Number: RS21407
Title: Federal Energy Regulatory Commissions Standard Market Design Activities
Authors: Amy Abel, Resources, Science, and Industry Division 
Abstract: On July 31, 2002, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NOPR) on standard market design (SMD) that is intended to remove the remaining impediments to competitive electricity markets. FERC expects to issue a final rule in the summer of 2003. The SMD NOPR addresses congestion management, long-term resource planning, day-ahead and spot market design, and market monitoring and mitigation. Those in favor of the SMD NOPR argue that it is necessary to eliminate discrimination in the transmission system and to create competitive markets. Opponents argue in part that the NOPR would usurp state authority by transferring aspects of transmission, resource planning, and retail rate design away from the states.
Pages: 6
Date: Updated January 31, 2003