WASHINGTON, D.C. - Senator Frank H. Murkowski, Ranking Member on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, today released the following statement at a hearing to discuss the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s (FERC) proposed Standard Market Design (SMD) for the nation’s power markets. “FERC has produced a very aggressive strategy to help prevent energy crises like the one that plagued California for more than two years. Deregulation will work, and it will serve the markets well – FERC agrees and this proposal is a clear indication of their support. “Steps must be taken to smooth the transition to a deregulated electricity market. But looking over FERC’s plan, there are still a few bumps in the road that need to be addressed before any attempt is made to implement the plan. “I’m concerned that FERC’s plan impacts an important state responsibility – planning and meeting future power needs through the regulation of generation and transmission. These are issues that normally fall on the shoulders of states, giving them the flexibility to respond to their own unique market needs. I am also not certain that interstate transmission can truly be standardized with a plan that meets every states’ needs. I do not believe the SMD should be implemented until these questions are answered. “Deregulation will secure our energy markets and give consumers greater options in meeting their energy needs. FERC must remain vigilant in protecting the processes that will get us there.” ###