2. SCE's Request

On September 10, 2003, SCE filed a motion for interim authority to hedge QF natural gas price risk for 2004 and for expedited consideration. SCE states that it has requested this authority in its 2004 Short Term Procurement Plan; however, it has now determined it needs authority prior to the scheduled December 18, 2003 Commission decision on its plan. In support of its need for immediate authority, SCE cites the natural gas price volatility at the Southern California border and at Malin in northern California over the last two years.

SCE requests the Commission shorten time for responses to its motion to September 17, 2003 and waive the provisions of Rule 77.7 of the Commission's Rules of Practice and Procedure, addressing public review and comment on draft decisions. SCE states that it has discussed the relief it seeks here with members of its PRG and believes the motion will be uncontested, although parties may file limited comments addressing certain details regarding the implementation of SCE's request.

On September 18, 2003, the assigned Administrative Law Judge issued a ruling shortening time for responses to September 23, 2003 and stating that the matter would be handled on an expedited basis with the public review and comment period reduced but not waived.