ORDER NO. 97-164

ENTERED MAY 2 1997

This is an electronic copy. Appendix not included.

BEFORE THE PUBLIC UTILITY COMMISSION

OF OREGON

UM 848

DISPOSITION: APPLICATION APPROVED

The Commission received an application, filed pursuant to ORS 757.120, ORS 757.125, and ORS 757.262, requesting approval of a five-year amortization period for Demand-Side Management Program expenditures for accounting purposes.

Based on a review of the application and the Commission’s records, the Commission finds that the application satisfies applicable statutes and administrative rules. At its public meeting on April 29, 1997, the Commission adopted Staff’s recommendation to approve the application. Staff’s recommendation is attached as Appendix A and is incorporated by reference.

Jurisdiction

ORS 757.005 defines a "public utility" as anyone providing heat, light, water, or power service to the public in Oregon. The Company is a public utility subject to the Commission’s jurisdiction.

Applicable law

ORS 757.120 and ORS 757.125 require the Commission to prescribe the manner of utility accounts and records. ORS 757.262 allows the Commission to adopt policies designed to encourage acquisition of cost-effective conservation resources. The Company’s request is consistent with these statutes.

ORDER

IT IS ORDERED that Northwest Natural Gas Company’s request for approval of accounting treatment as described in Appendix A is granted. Ratemaking treatment is reserved for rate proceedings.

Made, entered, and effective ________________________.

A party may request rehearing or reconsideration of this order pursuant to ORS 756.561. A request for rehearing or reconsideration must be filed with the Commission within 60 days of the date of service of this order. The request must comply with the requirements of OAR 860-014-0095. A copy of any such request must also be served on each party to the proceeding as provided by OAR 860-013-0070. A party may appeal this order to a court pursuant to ORS 756.580.