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City by the Lake.org, The Voice of Michigan City, Indiana _ City at rest _ NIPSCO Gas Prices
Posted by: JHeath Oct 5 2007, 10:47 AM
http://www.heraldargus.com/archives/ha/display.php?id=386543
QUOTE
Natural-gas costs decrease for October
10/05/2007, 10:47 am
The Northern Indiana Public Service Company (NIPSCO) announced Thursday that natural-gas costs for October decreased compared to last month, mainly due to a decrease in wholesale natural-gas prices.
NIPSCO residential customers will see a decrease in natural-gas costs of 7.4 percent in October compared to September. The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) approved the adjustment, subject to refund. A typical NIPSCO residential customer using 100 therms of natural gas should expect a decrease of approximately $8.24 from September’s statement in their October billing, although total bill amounts will vary as a result of actual consumption.
10/05/2007, 10:47 am
The Northern Indiana Public Service Company (NIPSCO) announced Thursday that natural-gas costs for October decreased compared to last month, mainly due to a decrease in wholesale natural-gas prices.
NIPSCO residential customers will see a decrease in natural-gas costs of 7.4 percent in October compared to September. The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) approved the adjustment, subject to refund. A typical NIPSCO residential customer using 100 therms of natural gas should expect a decrease of approximately $8.24 from September’s statement in their October billing, although total bill amounts will vary as a result of actual consumption.
Posted by: Roger Kaputnik Oct 8 2007, 03:47 PM
This is why I do not lock in rates. By the way, which months do you think have the highest gas use?
Posted by: southsider2k7 Oct 9 2007, 06:08 AM
QUOTE(Roger Kaputnik @ Oct 8 2007, 04:47 PM) 
This is why I do not lock in rates. By the way, which months do you think have the highest gas use?
I would imagine Jan and Feb, right?
Posted by: JHeath Oct 9 2007, 08:50 AM
QUOTE(Roger Kaputnik @ Oct 8 2007, 04:47 PM)
This is why I do not lock in rates. By the way, which months do you think have the highest gas use?
This may actually vary by customer...depending on whether or not you use a fireplace or other heat sources.
You can check your previous NIPSCO bills online through their website. It's actually a really nice feature.
Posted by: Ang Oct 9 2007, 11:34 AM
QUOTE(JHeath @ Oct 9 2007, 08:50 AM)
This may actually vary by customer...depending on whether or not you use a fireplace or other heat sources.
You can check your previous NIPSCO bills online through their website. It's actually a really nice feature.
NIPSCO has a nice feature? I'm amazed....
I say, on the average February has the most usage.
Posted by: southsider2k7 Oct 9 2007, 11:35 AM
My favorite NIPSCO feature is charging you $5.95 to pay your bill on line by debit/credit card. Yes they charge you extra to get your money from you quicker. Needless to say, that is one of the few checks that I write each month.
Posted by: Roger Kaputnik Oct 9 2007, 12:36 PM
February, with Jan about 85% of Feb.
Posted by: Ang Oct 9 2007, 03:00 PM
QUOTE(Roger Kaputnik @ Oct 9 2007, 12:36 PM)
February, with Jan about 85% of Feb.
Is that the answer or your guess?
Posted by: Roger Kaputnik Oct 11 2007, 11:27 AM
From my bills over last few years
Posted by: JHeath Jul 2 2008, 11:58 AM
http://nwi.com/articles/2008/07/02/news/top_news/doce9b871d2cc1161c186257479007cafe7.txt
QUOTE
NIPSCO gas bills spike again
BY KEITH BENMAN
kbenman@nwitimes.com
219.933.3326 | Wednesday, July 02, 2008 | 20 comment(s)
The price NIPSCO charges residential customers for natural gas will go up 14.8 percent this month, following a nationwide spike in natural gas prices.
It is the fourth consecutive month NIPSCO's fee has increased by double digits.
Last week, the U.S. Energy Information Agency announced natural gas prices nationwide had broken historical records, surpassing even those in the wake of Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
Mike Watson, vice president of energy supply services for NiSource, the parent company of NIPSCO, told state regulators last week that natural gas has "piggybacked" on the precipitous rise in crude oil prices and he doesn't foresee a decline before next spring.
