Docket Number: U-210595
UTC to hold two workshops focused on public involvement and Participatory Funding
LACEY, Wash. - The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission invites interested parties to attend a two-part ‘UTC 101’ training and virtual workshop series to learn more about the purpose and role of the commission, how to get involved in commission proceedings, and the new Participatory Funding program that provides financial support to customer advocate groups who intervene in energy-related UTC cases.
In the first workshop, UTC staff will provide a general overview of the history and authority of the commission, an overview of UTC staff roles and proceedings, current key issues before the commission, and impacts to customers.
In the second workshop, UTC staff will focus specifically on the types of proceedings it holds, how organizations can access Participatory Funding to participate in those proceedings, and other ways the public can get involved in UTC proceedings.
WHAT
Virtual-only training and workshop series
WHO
Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission
WHEN and WHERE
Workshop Part A - July 13, 2022
1 p.m.
Workshop Part B - July 21, 2022
1 p.m.
Participate by Zoom (encouraged, if possible).
Participate by phone. Call 253-215-8782 and use Meeting ID: 891 0179 9524# and Passcode: 711964.
Translation services are available at no cost to you. If possible, please inform the commission at least one business day prior to the meeting by calling 360-664-1140, or by sending an email to paige.doyle@utc.wa.gov.
If you need a reasonable accommodation to attend the meeting, please contact the UTC at least one business day prior by calling 360-664-1132 or emailing human_resources@utc.wa.gov.
BACKGROUND
In November 2021, the three-member commission issued a policy statement to provide guidance to organizations seeking Participatory Funding to participate on behalf of energy utility customers in UTC proceedings.
Over the course of developing the policy statement, the commission heard from stakeholders and the public that one of the barriers to participating in UTC proceedings is a lack of understanding of the UTC’s role, types of proceedings, and options for public participation. This workshop series is one way the commission is beginning to address that need.
The UTC regulates the rates and services of the state’s investor-owned electric and natural gas utilities, landline telephone companies, and private water systems among other industries. It is the commission’s responsibility to ensure regulated companies provide safe and reliable service to customers at reasonable rates, while allowing them the opportunity to earn a fair profit.
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Editor’s Note: All documents related to this proceeding are available on the UTC’s website in Docket U-210595. More information about the Participatory Funding program is available at www.utc.wa.gov/participatoryfunding.