On March 5, 2013, FERC announced the details of its upcoming technical conference focused on the scheduling practices of natural gas and electric markets.  The technical conference is the second of two technical conferences ordered by FERC in a November 15, 2012 order to address common issues raised during regional conferences (see November 16, 2012 edition of the WER).  The first technical conference was held on February 13, 2013, and addressed communication issues between the two industries (see February 14, 2012 edition of the WER).

The technical conference will take place on April 25, 2013 from 9:00am to 5:00pm at FERC headquarters.  The conference will address: (1) whether and how to achieve more efficient scheduling practices; (2) whether to make changes to provide additional scheduling flexibility; (3) whether the establishment of a single “energy day” is desired and beneficial; (4) how to better schedule gas for evenings, weekends, and holidays; (5) whether electric scheduling should be completed after gas and transportation scheduling; and (6) any suggestions that allow for more efficient use of infrastructure.

FERC will issue a supplemental notice prior to the conference detailing the agenda and organization of the conference.  FERC does not require participant registration, but does recommend it, and those interested in registering online may do so here.   Those interested in speaking at the conference are required to notify FERC by March 15, 2013, and may do so here.  The conference will not be transcribed, but an online webcast will be provided at www.ferc.gov.

A copy of FERC’s notice regarding the technical conference is available here.