Consumer News... For You! The OUCC's February 2018 Newsletter
State of Indiana sent this bulletin at 02/09/2018 08:57 AM EST
FEBRUARY 2018
TAX CUTS With the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act reducing the amount of federal income taxes utilities must pay, Indiana and other states are looking at how consumers may benefit. An Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) investigation is focusing on how the law will affect Indiana's investor-owned utilities and their customers. Your comments are welcome, and the OUCC is posting case updates online.
NIPSCO RATE CASE The consumer comment period in the NIPSCO gas rate case has been extended to February 21, with the OUCC scheduled to complete our review and file testimony at the end of the month. NIPSCO has reduced its request from $143.5 million to $117.9 million following passage of the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act.
IPL RATE CASE Our technical and legal staff will be reviewing Indianapolis Power & Light Company's (IPL's) rate request over the next several weeks. The OUCC has until May 24 to file testimony, with the IURC to hold an evidentiary hearing in July. At least one public field hearing will also be scheduled. Follow the case on our website.
ADDITIONAL UPDATES
Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) has reduced its pending rate request from $263 million to $191.5 million due to changes in federal tax law. The OUCC's November testimony recommended limiting the increase to $125 million. A Commission order is expected later this year.
The OUCC is scheduled to file testimony in the Lafayette municipal water rate case on February 15. It is the city's first water rate request in more than 15 years.
Consumer comments are invited in the South Eastern Indiana Natural Gas rate case, with OUCC testimony expected in late March. The utility serves customers in Dearborn and Ripley counties.
With Indiana employers needing to fill about 85,000 jobs, Governor Eric J. Holcomb and Lieutenant Governor Suzanne Crouch have launched Indiana’s Next Level Veterans initiative. The new program will connect discharging military personnel, and veterans throughout Indiana, with public and private-sector employers who need committed and skilled workers for high-wage, high-demand positions. If you’ve served in the military, www.in.gov/veterans offers a one-stop shop for jobs, training, and more.
HANG IN THERE... Even though Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow, spring will eventually get here. In the meantime, our winter heating season tips can help you save energy, while budget billing can help level out your electric and natural gas costs from month to month. Also, it's always a good idea to make sure your browser's bookmarks include your utility's storm outage page.
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.