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PSC grants temporary extension for PHI utilities' managed charging programs
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Summary
The Public Service Commission unanimously authorized PHI utilities to continue their smart charge management programs through March 31, 2026 (or until phase 2 approval). Staff recommended the limited extension to avoid interrupting programs while the commission reviews phase 2; OPC urged further feeder-specific analysis.
The Public Service Commission voted Dec. 3 to authorize Potomac Electric Power Co. and Delmarva Power and Light Co. to continue their smart charge management (SCM) programs through the earlier of March 31, 2026 or the commission’s authorization of phase 2. The vote was unanimous.
PSC staff analyst Deepa Fadei recommended the extension, citing Argonne National Laboratory findings that managed charging can reduce peak load and defer infrastructure costs and noting an increase in enrollment for PHI’s programs. Isaac Lindenbaum of the Office of People's Counsel said the Argonne report alone is insufficient to finalize phase 2 and urged feeder-specific analysis, targeted enrollment, additional comments, and a hearing before broader approval.
A PHI representative told commissioners the companies had paused enrollments because of the regulatory pause and reported roughly 1,800 customers enrolled or on wait lists. The companies and a working group recommended proceeding with the extension and performing a midpoint evaluation of incentives and grid impacts. Commissioners asked that midpoint reviews include feeder-constraint data and be informed if parties have trouble collecting required metrics before the midpoint.
Chair Hoover moved to grant the extension and commissioners voted 'Aye.' The commission adjourned after the vote.
