Press Release

PUC Investigates Gas Rate Increase for Pike County Natural Gas Customers

Published on 9/11/2008

Filed under: Gas

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today voted to investigate a proposed base rate increase of $424,900 for customers of Pike County Light & Power Company – Gas Division. 

The Commission voted 5-0 to investigate the company’s proposal that would increase the monthly bill for an average residential customer using 10 Mcf per month from $143.23 a month to $176.31 a month (23.1 percent).

The Commission will assign the case to the Office of Administrative Law Judge for a Recommended Decision.  The Commission has until April 16, 2009, to make its final decision.  More information on the ratemaking process is available on the Commission’s Web site.

The company provides gas service to approximately 1,200 residential and commercial gas customers in Pike County.  According to the company’s filing, the increase is necessary to provide sufficient operating revenues to meet operating expenses (including depreciation), taxes and fixed charges, and provide a reasonable rate of return on the Company’s investment in gas property.

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-2008-2046520

Contact:

• Press Secretary
  717-787-5722