP, AEP Central, AEP North, and Oncor.  They state that Reach ceased paying them in early May 2014, and that they are owed more than $450,000, net of deposits and inclusive of interest and penalties.  The petition details each invoice that is unpaid and how much is owed to each TDU.

Aug 22, 2014

Proton Energy’s REP Certificate Revoked
On 8/21/14 the PUCT issued a “Consent Order” in the Notice of Violation and Revocation docket for Proton Energy.  The Order results from a settlement agreement entered into several months ago and lays out the various violations that had occurred, the events that were required for Proton to retain its REP certification, and the fact that the REP Certificate for Proton is revoked.

Aug 20, 2014

CASA Aggregator Application Dismissed
Customer Acquisition Specialists of America, Inc, aka CASA, applied on 7/17/14 to register with the PUCT as an aggregator.  Although the application was 49 pages long, including a balance sheet, on 8/14/14 the PUCT staff notified the company of the deficiencies in their application.  On 8/18/14, after the time for curing the deficiency had elapsed with no response from the company, the application was dismissed.

Aug 18, 2014

Z Champion and Associates Files for Aggregator Registration
On 8/15/14 Z Champion and Associates, DBA Zingo Energy Consulting, filed an application with the PUCT to register as an aggregator.  The application marked all categories for who they intend to aggregate, but wrote that they aggregate residential and commercial accounts.  The company is operating out of Spring, Texas.

Green Pastures Wind I Files for PGC and REC Registration
ON 8/15/14 Green Pastures Wind I filed applications with the PUCT to register as a Power Generation Company (PGC) and as a Renewable Energy Credit Generator (REC Generator).  The 150 MW facilities are located in Baylor and Knox Counties.  They are self-certified as an Exempt Wholesale Generator (EWG).  Generation is expected to commence in February of 2015.

Aug 14, 2014

HFE-Operating LLC Files for Aggregator Registration
On 8/14/14 HFE-Operating LLC filed an application with the PUCT to register as an aggregator.  The application shows intent to aggregate private customers, municipalities, and political subdivisions.  Operating out of Houston, the aggregator was formed from the merger of Broken Arrow Interests, LTD and HFE-Operating, LLC (Prior name Havana Lighting & Power, LLC).  The application shows surprising detail, including a list of “Affiliate Agency Relationships” that include 40 entities, most of which are Retail Electric Providers, and the maximum margin the company receives from each entity.

Major Oak Power, LLC Files for Power Generation Company Registration
On 8/14/14 Major Oak Power, LLC filed an application with the PUCT to register as a Power Generation Company (PGC).  The parent companies listed are members of the Blackstone Group, headquartered in New York.  Affiliated Parents are listed as Frontera Generation Limited Partnership, Bastrop Energy Partners LP, and Paris Generation LP.  The PGC operates the Twin Oaks Power Station, a 306.5 MW coal plant in Bremond, Texas.

Aug 13, 2014

Sherbino I Wind Farm Files Registration as PGC
On 8/12/14 Sherbino I Wind Farm LLC filed with the PUCT to register as a Power Generation Company.  Headquartered in Houston, Sherbino I Wind Farm LLC is 50% a wholly owned subsidiary of BP Alternative Energy North America, and 50% a wholly owned subsidiary of NRG Energy, Inc.  The wind farm is the owner and operator of a 150 MW wind turbine generation facility in Pecos County, interconnected with TNMP.

Aug 12, 2014

Walzem Solar Files for Renewable Energy Credit Certification
On 8/11/14 Walzem Solar filed an application with the PUCT for certification as a Renewable Energy Credit Generator.  Owned by OCI Alamo 3 LLC and located in San Antonio, it has 5.5 MW of metered generation eligible for Renewable Energy Credits (RECs). 

Aug 11, 2014

CenterPoint Notice of Violation Final Order Issued
CenterPoint Energy Houston agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $11,000 for violation of PURA and PUCT Substantive Rules related to reliability and continuity of service.  The violations dealt with feeders that did not meet reliability standards.  The Final Order in Docket No. 42634 was filed 8/8/14.

Texas-New Mexico Power Notice of Violation Final Order Issued
Texas-New Mexico Power agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $6,000  for violation of PURA and PUCT Substantive Rules related to reliability and continuity of service.  The violations dealt with feeders that did not meet reliability standards.  The Final Order in Docket No. 42637 was filed 8/8/14.

