Utility seeks lower rates in Arkansas

ARKANSAS - Lower electricity rates for Arkansas customers of Southwest Electric Power Co. would result if the state Public Service Commission approves a new schedule of fuel factors filed with the commission, the company said.

But SWEPCO already has pending before the commission a general rate-increase request that would offset the lower rates stemming from cheaper fuel.

The lower fuel factors stem mostly from lower natural gas prices, SWEPCO said in a news release. If approved by the PSC, the rate cut would take effect March 30 and run through 2010, according to the release.

The Shreveport, La.-based company serves about 135,000 customers in Arkansas.

The company said the new fuel factors would result in a drop of about $13.30 per month, or about 15 percent, for Arkansas residential customers using 1,000 kilowatt-hours per month.

On Feb. 19, SWEPCO filed a request with the PSC for a 17.7 percent rate increase totaling about $53.9 million. The utility, a subsidiary of American Electric Power based at Columbus, Ohio, said $28.6 million of the requested increase would be to recover financing costs from a $2 billion coal-fired power plant that is under construction in Hempstead County and from a plant being built in Louisiana.

The other $25.3 million would cover expanded infrastructure and "ongoing operating costs."

If Arkansas regulators approve the rate hike, it would go into effect later this year or in early 2010. SWEPCO said the rate increase would cost the average ratepayer an additional $15.43 per month.

Related News

expanding-ev-charging-in-condos

Expanding EV Charging Infrastructure in Calgary's Apartments and Condos

CALGARY - As the demand for electric vehicles (EVs) continues to rise, Calgary is taking significant strides to enhance its charging infrastructure, particularly in apartment and condominium complexes. A recent initiative has been introduced to facilitate the installation of EV charging stations in these residential buildings, addressing a critical barrier for potential EV owners living in multi-unit dwellings.

The Growing EV Market

Electric vehicles are no longer a niche market; they have become a mainstream option for many consumers. As of late 2023, EV sales have surged, with projections indicating that the trend will only continue. However, a significant challenge…

READ MORE

Ontario energy minister asks for early report exploring a halt to natural gas power generation

READ MORE

schott-powers-german-plants-with-green-electricity

Schott Powers German Plants with Green Electricity

READ MORE

bc ferries hybrid ship

BC Ferries celebrates addition of hybrid ships

READ MORE

German official says nuclear would do little to solve gas issue

READ MORE