PR-11-187 -- PSC Chairman Gunn Participates in White House Energy Panel

Contact: Kevin Kelly (573) 751-9300

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- JUNE 15, 2011

JEFFERSON CITY---Missouri Public Service Commission Chairman Kevin Gunn was one of 14 state public service commissioners to participate in the rollout of a major White House initiative to modernize the nation’s electricity system.

"I was honored to be able to represent Missouri consumers at this event," Chairman Gunn said. "As we work to modernize the nation's electricity system, an open and transparent dialogue with our federal counterparts is absolutely essential.”

“Although we have different roles and responsibilities, we both serve the same constituent: our nation's consumers.  By working together and understanding our responsibilities, we can modernize the grid, improve reliability, and make the system work better for all Americans," Gunn said.

Chairman Gunn participated in the event through his work with the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC).  NARUC is the national association representing state public service commissioners throughout the country.  Chairman Gunn serves on the Association's Board of Directors and is co-chair of the NARUC Washington Action Committee. 

Chairman Gunn said the event helped broaden understanding between state and federal agencies on these issues.

The June 13 event marked the release of the White House's report on grid modernization issues entitled "A Policy Framework for the 21st Century Grid: Enabling Our Secure Energy Future."  The report is available online at  http://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/microsites/ostp/nstc-smart-grid-june2011.pdf

The White House also announced several new projects related to the report, including the issuance of $250 million in loans for smart-grid development in rural locations and the launch of a private-sector initiative called Grid 21 aimed at promoting consumer friendly innovations on the transmission system.

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