5. Outstanding Procedural Matters
On September 6, 2005, the USCL Corporation (USCL) filed a motion to add to the minimum functionality criteria that were established in the February 19, 2004 Assigned Commissioner Ruling (ACR).5 The motion requests that the Commission require that any meter deployed as part of a utility advanced metering infrastructure project include a universal, nonproprietary local area network to wide area network bi-directional interface. On September 20, 2005, SDG&E filed a response opposing the motion. On September 21, 2005, PG&E filed a response opposing the motion. USCL replied on September 23, 2005.
We deny the motion to add new minimum functionality criteria at this time. Denial of the motion does not go to the merits of whether or not inclusion of a universal, nonproprietary local area network to wide area network bi-directional interface would be an appropriate decision by any given utility in selecting a particular advanced metering infrastructure technology. Rather, we conclude that it is too late in the process to modify the minimum functionality criteria. USCL is free to participate in the individual utility applications for approval of their advanced metering infrastructure deployment projects to advocate that a universal, nonproprietary local area network to wide area network bi-directional interface should be included in the selected project because of the incremental benefits that USCL believes would inure to
ratepayers. The minimum functionality criteria are just that, minimum criteria that are not meant to limit any party's ability to advocate for selection of a technology that incorporates additional functionality.
A number of research (evaluation and marketing) reports were completed that have not yet been filed. The utilities should file a list of completed research reports and one copy of any completed research reports that have not yet been filed within 10 days of the issuance of this decision.6 There are a number of research reports that are underway in 2005 that are not expected to be completed
before this rulemaking is closed. A copy of these research reports should be filed in this proceeding within 10 days of completion. An electronic copy or notice of availability of each report should be served on the service list to this proceeding, and any related or successor proceedings like A.05-06-006 et al. Filing of research reports will not reopen the proceeding.
Each month, the utilities file a report on interruptible load and demand response programs in R.02-06-001. The contents of this report should be reviewed in light of the reporting requirements in D.05-10-042. Although we are closing this rulemaking, the need for these monthly reports remains. The utilities shall file their monthly reports with the Director of the Energy Division who shall cause them to be made available on the Commission's website. The utilities shall serve the reports on the service list to this proceeding, and any related or successor proceedings.
The original scoping memo indicated that hearings might be necessary. No hearings have been held and we now reverse that determination because all issues for which resolution is possible have decided through opportunity to comment.
We affirm all rulings made by the ALJ up to this point in the proceeding. To the extent that any motions remain outstanding, all such motions are denied.
5 USCL concurrently filed a petition to intervene. USCL is granted appearance status in this proceeding.
6 Given the length of these reports, the utilities may file one copy rather than the customary five with the Docket Office, and to provide an electronic link to all parties or hard copies on request.