Aug 7, 2014

Reliant Adds New DBAs
On 8/6/14 Reliant Energy Retail Services, LLC filed for an REP amendment with the PUCT to add two new DBAs:  “NRG Home” and “NRG Business”.  It is removing the DBAs “Reliant Energy Residential Services” and “Reliant Energy Solutions”.

Energy Utility Group, LLC to Become Aggregator
On 8/6/14 Energy Utility Group, LLC filed an application with the PUCT to become an Aggregator.  The company is located in Round Rock, Texas.  The application indicates that it will serve commercial customers using 50kW and above, including but not limited to restaurants, franchises, hospitals, property management firms, and hotels.  In addition, it will serve industrial customers using 50kW and above, including but not limited to chemical plants, manufacturing, cold storage & refrigeration, and grocery stores.

Aug 6, 2014

Agera Energy to Acquire Glacial Energy Assets
Agera Energy LLC filed an application on 8/5/14 with the PUCT for Retail Electric Provider Certification.  The application explains that after PUCT certification, it will acquire out of the Bankruptcy Court various assets of Glacial Energy Holdings, including the REP Glacial Energy Texas.  The application indicates that the company will operate out of its New York office, although it also lists a Texas office in Houston. It lists staff from Glacial Energy to meet its technical/managerial qualifications.

El Paso Electric Settlement Agreement Filed for Notice of Violation Related to Reliability
On 8/5/14 a Settlement Agreement was filed at the PUCT concerning violations of El Paso Electric Company (EPEC) related to reliability and continuity of service for reporting year 2013.  EPEC has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $9,000.  It further agrees to improve the reliability and performance of its feeders.

July 28, 2014

Grandview Wind Farm Changes Ownership
On 7/25/14 Grandview Wind Farm LLC filed an amendment to their Power Generator Registration (PGC) with the PUCT.  It is owned 50% by E.ON Climate & Renewables, and 50% by EFS Grandview, LLC.

Power Collective Files for Aggregator Registration
On 7/25/14 Power Collective LLC filed for registration as an aggregator with the PUCT.  The cover letter states that Power Collective is currently operating as an LED lighting retrofit company.  Located in Fort Worth, the company intends to serve residential, commercial, and industrial customers.

July 24, 2014

OCI Solar Power LLC Files Notice of EWG Status
On 7/23/14 OCI Solar Power LLC filed with the PUCT its Notice of self-certification for Exempt Wholesale Generator status, previously filed with FERC.

July 22, 2014

Different POLR Selection Process Requested for New Sharyland Areas
On 7/21/14 the PUCT staff filed a request for good cause exception to the PUCT rules related to selection of the Provider of Last Resort (POLR).  They stated that they need this for the new Sharyland areas because there were no competitive Retail Electric Providers (REPs) serving prior to the date set out in the rule, and therefore they need to select the POLRs for the area based on ERCOT-wide aggregated information, rather than by each specific TDU area.

Woodville Renewable Power Plant Files for REC Certification
On 7/21/14 the Woodville Renewable Power Plant filed for certification as a Renewable Energy Credit Generator.  The biomass 49.9 MW generator is located in Woodville, Texas and is owned by East Texas Electric Cooperative.

July 21, 2014

Acacia Energy Adds New Assumed Names
On 7/18/14 Acacia Energy LLC filed an REP amendment with the PUCT adding 3 dba names:  Vital Power, Snap Energy, and Now Power.

July 18, 2014

Customer Acquisition Specialists of America Register as Aggregator in Texas
On 7/17/14 Customer Acquisition Specialists of America, Inc. (CASA)  filed with the PUCT a request to be registered as an Aggregator.  With an authorized representative and business address in Clearwater, Florida, the company also has a an agent for service of process in Dallas, Texas.  Unlike most aggregator registrations, CASA has included financial statements, full resumes, and a general description of the company.  Established in 1999, the company states that it has acquired over 2 million residential and commercial customers in 16 states, including Texas.  For the year ending in 2013, the company of 85 employees had total sales of over $6 million.

