Press Release

PUC Investigates PECO Energy Co. Rate Increase Request

Published on 5/22/2008

Filed under: Gas

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today voted to investigate a proposed annual rate increase of $98.3 million (11.2 percent) for gas service by PECO Energy Co. 

The Commission voted 4-0 to investigate the company’s proposal that increases the monthly bill for an average customer using 8 Mcf per month from $118.03 a month to $130.82 a month (10.8 percent). 

The Commission has assigned the case to a PUC Administrative Law Judge for a Recommended Decision.  The Commission has until December 30, 2008, to make its final decision at a Public Meeting in Harrisburg. 

According to the company’s filing, the proposed increase is needed to invest in the natural gas infrastructure to ensure safe and reliable service.  The proposed gas distribution system improvements will include 25 capacity expansion projects, such as replacing smaller underground gas mains with larger diameter pipe to allow for increased load and increasing distribution pressure.  The company will also complete 86 projects to replace older cast iron and bare steel distribution lines.  The company’s last base rate increase was in April of 1987.

PECO Energy provides gas services to approximately 439,924 residential and 41,314 commercial and industrial customers in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery Counties, and a portion of Lancaster County. 

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities to ensure safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protect the public interest; educate consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; further economic development; and foster new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner. 

For recent news releases, audio of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our Web site at www.puc.state.pa.us. 

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Docket No. R-2008-2028394

Contact:

• Denise McCracken
  Senior Communications Specialist
  717-787-5722
  demccracken@pa.gov