A new group, the Independent Power Suppliers of ERCOT (IPSE), has formed to speak for nonutility power suppliers that operate within the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT). The stated mission of IPSE is "to promote the reliable operation of power systems within ERCOT, in which a competitive, environmentally responsible and profitable independent electric power industry can flourish." Membership is open to all nonutility generators (NUGs), cogenerators, and power marketers. In 1994, ERCOT opened its membership to NUGs that own and operate generating facilities within ERCOT; so far, five independent power producers (IPPs) have joined. IPSE says it will represent the perspective of IPP's on the various ERCOT committees and task forces. But it added that IPSE membership does not preclude nonutility members from direct participation in ERCOT functions. IPSE also will provide power marketers with a voice in future issues, although presently they are prohibited from ERCOT membership and from conducting transactions within ERCOT.
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