PUC Hears Testimony On Proposed Columbia Gas Increase

The Pennsylvania Public Utilities Commission held two public input hearings on Tuesday. In them, the public had the opportunity to voice their opinion on a proposed rate hike requested by Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania. Columbia Gas is seeking an increase in revenue of 15.79% or $124.1 million to distribute gas. If approved the average customer using 70 therms of gas would see a 15.88% monthly raise in rates. That would equate to approximately $19 per month. On April 4, the PUC unanimously voted 5-0 to investigate the proposed rate increase that was filed by Columbia Gas on March 15. Testimony was given by Richard Cuthbert, an asset management expert. He called into question Columbia Gas’ rate increases since 2006. He said their rates have increased 335% in those 18 years as opposed to the Consumer Price Index raises of 56% in the same period of time. He also questioned if infrastructure improvements promoted by Columbia Gas were indeed necessary. The public may still voice their opinion on telephonic meetings on May 22 at 1:00 and 6:00 PM. Registration is required at the PUC Office of Administrative Law Judge. Once the public input hearings are complete, telephonic evidentiary hearings will be held on July 31, August 1 and 2. The judge will render his decision in October. The PUC must deliver a final decision by December 14, 2024.