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Iowa Governor Asks Utility To Hold Off On Electric Rate Increases | in News Departments > Policy Watch | by Michael Bates on Thursday 18 March 2010   |
Iowa Gov. Chet Culver has requested that Interstate Power and Light (IPL) delay an electrical rate increase until customers are allowed to offer input at a public hearing.
In a letter to the utility, the governor wrote that the increase had not been approved by the Iowa Utilities Board and would create "a ripple effect throughout local economies."
"The timing of the rate increase comes when many of IPL's customers are already struggling with budgetary decisions," Culver wrote. "This action impedes the ability of those customers to make rational, longer-term financial plans."
In its response to the governor's letter, IPL said it would implement temporary new electric rates on March 20.
"We appreciate your concerns on behalf of our customers, as we also recognize the cost impact that any change in our electric rates can have," stated Tom Aller, president of IPL.
As part of IPL's request to change its Iowa rates, the company is proposing a customer cost management plan designed to reduce the impact of the rate increase. To implement this plan, IPL will need approval from the Iowa Utilities Board. | | ******* Don't miss the latest smart grid news -- register to receive Renew Grid's news headlines. |
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