Press Release

PUC to Investigate Base Rate Increase Request by Philadelphia Steam Heat Co.

Published on 8/27/2009

Filed under: Gas

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today voted to investigate a proposed increase in base rates of about $3.4 million for Trigen-Philadelphia Energy Corp.

The Commission voted 5-0 to investigate the proposed 7.06 percent increase in annual revenues. It is suspended for up to seven months until April 1, 2010, and will be assigned to the Office of Administrative Law Judge for public hearings and a recommended decision or settlement.  More information on the ratemaking process is available on the Commission’s website.

According to the company’s filing, the rate increase is needed to provide the necessary revenues to operate the steam system in a prudent, responsible manner; fund capital improvements to the steam system; and to perform the maintenance and repairs necessary to continue to improve upon the steam system’s efficiency and reliability. Trigen-Philadelphia serves about 275 commercial, government, institutional and hospitality customers and one residential customer in the central business district of Philadelphia.

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 website at www.puc.state.pa.us.

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Docket No. R-2009-2111011

Contact:

• Press Secretary
  717-787-5722