Howard Learner Statement on Exelon – Pepco Merger Vote in Washington, D.C.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 26, 2016

D.C. Rejection of Exelon-Pepco Proposal Merits Strong Watching from Illinois
Potential for Approval of Merger Hinges on Renewable Energy Questions Akin to Those Being Discussed in Springfield

STATEMENT BY HOWARD A. LEARNER
Executive Director, Environmental Law & Policy Center

CHICAGO – Howard Learner, Executive Director of the Environmental Law & Policy Center, issued the following statement in response to Washington D.C. Public Service Commission’s rejection of a proposed Exelon-Pepco merger:

“Exelon’s proposed multibillion dollar takeover of Pepco apparently now turns, in part, on renewable energy issues similar to those being debated here. In Illinois, Exelon has opposed efforts to accelerate wind and solar development, while asking Illinois ratepayers to subsidize its uneconomical nuclear plants. The D.C. Commission correctly recognized that regulators have a duty to promote competitive energy markets to bring consumers the best value and expand market choices. Deals that give Exelon or distribution utilities, such as Pepco and ComEd, exclusive rights to develop new competitive services like microgrids and solar, are clearly not consistent with fostering a competitive retail market.

“We hope that Governor Rauner and Illinois legislators are keeping a close watch on the East Coast, so that any future deal in Illinois promotes competition and cost-effective clean energy for the benefit of Illinois consumers.”