SPP is seeking FERC approval for a revised Tariff that the RTO says will more accurately screen generators for market power abuses.

FERC staff issued a Notice of Alleged Violation last week against traders who exploited a loophole in PJM UTC trades in a case that will likely go to court.

After nearly four years of investigation, FERC publicly accused an energy trading firm of market manipulation in a case that dogged enforcement chief Norman Bay through his confirmation as commissioner.

Norman Bay's case for confirmation as FERC chair wasn’t helped last week by the responses Acting Chair Cheryl LaFleur filed in response to Senators. LaFleur detailed seven enforcement cases in which she differed from Bay and her fellow commissioners.

Top enforcement officials at FERC and the CFTC assured energy lawyers they respect the due process rights of investigative targets, rejecting allegations that they have employed heavy-handed tactics.

The winter’s high prices for gas and power have busted budgets and left state regulators and consumer advocates scrambling for answers. FERC says it has seen no evidence of market manipulation.

The Powhatan Energy Fund, the subject of a FERC investigation for more than three years without being charged, has decided to go on offense by releasing documents it says proves it has been unfairly hounded.