July 16, 2014

New Aggregator Registering with PUCT has 5 Senior Staff You May Recognize
On 7/15/14 Energy Choice Solutions LLC filed an application with the PUCT to register as an aggregator.  Based in Addison, Texas, the aggregator states that it will primarily serve commercial and industrial customers, with a secondary focus on residential customers.  The application lists the credentials of 5 people, each of which has significant experience.  Those listed include Doug Brennecke, Miles Higgins, Dale Stewart, Wes Matthews, and Marcie Zlotnik.

 US Retailers LLC Files to Use DBA of Cirro Energy
On 7/15/14 US Retailers, an NRG affiliate, filed an REP amendment request with the PUCT to allow it to use the name of Cirro Energy.  Cirro was acquired by NRG, and the application states that Cirro’s customers will be moved to US Retailers platform.

July 15, 2014

Power Generation Company to Operate and Dispatch DG Assets
On 7/14/14 Enchanted Rock LLC of Kemah, Texas, filed a PGC amendment with the PUCT indicating that it intends to operate and dispatch Distributed Generation assets. 

July 14, 2014

KCI Energy Files for REP Certification
On 7/11/14 KCI Energy filed an application with the PUCT to become certified as a Retail Electric Provider.  Located in Houston, Texas, the applicant’s name is listed as Manouch Shahbaz.

Cogeneration Power Generation Company Changes Name
On 7/11/14 GIP Channelview Acquisition Partners LP filed with the PUCT an amendment to their Power Generation Company registration, changing the name to EIF Acquisition Partners LP.  The contact person has an email address at ethosenergygroup.com.

New Wind Facility Registers as Power Generation Company
On 7/11/14 a new Power Generation Company registration was filed at the PUCT by Stephens Ranch Wind Energy LLC.  The company is owned by Starwood Energy Group Global, LLC.  The 211 MW facility is located in ODonnell, Texas, and is connected with Wind Energy Transmission Texas in ERCOT.  Accompanying this registration is a notice to FERC of Exempt Wholesale Generator Status.

July 11, 2014

Aggregator Electricity Management Services Registers with PUCT
On 7/10/14 Electricity Management Services, LLC filed an application with the PUCT to become an aggregator.  Based in Dallas, the entity plans to aggregate residential, commercial, and industrial customers.

July 10, 2014

Three Wind Units change hands from Edison Mission Energy to NRG Energy
On 7/9/14 Cedro Hill Wind LLC, Goat Wind LP,  and Wildorado Wind LLC filed amendments for a Change in ownership and affiliates due to purchase by NRG Energy, Inc. of 100% of ownership interests of the power generation portfolio of Edison Mission Energy ( EME) in Texas, including interests in Cedro Hill Wind LLC (Docket 41972), Goat Wind LP (Docket 41972), and Wildorado Wind LLC (Docket 41972).

June 27, 2014

New Power Generator using Distributed Generation Registers with PUCT
On 6/26/14 a new Power Generation Company (PGC) called Highgate Power LLC filed an application to register with the PUCT.  The application shows the type of service to be Distributed Generation.  The company is located in Houston, Texas.

June 25, 2014

New Wind Facility Applies for Renewable Energy Credit Certification
On 6/24/14 Mesquite Creek Wind LLC filed an application at the PUCT for certification as a renewable energy credit generator.  The owner is Summit Wind Energy, Inc.  The facility includes 118 wind turbines with a total rated nameplate capacity of 200.6 MW.

June 17, 2014

Merrill Lynch Files Application to Become a Retail Provider in Texas
On 6/16/14 Merrill Lynch Commodities, Inc. filed an application with the PUCT to become a Retail Electric Provider (REP).  The application is to become an “Option 2” REP.  An option 2 REP is one whose service offerings will be limited to specifically identified customers, each of whom contracts for one megawatt or more of capacity.

June 16, 2014

Electric Now LP Files to Cease Operations
On 6/13/14, Electric Now, LP (E-Now), filed a notice with the PUCT that it intends to cease operations effective August 1, 2014.  E-Now states that it no longer has customers and will not be enrolling customers going forward.

