This ICR is
approved for 2 years to allow FERC to better address the issues
raised in several of the comments it received on this notice. FERC
was not able the address fully many of the comments as part of this
ICR package. In addition, FERC should further evaluate the need and
purpose of these information collection activities in the evolving
competitive market. FERC should also consult with the affected
parties. The package should not be eligible for an emergency
extension of OMB approval at the end of the 2 years. The following
information should be provided explicitly: FERC should discuss the
merits, including practical utility and burden, of collecting
information from only a portion of the industry on key elements of
their production cost and consider the merits of publicly
disclosing this information in an evolving competitive market. In
addition, FERC should provide justification for why it believes the
Commission's ability to ensure just and reasonable rates would be
impaired by confidential treatment of Form 423. Finally, FERC
should specifically address commenters concerns that public
disclosure harms the competitive position of the reporting parties
and adversely affects the competitiveness of the market.
Inventory as of this Action
Requested
Previously Approved
01/31/2003
01/31/2003
7,632
0
0
11,448
0
0
632,000
0
0
FERC Form 423 is used to gather
information on the cost and quality of fuels delivered to electric
power plants. The Commission uses such data to conduct fuel
reviews, rate investi- gation and to track market changes and
trends. The data is also used by other government agencies to track
the supply, dispo- sition and prices of fuel, to conduct
enviromental assessments and by electric market participants and
the public to assess the competitive market place. Form 423 is
required to be submitted to the Commission no later than 45 days
after the end of the re- porting month.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that
the collection of information encompassed by this request complies
with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR
1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding
the proposed collection of information, that the certification
covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a
benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control
number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of
these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked
and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.