| News Release |
 |
|
 |
|
|
|
Commission Launches Cascade Natural Gas General Rate Case
August 8, 2006 (2006 - 014)
Contacts: Lee Beyer, Chairman, 503 378-6611; Ray Baum, Commissioner, 503 378-6611; John Savage, Commissioner, 503 378-6611; Bob Valdez, Public Affairs Specialist, 503 378-8962
Salem, OR –The Oregon Public Utility Commission today launched a rate case proceeding for Cascade Natural Gas Company to determine if the company’s rates are too high.
After an audit of the utility, Commission staff concludes that Cascade should be brought in for a general rate case because it has consistently had excessive earnings for the past several years, and without a rate reduction, these over earnings would likely continue.
Based on its preliminary review, Commission staff believes customers’ rates could be reduced by 3.3%, or $2.3 million annually.
The proceeding will be much like a general rate case with a schedule to be determined by an Administrative Law Judge. A key difference is the burden of proof will be on Commission staff whereas in company-initiated rate cases the burden is on the company.
Cascade hasn’t had a general rate case since 1990.
Cascade serves about 51,049 customers primarily in Central Oregon.
--30--
Link to Commission staff memo regular agenda item 1. http://www.puc.state.or.us/PUC/meetings/pmemos/2006/080806/agenda.shtml.
|
|
|
|
