(November 16, 2005 - NEWARK, NJ) - PSE&G has been named America’s most reliable electric utility. That is good news for the 2 million New Jersey homes and business that rely on PSE&G for power. The recognition is the result of a century of solid engineering and innovation, and the constant commitment of the utility’s skilled personnel.

PSE&G electric customers experience far fewer and shorter interruptions than those who live elsewhere in the country. When there are power outages -- often the result of tree contacts or storm damage -- customers and community leaders are kept updated on repair and restoration plans.

That was the determination of PA Consulting, the industry benchmarking group that recently awarded PSE&G its top honor, the ReliabilityOne National Achievement Award. PSE&G has won the group’s regional award for the last four years, but this is the first time it has garnered this national recognition.

“Our employees and systems have a strong track record for performing well day-to-day and during emergencies,” said Ralph LaRossa, PSE&G’s vice president for electric delivery. “I am proud of our reputation and our ability to continually deliver.”

The top award is given to the utility that demonstrates the most improved and sustained performance over time, as well as accuracy in predicting its capabilities and communicating with customers and regulators. Planning, preparation and response to major events are also factors.

“Reliability, at its most basic level, is about serving others and building strong relationships in the process,” LaRossa said. “That reputation serves as an inspiration and a constant reminder of our responsibility to maintain the public’s trust.”

PSE&G’s performance won additional accolades from federal and state regulators, who have long made improving electric system reliability a priority. Suedeen Kelly, a Commissioner at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, gave the keynote address at the awards ceremony last week. She reminded attendees that power grid reliability is vital to consumers and our nation's economy.

Jeanne M. Fox, President of the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities, was also supportive. “On behalf on my fellow commissioners, we are pleased that PSE&G has received this award and honored that New Jersey has this distinct recognition,” she said.

Public Service Electric and Gas Company (PSE&G) is New Jersey’s oldest and largest regulated gas and electric delivery utility, serving nearly three-quarters of the state’s population. PSE&G is the winner of the ReliabilityOne National Achievement Award for superior electric system reliability. PSE&G is a subsidiary of Public Service Enterprise Group Incorporated (PSEG) (NYSE:PEG), a diversified energy company (www.pseg.com).