Enbridge Gas Ohio is proposing a raise in its natural gas charges for consumers in its Ohio service territory.
The average residential consumer would pay about $9.50 more per month if the raise is approved, according to a Ohio Consumers’ Counsel news release. This would be an increase of about 10% on customers’ total monthly bill.
Enbridge is also proposing changes to riders, additional charges on consumers’ bills.
The Beacon Journal has reached out to Enbridge seeking comment on its proposal.
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.
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.
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
