Northern Nevada PUC approves lower utility rates

NV Energy Inc., the parent firm of Sierra Pacific Power Co., says the rates approved will lower the monthly electric bill $7.21, to $98.22 for the average household.

Typical monthly gas bills will drop $5.84 to $70.41.

The new rates take effect October 1.

The Bureau of Consumer Protection, however, had sought an ever-larger decrease in electricity rates by urging the commission to refund to consumers more than $64 million in over charges collected by the utility to over its own power and fuel costs.