Consumer News... For You! February 2022

If you've ever wondered why your natural gas bill includes a "supply charge" or a "delivery charge," you're not alone. The OUCC frequently receives consumer questions about gas bill line items, especially during the winter. We have put together a brief video answering those questions and covering what the charges are about.

The OUCC has filed testimony in the Northern Indiana Public Service Co. (NIPSCO) gas rate case, along with more than 1,100 written consumer comments. NIPSCO's proposal would raise the monthly residential gas customer charge from $14.00 to $24.50. The OUCC recommends limiting the charge to $15.75 while significantly limiting the proposed increase on the same charge for small commercial customers. Total gas revenues would rise by roughly half of NIPSCO's request under the OUCC's recommendations. A Commission order is expected later this year.

ADDITIONAL CASE UPDATES 

Energy

• Closing briefs will be filed in the weeks ahead on CenterPoint Energy's proposal to build a new, gas-fired power plant in Posey County. A Commission order is expected later this year.
• The Indiana Court of Appeals has reversed & remanded the IURC order on CenterPoint Energy's excess distributed generation tariff.
• A procedural schedule in the subdocket reviewing the forced outage at AES Indiana's Eagle Valley generating station is due by the end of March. 
• Quarterly gas cost adjustments were recently approved for CenterPoint Energy Indiana South, Community Natural Gas Co., Indiana Natural Gas Corp., & Sycamore Gas Co.

Water/Wastewater

• OUCC testimony in the American Suburban Utilities (ASU) rate case is due on Apr. 5. Consumer comments are invited through Mar. 30. The flat, monthly residential sewer rate would rise from $59.08 to $99.66 under the utility's request. ASU provides service near West Lafayette.
• Comments are invited on Community Utilities of Indiana's proposed rate increases, with OUCC testimony due on Apr. 26. CUII serves portions of 4 northwest Indiana counties. Average water & sewer rates for most customers would rise to $82.60 & $95.83, respectively, under the utility's request.
• An IURC public field hearing on Doe Creek Sewer Utility's rate request will be set at a date and location to be determined.

February 11 (2/11) is 2-1-1 Day in Indiana & throughout the nation. If you need financial assistance with utility bills or assistance on a wide range of additional matters, the state's 2-1-1 helpline can put you in touch with state and local resources. The service is available 24/7. Reaching it is as simple as dialing the three-digit code or calling 1-866-211-9966.

The OUCC offers tips, case updates, & more on social media: Facebook Twitter Instagram LinkedIn  YouTube

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.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, or YouTube.

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.