WASHINGTON, DC — The energy bill that was passed by the U.S. Senate calls for the repeal of the Public Utility Holding Company Act (PUHCA). Hvacr contractor groups have opposed the repeal of PUHCA because it includes language preventing public utilities from engaging in unfair competition.

The act provides protection for contractors because it has helped stop utility holding companies from cross-subsidizing other businesses, such as hvacr service. Contractor associations have emphasized the need for the modernization of PUHCA, or for replacement legislation addressing fair competition, rather than its outright repeal.

Since the House energy bill does not include PUHCA repeal, the two branches will have to work out their differences in crafting the final energy legislation.

Publication date: 05/06/2002