Enbridge Gas Ohio has filed for an increase in its base rate natural gas charges for consumers in its Ohio service territory.
If approved by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, a residential customer’s total bill would raise by about 8.8% or $7.60, according to an Enbridge representative.
Why is Enbridge Gas Ohio proposing an increase in charges?
The company has had significant increases in operation and maintenance costs, an Enbridge representative said in a statement late Monday, Aug. 3.
Since 2007, it has invested more than $5.7 billion of capital in system infrastructure, and it has not yet recovered $1.1 billion of this in natural gas distribution rates.
“We know affordability is important to our customers, which is why we’re committed to keeping costs fair and reasonable and believe every home deserves access to affordable energy,” the representative said.
The statement said Enbridge customers benefit from its “robust system,” which includes abundant natural gas on its system from the Utica Basin supply, natural gas production receipt points, access to major interstate pipelines and over 60 Energy Choice program suppliers and supply offerings.
“Affordability is supported by this system, which requires routine maintenance and investment,” the statement said. “Enbridge Gas Ohio wants to ensure we can continue to invest in our natural gas system, including investing in pipeline maintenance, pipeline replacement projects, meter replacement, and operational asset upgrades.”
Enbridge provides short- and long-term payment plans, as well as energy assistance.
Ohio Consumers’ Counsel intervening in the case
Enbridge is also proposing changes to riders, additional charges on consumers’ bills, according to a Ohio Consumers’ Counsel news release.
There are approximately 1.1 million Enbridge Gas Ohio residential utility consumers, the release said.
The Ohio Consumers’ Counsel has intervened in the case to represent the Ohio consumers.
It is opposed to the increases in fixed charges because they must be paid every month, even if a consumer uses little or no gas, cannot be reduced by conserving energy and make up a larger share of total bills, the release said.
How to speak with a commissioner
Consumers can attend local public hearings to share their views directly with a Public Utilities Commission of Ohio commissioner. These officials will decide the case.
There is a public hearing scheduled for 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 6, at the Akron-Summit County Public Library at 60 S. High St.
There are others scheduled for Aug. 19 in Cleveland at the Frank J. Lausche State Office Building, at 615 W. Superior Ave., and for Aug. 31 in Lima at the Lima Public Library at 650 W. Market St.
Public comments can also be submitted online.
This story has been updated with additional information, comment from Enbridge Ohio and the correct amount of extra money the average residential consumer would pay per month if the raise is approved.
This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Public hearings scheduled to dispute proposed Enbridge Gas Ohio bill hike
Reporting by Lauren Cohen, Akron Beacon Journal / Akron Beacon Journal
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Lauren Cohen, Akron Beacon Journal | USA TODAY Network