June 12, 2014

Panhandle Wind Holdings 2 to Issue Passive Interest to JPMorgan Entities
On 6/12/14, Panhandle Wind Holdings 2 LLC (PH Holdings 2) filed with the PUCT for approval of the issuance of passive equity interests in PH Holdings 2 to JPM Capital Corporation, Morgan Stanley Wind LLC, and Comet Wind TX LLC. PH Holdings 2 notes that since these are passive interests, they are not affiliates in any ordinary sense, and this transactions should not require PUCT approval.  The filing further notes that Pattern Energy Group Inc. will soon indirectly own 100% of the equity interests in PH Holdings 2.  The 23 page application was filed to meet the requirements in the event the PUCT determines that this sale does require approval under PURA.

June 11, 2014

Mesquite Creek Wind LLC Registers at PGC with PUCT
On 6/10/14 a new wind generator filed for registration as a new Power Generation Company (PGC) with the Public Utility Commission of Texas.  The holding company for the Mesquite Creek Wind Farm is Summit Wind Energy, Inc.  The filing indicates that Pacific Summit Energy, LLC is an affiliate in Texas. The contact person is with the Sumitomo Corporation of Americas.  The new facility is connected to Wind Energy Transmission Texas (WETT).

June 9, 2014

New Solar Generator Files for Registration with the PUCT
On 6/6/14 OCI Alamo 3 LLC filed for registration with the PUCT as a Power Generation Company (PGC).  The San Antonio company’s parent company is listed at OCI Solar Power LLC.  The company’s generation unit is named Walzam Solar and has a 5.5 MW capacity.

June 6, 2014

Calpine Agrees to $10,000 Fine for RUC-Related Violations
On 6/5/14, an Agreed Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement was filed at the PUCT on Calpine Corporation’s violations related to oversight of wholesale market participants and to energy offer curves for Reliability Unit Commitment (RUC)-committed resources.  The facts state that prior to the end of the Adjustment Period for an Operating Hour during which a Generation Resource has been committed by ERCOT as part of a RUC process, a QSE shall ensure that an Energy Offer Curve (EOC) that prices all energy from Low Sustainable Limit (LSL) to High Sustainable Limit (HSL) at the system-wide offer cap (SWOC) for the Operating Hours in the RUC commitment period, has been submitted and accepted by ERCOT.  In 2012, human error resulted in Calpine’s failure to have EOCs priced at the SWOC for the operating hours for which it received RUC commitments. After notification of this non-compliance, Calpine self-reported additional instances of noncompliance with the same ERCOT Protocol that occurred on November 15, 2013.  On this date, Calpine correctly updated the RUC status of the Current Operating Plan (COP), but failed to update its EOC to price all energy from LSL to HSL at the SWOC for Operating Hours 21-24 during the RUC commitment period. This error  resulted in SCED dispatching the unit above LSL for a portion of the hours during the RUC commitment period. Calpine has taken corrective action to ensure that the reason for failure will not happen in the future. Calpine has agreed to an administrative penalty of $10,000 for these violations.

June 5, 2014

Morgan Stanley to Pay Fine Related to Non-Spinning Reserve in ERCOT
On 6/4/14, an Agreed Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement was filed at the PUCT relating to Morgan Stanley Capital Group Inc.’s (MSCG’s) violation on March 31, 2012 of ERCOT’s non-spinning reserve service (NSRS) energy deployment criteria, and violation of the Public Utility Regulatory Act (PURA).  The facts state that within twenty minutes of a deployment instruction, a Qualified Scheduled Entity (QSE) representing off-line generating units providing NSRS must update the telemetered Ancillary Service Schedule for Non-Spin for Generation Resources and Load Resources to reflect the deployment amount, which indicates to Security Constrained Economic Dispatch (SCED) that the resource is available to be deployed.  Furthermore, twenty-five minutes following ERCOT deployment instructions, resources must have a status indicating that it is on-line and the telemetered generation must be greater than or equal to the resource’s telemetered Low Sustainable Limit (LSL).  ERCOT issued NSRS deployment instructions on said day for the generation resource knows as Laredo 4.  Laredo 4 did not reach its LSL within 25 minutes, but was between 12 and 72 seconds late.  MSCG has ceased providing services as the Qualified Scheduling Entity (QSE) for Laredo 4, thereby preventing further occurrences of this conduct.  MSCG has agreed to pay $18,000 as a result of its violation of these protocols.

