The Education/Electric Buying Group, which represents Long Island public schools, has asked the New York Public Service Commission (PSC) to separately consider its proposal for a competitive electric pilot program. The program calls for electricity purchased at the best price, rather than just through the Long Island Lighting Co. The buying group claims that LILCO has refused requests to discuss the proposal. The school districts estimate they could save $20 million annually in electricity costs without substantially affecting LILCO's net earnings.
WPS-Power Development, Inc. has formed a subsidiary, Mid-American Power Ventures, Inc. Both companies fall under WPS Resources Corp., the holding company for Wisconsin Public Services Corp.
UtiliCorp United, Inc. signed a year-long agreement to supply energy to Ground Round Restaurants, Inc., which operates eateries or has franchises in 22 states. Initially, UtiliCorp's EnergyOne brand will supply natural gas to 67 restaurants in four states. EnergyOne will supply gas to the remaining restaurants as other states open to retail competition.