Press Release

PUC Approves Rate Increase for Armstrong County Natural Gas Company

Published on 8/17/2006

Filed under: Gas

HARRISBURG, Pa. – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today approved a base rate increase by Dunmire Gas Co.

The Commission voted 5-0 to approve the company’s base rate increase which raises rates by about $16,685 (38.2 percent). The total billing rate (base rate plus purchase gas cost rate) for the average customer using 85 Mcf a year will go from about $539 to about $788 a year. The new rates have an effective date of Aug. 18, 2006. This is the first rate increase for the company since 1994.

Dunmire’s reason for the rate increase was to restore the company’s rate of return to a more reasonable level, which reflects the current market conditions, and enable the company to generate revenue sufficient to pay ongoing operating expenses. While the company had announced a rate increase of about $14,349, during the course of the Commission's review, the company amended its proposal to a rate increase of about $17,995 (41.2 percent).  Dunmire serves about 66 customers in North Buffalo, East Franklin and Washington townships, Armstrong County.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission ensures safe, reliable and reasonably priced electric, natural gas, water, telephone and transportation service for Pennsylvania consumers, by regulating public utilities and by serving as stewards of competition. For recent news releases, or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.state.pa.us.

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Docket No. R-00061408

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