Press Release

PUC Approves Lower Rate Increase than Requested by Erie County Natural Gas Co.

Published on 12/18/2008

Filed under: Gas

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today approved a lower base rate increase than requested by North East Heat & Light Co.

The Commission voted 5-0 to allow the company to raise rates by $369,698 (8.2 percent). The company’s original request called for an increase of $500,318 (11.2 percent).

An average customer using 13.3 thousand cubic feet of natural gas a month will see their bill increase from $172.23 to $181.76 a month. Under the original proposal, the customers’ bill would have increased to $185.43 a month.

The company has 10 days to file the tariff to reflect the increase. If they fail to file the tariff, the Commission will begin an investigation into the proposed rate request.

North East serves about 2,965 residential, commercial and industrial customers in the township and borough of North East, Erie 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-2008-2038806

Contact:

• Press Secretary
  717-787-5722