Regulatory
Proceedings
Expert analysis and testimony for energy affordability proceedings.
Energy affordability has become a defining issue in rate cases and regulatory inquiries across the country. PEA supports utilities, state agencies, and advocacy organizations with independent analysis and expert testimony grounded in household-level data. Our founder Dr. Destenie Nock served as an expert witness in the Massachusetts energy burden docket (D.P.U. 24-15) and helped develop the energy affordability definition adopted by the state.
Our work in regulatory proceedings typically moves through three stages:
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Stakeholder engagement and affordability framework. We work with the parties involved (e.g., utilities, regulators, advocates, community organizations) to define what energy affordability means for the proceeding. That includes looking beyond standard energy burden calculations at factors like energy-limiting behavior, housing costs, and disconnection risk. The framework is shaped by the jurisdiction and the data that's available; meter-level data is valuable when we have it, but it is not a prerequisite.
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Analysis and scenario modeling. We produce the analytical work that supports the proceeding: household-level impact assessments, rate structure comparisons, geographic risk mapping, and financial exposure projections. Everything is prepared for regulatory review and built to hold up under cross-examination.
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Testimony and rate design. We prepare and file expert testimony and work with stakeholders on rate structures (such as tiered discount rates) that reduce bad debt for the utility while improving affordability and health outcomes for households.