1. 2016 National Conference of Regulatory Attorneys
Parlay – The Interplay between Consumer Advocates and Public Utility Commissions
IOWA OFFICE OF CONSUMER ADVOCATE
Mark Schuling, Consumer Advocate
June 19-22, 2016, Tampa Bay, Florida

2. Office of Consumer Advocate
The Consumer Advocate acts as attorney for and represents all consumers generally and the public generally in all proceedings before the Iowa Utilities Board.
OCA has a staff of seven lawyers, three support staff, and nine technical staff, such as economists, financial analysts and engineers.

3. OCA’S Role in Utility Regulation Varies - Rates
1. Electric, Gas, and Water Rate
Proceedings – Party with Interest
Advanced Rate Making Proceeding –
Party with Interest

4. OCA’S Role in Utility Regulation Varies - Telephone
Carrier vs. Carrier Dispute, Third Party Participant
Carrier of Last Resort, Service,
and Safety, Party with Interest

5. OCA’S Role in Utility Regulation Varies - Tariffs
Gas and Electric Tariffs - Third Party Participant

6. OCA’S Role in Utility Regulation Varies - Energy Efficiency
Iowa Code § 476.6(14) states: “Electric and gas public utilities shall offer energy efficiency programs to their customers through energy efficiency plans.” - Party with Interest

7. OCA’S Role in Utility Regulation Varies – Electric and Gas Transmission
Utility Infrastructure - Third Party Participant

8. OCA’S Role in Utility Regulation Varies – Proceedings with Intervenors
Proceedings with Intervenors - Party with Interest and Third Party Participant