Consumer News... For You! The OUCC's May 2019 Newsletter
State of Indiana sent this bulletin at 05/10/2019 02:20 PM EDT
MAY 2019
ENJOY MAY AND STAY SAFE!
With racing, graduations, Mother's Day, unpredictable weather, and so much more, there is no other month like May. But did you know that May is also National Electrical Safety Month? Make sure you know how to shut off power at your home or business in an emergency, and take a look at any extension cords you have. Don't overload them. And If they're cracked or frayed, throw them out. Roughly 3,300 fires ignite each year due to faulty or misused extension cords, according to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI).
VECTREN ELECTRIC GENERATION
In a case closely watched throughout the electric industry, the IURC recently denied Vectren's proposal to build a new 850-megawatt natural gas-fired power plant. The OUCC recommended denial, with testimony saying other options for meeting the utility's future power needs should be considered. The Commission order approved Vectren's request to add new emissions technology at its largest coal-fired generation unit. Hundreds of consumers offered comments in the case, including those who spoke at the Commission's public field hearing in Evansville last summer.
MORE CASE UPDATES
The OUCC recently recommended approval of Northern Indiana Public Service Company's (NIPSCO's) requested purchased power agreements with three proposed wind generation facilities, while recommending changes to the utility's proposal for part-ownership at one of the sites. The agreements will provide more than 800 megawatts of electricity if approved.
Grant applications are invited through June 17, 2019 for clean air projects aimed at reducing the state's diesel emissions. Awards to public and private entities though the Indiana Volkswagen Mitigation Trust Program will range from $50,000 to $2 million. The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) is receiving applications and offers more information online.
SERVING AS A RESOURCE
It was a cold and wet day for April's Earth Day Indiana Festival. But the weather didn't dampen the enthusiasm for consumers who attended. The OUCC offers an information table each year at Earth Day, along with other events. If you know of an event we should take part in, let us know! We're also available to speak to groups and organizations at no charge.
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.
