Consumer News... For You! October 2020

State of Indiana sent this bulletin at 10/05/2020 06:43 PM EDT

Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor (OUCC)

DID YOU KNOW?

In the State of Indiana's most recent fiscal year, the OUCC's efforts helped reduce proposed utility rate increases by $458 million. For more facts and to learn more about the work we are doing on behalf of ratepayers, take a look at our newly issued Annual Report. It's available now on our website.

TIME IS LIMITED!

If you are behind on your utility bills and have not set up a payment plan, call the utility now to do so. IURC-regulated utilities would normally have to offer 3-month payment plans to customers facing arrearages. But through Oct. 12, they are required to offer payment plans with terms of at least 6 months. Some utilities are going beyond the minimum and offering 12-month arrangements.

Consumers needing financial assistance can call Indiana's 2-1-1 help line to be connected with local resources. Again, extended payment arrangements due to the COVID-19 pandemic are required through Oct. 12.

CASE UPDATES

This week's IURC hearing on Vectren's proposed solar energy tariff has been continued.
The Indiana Court of Appeals has set an Oct. 14 deadline for the OUCC's brief regarding the Duke Energy rate case.
An IURC public field hearing in the Crawfordsville Electric Light & Power rate case is set for Oct. 29. Written consumer comments are also invited.
The OUCC is recommending changes to the 5-year infrastructure plan proposed by Ohio Valley Gas.

SLAY THE ENERGY VAMPIRES!

Do you leave electronics and phone chargers plugged in when not using them? If you do, then energy vampires are lurking in your home. Standby power use, also referred to as phantom load, can add up to $200 per year to a typical US home's electric bills. An advanced power strip can go a long way in helping curb phantom load, and it can pay for itself quickly.

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.

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