June 2, 2014

QSE Fined for Failure to Meet Contracted Interruptible Load Service in ERCOT
On 5/13/14 a Final Order was filed at the PUCT approving an agreed Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement concerning a violation by Energy Curtailment Specialists, Inc. (ECS) related to Emergency Interruptible Load Service (EILS).  ECS is a Qualified Scheduling Entity and agreed to pay $20,000 for a failure to meet its contracted interruptible load obligation.  A review by ERCOT showed that the combined availability factor of the loads in ECS’s EILS portfolio fell below the required 95% during the June-September 2011 EILS contract period.

Newly Registered Self-Generator; Pattern Panhandle Wind to Issue Equity Interests

• On 5/30/14 Rentech Nitrogen Pasadena, LLC registered with the PUCT as a self-generator.
• On 5/30/14 a Final Order was filed approving the issuance by Pattern Panhandle Wind LLC (Pattern Panhandle), of passive equity interests (Class A) in Pattern Panhandle to two entities, Citicorp North America, Inc. or another 100% wholly-owned direct or indirect subsidiary of Citigroup, Inc. (Citicorp), and EFS Panhandle Wind LLC (EFS) (the sale hereinafter referred to as the Transaction).  The Investors are “tax equity investors” which are passive investors that do not have the right to exert management or operational control over Pattern Panhandle or the Project. Although physically located within the service area of Southwestern Public Service Company, the Project will be interconnected into ERCOT and will not be capable of delivering electricity into the Southwest Power Pool.  Pattern Panhandle does not own other generation assets in ERCOT; however, it is affiliated with, or shares common upstream ownership with, other entities that have generation assets located in ERCOT.  An affiliate, Pattern Gulf Wind LLC, owns a wind generation project in Kenedy County.  Pattern Renewables LP (Pattern Renewables) indirectly owns 100% of the equity interests in Pattern Panhandle.  Pattern Renewables is indirectly owned by Riverstone Holdings LLC (Riverstone).  Riverstone also indirectly owns Topaz Power Group LLC (Topaz).  Topaz indirectly owns equity interests in thermal generation facilities located in ERCOT.  Following the close of the proposed Transaction, Pattern Panhandle stated that the combined generation capacity ownership of Pattern Panhandle, including its affiliates and upstream, ownership, and that of the Investors will total 2,152.6 MW, or approximately 2.6%[1] of the total generation capacity of ERCOT.

Texas REP Agrees to Pay $10,000 Fine for Violations
Texas Retail Electric Provider Smartcom Energy Services LLC has agreed to settle a Notice of Violation (NOV) from the PUCT for $10,000.  The Agreement states that the violations concerned failure to timely file its 2012 audited financial statements and balance sheet.  On 4/11/14, Smartcom filed an amendment requesting to cease operations, which request was approved on 4/30/14.

 

May 30, 2014

NRG Settlement Agreement and Voluntary Mitigation Plan Filed at PUCT
On 5/29/14, the PUCT staff filed a Settlement Agreement with an Amended Voluntary Mitigation Plan (VMP) for NRG companies.  The NRG companies involved are NRG Texas Power LLC, and NRG’s generation affiliates operating in the ERCOT market.  The generating affiliates include:  RG South Texas LP, Elbow Creek Wind Project LLC, Langford Wind Power LLC, NRG Cedar Bayou Development Company LLC, Petra Nova Power I LLC, Gregory Power Partners LLC, and Goat Wind LP.  The filing recommends approval of the Amended VMP, which “specifies offering practices that NRG can use when offering its generation resources into the ERCOT real-time and day-ahead energy and ancillary service markets during the term of the agreement and those offering practices will not be considered an abuse of market power. Adjustments to NRG’s VMP approved on July 13, 2012, are warranted to apply to additional generation resources and, due to the effect that the implementation of ORDC on June 1, 2014, will have on ancillary service offering practices, [are] covered by NRG’s original VMP.”

May 29, 2014

Two Texas REPs Change Financial Qualifications
On 5/28/14, an Order was filed approving an amendment by Retail Electric Provider (REP) Veteran Energy to change their financial qualifications.  Veteran Energy was recently reported to experience a mass transition of its customers.  Another Order was filed on 5/28/14 approving an amendment by REP Infinite Electric LLC to change financial qualifications.

