Moscow, 15 March 2006. Today, NP "Administrator of Trading System" (NP "ATS") and OAO "UES SO-CDA" launched simulation trading based on a new model for the wholesale electricity (capacity) market. The first trading session attracted over 150 participants, including about 100 subsidiaries of RAO "UES of Russia".

The simulation trading is designed to help the market infrastructure entities and participants prepare for the launch of a fully-fledged wholesale electricity (capacity) market based on the new model using bilateral regulated contracts.

In the course of the simulation trading, the new market model and new software and hardware versions will be subjected to a thorough testing and assessment. Based on the trading results, the price situation on the market will be analysed to forecast prices under the new model.

The simulation trading is now being held for all wholesale electricity market participants in the first price area (Europe). With effect from March 17, 2006, it will be launched for the second price area (Siberia).