Press Release

PUC Approves Lower Rate Increase than Requested for NRG Energy Center

Published on 11/6/2008

Filed under: Gas

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today approved a settlement for a lower rate increase than requested for steam service by the NRG Energy Center Harrisburg, LLC (NRG Harrisburg). 

The Commission voted 5-0 to approve the settlement, which will increase the company’s annual revenues by about $1.1 million (28 percent).  Under the original proposal, the company had requested an annual increase in revenues of about $1.8 million (42 percent).  According to the settlement, customers’ total rates would increase by about 7.5 percent.  The settlement was reached between the company and the state’s Office of Consumer Advocate, the state’s Office of Small Business Advocate and the PUC’s Office of Trial Staff.  

According to NRG Harrisburg, the new rates will enable the company to cover its operating expenses and provide a revenue stream that will allow NRG Harrisburg to fund new investment that enhances system reliability and efficiency.  Virtually all of the new investments made since its 1995 rate increase are intended to increase energy efficiency.

NRG Harrisburg owns and operates the steam plant which has provided steam service to approximately 232 residential, industrial, commercial and governmental customers located in the city of Harrisburg, Dauphin 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-2008-2028395

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