• US-Canadian Task Force Issues Final Report on August 2003 Blackout
In April 2004, the U.S.-Canadian task force issued its final report into the causes of the August 14, 2003 blackout. Offering 46 recommendations to minimize the chances of a similar blackout in the future, the report states that with better communication and early warning systems the 2003 blackout could have been avoided. The report also raises questions about competitive electric markets and electric reliability.
CFC Statement

• August 14th Blackout Interim Report
Released on November 19, 2003, the joint Canadian and American task force cites malfunctioning computer systems, poor communication, human error and inadequate tree trimming as the primary causes of the August 14th blackout. Both FirstEnergy, based in Ohio, and the Midwest Independent System Operator (MISO), based in Indiana, are cited for operating violations.
Remarks by U.S. Secretary of Energy Spencer Abraham
MISO Statement Regarding Task Force Report

• CFC Environmental Initiatives Memo
CFC unveils its environmental initiatives for 2004, including a renewable energy target, stable funding for the state's Public Benefits program and participation in a building codes collaborative.

• CFC and WIEG Amicus Brief to the U.S. Supreme Court
Members of CFC and the Wisconsin Industrial Energy Group (WIEG) filed a brief on November 13, 2003 asking the U.S. Supreme Court to reject Alliant Energy's petition challenging the Wisconsin Utility Holding Company Act.