Rate Increase Sought For Switzerland County Natural Gas Co.

Customers of the gas utility can comment on the proposed rate hike before October 26.

(Switzerland County, Ind.) - A gas rate increase is proposed for customers of Switzerland County Natural Gas Company.

The gas utility wants to increase its usage rate, as well as the flat monthly residential service charge for its 680 customers in Switzerland and Jefferson counties.

According to the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor, Switzerland County Natural Gas’ pending request would raise its annual non-gas-cost operating revenues by approximately $83,700.

The impact on a customer’s bill would vary based on usage; however, the utility’s request would increase the flat, monthly residential customer charge from $10.86 to $13.00. The utility’s current base rates were approved in 2013.

According to its testimony, Switzerland County Natural Gas is seeking the increase due to higher operating and maintenance costs.

The proposed increase in this case would only apply to the utility’s base distribution rate, which comprises 50 to 55 percent of a typical Switzerland County Natural Gas residential customer’s monthly heating bill. Base distribution rates cover “non-gas” costs such as operating and maintenance expenses, and capital infrastructure improvements. The rest of a typical monthly heating bill pays for the natural gas itself, which the utility recovers on a dollar-for-dollar basis subject to OUCC review and IURC approval every six months.

The Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor is currently accepting public comment on the proposed rate hike through Friday, October 26. Consumers who wish to submit written comments for the case record may do so via the OUCC’s website at www.in.gov/oucc/2361.htm, by email at uccinfo@oucc.IN.gov, or by mail at: Consumer Services Staff Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor 115 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 South Indianapolis, IN 46204.

Comments should include the consumer’s name, mailing address, and a reference to “IURC Cause No. 45117.”

The OUCC expects a final decision on the rate increase to be made in 2019.