AARP fights proposed $164 million utility rate hike

The Oklahoma chapter of the AARP, previously often known as the American Association of Retired Persons, held a information convention to announce that it had despatched the Corporation Commission 7,000 postcards and petitions from those that oppose the proposed rate hike.

AARP Oklahoma President Jim Randall stated residents are watching each penny they spend as a result of costs proceed to rise.

“There is no doubt Oklahomans, especially those on fixed incomes, will have to make difficult decisions,” Randall stated.

Some must select amongst meals, medical care and “ridiculous” utility prices, Randall stated.

He referred to as on the three members of the Oklahoma Corporation Commission to cease the hike.

“The $164 million rate increase is ill-timed,” stated Sean Voskhul, AARP Oklahoma state director. “Quite frankly, it feels like déjà vu as we are talking about another rate hike by OG&E.”

OG&E’s largest buyer base is the Oklahoma City space, but it surely additionally offers service in Sapulpa, Glenpool, Bixby and elements of Jenks, in addition to different elements of the state.

Voskhul stated OG&E recorded vital earnings however nonetheless is requesting one other back-to-back rate enhance.

Voskhul stated AARP not solely is elevating the voices of its members who’re involved concerning the rate hike however is an intervenor within the rate case with OG&E.

The group’s lawyer, Deborah Thompson, stated the state must be taking a look at an $18 million rate lower, as an alternative.

“A big chunk of the request relates to an additional $60 million more per year in requested profit on top of the cost of operating the system,” she stated.

Another main situation is that OG&E is asking to boost its mounted buyer cost from $13 to $23, she stated.

“This is a payment you make regardless of how much electricity you use,” she defined.

The proposed rate enhance is along with the $10 a month rate enhance the Corporation Commission approved in December to cowl the price of the February 2021 winter climate occasion, she stated.

“The base rate review is separate from the securitization request that has been approved by the Commission and the Oklahoma Supreme Court to recover direct fuel and purchased power costs from the February 2021 Winter Weather Event,” in accordance with an announcement from OG&E.

“OG&E’s request addresses its continued efforts to execute its Grid Enhancement Plan,” the corporate stated within the assertion. “Established in 2020, the proposed five-year plan involves replacing and upgrading aging infrastructure and installing smarter and more automated technology platforms and communications systems.

“Together, these investments will improve the customer experience by reducing the number and duration of outages, while also modernizing the system. Also included in the review are technology infrastructure and weather hardening investments, and other transmission and generation improvements.”

If accredited, residential charges will enhance about $9.98 a month, efficient as early as July, in accordance with the corporate.

The hearings will begin June 14, Voskuhl stated.

There is a chance for public comment before the commission on Thursday, he stated.

Voskuhl stated the Corporation Commission might settle for, reject or modify the rate enhance after an administrative regulation decide points an opinion.