Consumer News... For You! The OUCC's August 2017 Newsletter
State of Indiana sent this bulletin at 08/09/2017 11:31 AM EDT
AUGUST 2017
I&M RATE CASE Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) has filed a new rate case, seeking an annual increase of about $263 million. The OUCC's attorneys and technical staff have started reviewing the nearly 6,000 pages of testimony, exhibits, and additional documents in I&M's case-in-chief. We expect to file testimony in November. Written consumer comments are invited. Case updates are being posted on the OUCC's website.
CASE UPDATES The IURC has approved a settlement agreement among the OUCC, Citizens Energy Group, and some of the utility's wholesale sewage treatment customers. OUCC analysts are reviewing Duke Energy's new proposal to allow customers to opt out of having new smart meters for a one-time charge and a monthly fee. In addition, our natural gas staff continues to review ongoing GCA filings, which allow utilities to recover wholesale natural gas costs.
THINK LUMENS, NOT WATTS Shopping for new light bulbs? Look at the lumens instead of watts when you compare your options. That's especially important when buying LEDs, which use far less power to produce the same amount of light as traditional bulbs. For example, a 20-watt LED produces about 1,600 lumens. That's the same amount as a 100-watt incandescent bulb. LEDs are also designed to last up to 25 times as long.
KUDOS! We'd like to congratulate several OUCC staff members who have received special State recognition for going above and beyond the call of duty. Pictured (L to R) are Kim Weaver, Paula Romdall, and Randy Helmen. Their hard work and recent accomplishments exemplify great government service at a great value for all Indiana consumers.
OUR MISSION To represent all Indiana consumers to ensure quality, reliable utility services at the most reasonable prices possible through dedicated advocacy, consumer education, and creative problem solving.
