Utility companies would disclose how rate assets affect customer bills

The Corporation Commission and public service corporations would disclose specified regulatory-asset balances, expected recovery, and rate-base treatment. This applies when a regulatory asset is included in a utility's rate base or affects rates using a test-year or historical balance. Utilities must report the balance on the rate-effective date, the difference from the test-year balance, and the amortization expense expected to be recovered while the rates are in effect. Utilities must explain how they treat assets whose rate-base value stays fixed and assets whose value declines as the balance is amortized. The Commission must ensure the disclosures let the public compare total recovery through rates with the remaining unamortized balance. The section does not require the Commission to use any particular method for adjusting rates or rate-base values. The text does not state an effective date. The disclosure requirements apply when the stated regulatory-asset and rate-setting conditions occur.