May 28, 2014

One Texas REP Ceasing Operations, Other Group of REPs Designate Affiliate to Provide POLR Service
On 5/27/14 Texas Power, LP filed an amendment with the PUCT stating that it will cease operations effective June 21, 2014.  Texas Power states that it sold its books of customers to another licensed REP in late 2013.  Also on 5/27/14, several Large Service Providers (LSPs), namely Fulcrum Retail Energy LLC, Tara Energy LLC, and Hudson Energy Services LLC, requested that the Commission approve the designation of their LSP affiliate Just Energy Texas, LP to provide Provider of Last Resort (POLR) service on their behalf for the Residential and Small Non-Residential Customer Classes for 2013/1014. 

New Power Generation Company Registers with Texas PUC
 On 5/27/14, Grand Prairie Landfill Gas Production, LLC registered with the PUCT as a power generation company (PGC).  While the PGC is located in Grand Prairie, Texas, the contact person is with EQM Technologies & Energy in Cincinnati, Ohio.

May 23, 2014

Proposed Order for REP Violation Corrected by PUCT Staff

On 5/22/14 a correction was filed to the Proposed Order related to a Notice of Violation and Settlement Agreement between Retail Electric Providder (REP) Smartcom Energy Services and the PUCT.  The correction changed ordering paragraph 3 to conform to the agreement and to read “Smartcom shall file an affidavit of payment in this docket no later than five calendar days after the payment is made.   The Commission shall use its best efforts to release Smartcom’s Letter of Credit within 10 business days from receipt of the affidavit of payment.”  The revised language deleted stating that the LOC would be released providing no new substantive issues arise.

New Application Filed at the PUCT for Retail Electric Provider Certification

On 5/22/14 a new application for REP Certification was filed at the PUCT by American PowerNet Management, LP.  The company is headquartered in Wyomissing, PA. 

May 22, 2014

Texas Retail Provider Ceasing Operations and Relinquishing Certificate 

On 5/21/14 APNA Holdings LLC filed an application with the PUCT to cease operations and relinquish its Retail Electric Provider (REP) certificate.  It stated that it has sold its customers to another REP.

May 19, 2014

Texas REP settles Notice of Violation

A final order was filed  on 5/16/14 at the PUCT for a settlement related to a Notice of Violation against Just Energy (Docket No. 42375).  Just Energy agreed to pay an administrative penalty of $164,000.00.  The violations, among other things, involved various enrollment processes, not retaining records for at least 24 months, issues related to verification of authorization, move-ins and switches, timing of bills, and improper disconnection notices.

May 15, 2014

At Texas PUCT, REP Approved, REPs Amend Certificates, REP Relinquishes Certificate
Copyright 2014 by Competitive Assets, LLC.  All rights reserved

Jade Energy LLC was approved by the PUCT as a new REP on 5/14/14, following 3 previous applications that were not approved in Docket Nos. 42153, 41853, and 41836.  Other applications that had been made by some of the same persons under the name Bose Energy in Docket Nos. 41786, which was withdrawn, 41507 which was approved and the REP later withdrew and ceased operations, and 41109, which was also withdrawn.

Gexas Energy LP and also NextEra Retail of Texas LP filed REP amendments on 5/13/14 requesting a change in Technical/Managerial qualifications.

 Pepco Energy Services, Inc. filed a request to relinquish its Retail Electric Provider certificate on 5/13/14.

May 5, 2014

NRG and Affiliate REPs Begin Closer Consolidation
Copyright 2014 by Competitive Assets, LLC.  All rights reserved

Several Retail Electric Provider (REP) Amendment filings at the PUCT indicate that an effort is underway for NRG and its affiliate REPs in Texas are in consolidation mode.  Amendments were filed by and recently approved for Reliant Energy Retail Services, US Retailers, Energy Plus, Everything Energy, and Green Mountain to amend their financial qualifications to rely on NRG.  Cirro Energy also filed an amendment doing the same, and also changing ownership from Dominion.  In addition, Cirro, Green Mountain, and Energy Plus have just filed to designated Reliant Energy Retail Services as their LSP affiliate to provide POLR services in the areas where they were designated as the LSPs to provide Provider of Last Resort (POLR) services.