(Newark, NJ – November 16, 2006) PSE&G has been named America’s most reliable electric utility for the second year in a row. That is good news for the more than 2 million New Jersey homes and businesses that rely on PSE&G for power. The national 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. This is the second year that the utility, the largest in New Jersey, was named the nation’s most reliable electric utility, and the fifth year that it garnered the regional award.

“This newest recognition underscores PSE&G’s longstanding commitment to deliver safe, reliable, affordable service to the people and businesses who power New Jersey,” said Ralph LaRossa, PSE&G president and COO. “Our employees and systems have a strong track record for performing well day-to-day and during emergencies. 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 is really 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 state regulators, who have long made improving electric system reliability a priority.

“Being named ‘America’s most reliable electric utility’ for the second year in a row is no small feat on PSE&G’s part,” said Jeanne M. Fox, President of the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities. “The Board works closely with all of New Jersey’s utilities to ensure New Jersey customers receive the most reliable utility services, and we are pleased that PSE&G is being nationally honored for its reliability efforts. We look forward to continuing to work with them and other Garden State electric utilities to make certain that New Jersey residents are provided with the highest quality of service possible in the years to come.”