DE SB179

Expands the Public Advocate's authority to appear before state and federal courts and state and federal regulatory agencies in matters involving public utility rates, services, and practices, as well as any matter involving energy policy.

Authorizes the Public Advocate to hire experts in utility regulation, including economists, cost of capital experts, rate design experts, accountants, engineers, and attorneys as needed for proceedings before the Public Utility Commission and other matters.

Requires annual budgets for expert compensation and expenses to be provided through the Delaware Public Utility Regulatory Revolving Fund, with provisions allowing the Public Advocate to request additional funds from the General Assembly for specific instances and emergencies.

Makes technical corrections to conform the statute to Delaware Legislative Drafting Manual standards, including replacing "shall" with "must" and "may" as appropriate.