The U.S. Energy Information Agency is predicting this winter's natural gas prices will be a whopping 52 percent higher than last winter's, when prices averaged $7.17 per thousand cubic feet.
A weekly natural gas update from the agency last week pinned much of the blame on increased investments in commodities by speculators and others.
The report noted since the beginning of the year the price of natural gas has increased 63 percent at a key transmission hub.
Such utilities as NIPSCO pass increases in wholesale prices along to customers through a monthly cost adjustment approved by state regulators.
A typical NIPSCO customer using 50 therms of natural gas this month will see an increase of $14.42 in the NIPSCO bill. Actual increases for individual customers will depend on use.
BY KEITH BENMAN
kbenman@nwitimes.com
219.933.3326 | Wednesday, July 02, 2008 | 20 comment(s)
The price NIPSCO charges residential customers for natural gas will go up 14.8 percent this month, following a nationwide spike in natural gas prices.
It is the fourth consecutive month NIPSCO's fee has increased by double digits.
Last week, the U.S. Energy Information Agency announced natural gas prices nationwide had broken historical records, surpassing even those in the wake of Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
Mike Watson, vice president of energy supply services for NiSource, the parent company of NIPSCO, told state regulators last week that natural gas has "piggybacked" on the precipitous rise in crude oil prices and he doesn't foresee a decline before next spring.
The U.S. Energy Information Agency is predicting this winter's natural gas prices will be a whopping 52 percent higher than last winter's, when prices averaged $7.17 per thousand cubic feet.
A weekly natural gas update from the agency last week pinned much of the blame on increased investments in commodities by speculators and others.
The report noted since the beginning of the year the price of natural gas has increased 63 percent at a key transmission hub.
Such utilities as NIPSCO pass increases in wholesale prices along to customers through a monthly cost adjustment approved by state regulators.
A typical NIPSCO customer using 50 therms of natural gas this month will see an increase of $14.42 in the NIPSCO bill. Actual increases for individual customers will depend on use.
Posted by: Roger Kaputnik Jul 2 2008, 01:09 PM
Everyone seems to be jacking up prices, and though transportation fuel costs have risen, overall prices seem to be moving north faster. I smell places taking advantage of the gas price shock to cover their own price increases.
Posted by: Dave Jul 2 2008, 03:30 PM
QUOTE
The U.S. Energy Information Agency is predicting this winter's natural gas prices will be a whopping 52 percent higher than last winter's, when prices averaged $7.17 per thousand cubic feet.
OMFG.
Posted by: southsider2k7 Jul 3 2008, 06:19 AM
QUOTE(Dave @ Jul 2 2008, 04:30 PM)
OMFG.
For someone who works in futures trading, I believe that might be low...
Posted by: Roger Kaputnik Jul 3 2008, 09:57 AM
And no woodburners are allowed in this county.
Posted by: Dave Jul 3 2008, 11:08 AM
QUOTE(southsider2k7 @ Jul 3 2008, 07:19 AM)
For someone who works in futures trading, I believe that might be low...
So you're saying natural gas prices are going to go up by more than 50% in a year?
Now I seem to recall natural gas isn't a commodity that gets shipped overseas too much -- tankers for moving it are not at all common, the stuff doesn't give a good return for transportation cost, whatever -- my point being that natural gas is for the most part domesticalloy produced and domestically consumed.
So, what's happened? Has supply dropped off, driving prices higher? Has (domestic) demand spiked, driving prices higher? Is natural gas being used in some applications where oil was being used before, driving prices higher?
Or is this another "Enron loophole" event? Any chance that there are going to be natural gas shortages as there were brownouts and rolling blackouts in California when Ken Lay and Skilling et al were screwing everyone out there?
Posted by: southsider2k7 Jul 3 2008, 11:25 AM
QUOTE(Dave @ Jul 3 2008, 12:08 PM)
So you're saying natural gas prices are going to go up by more than 50% in a year?
Now I seem to recall natural gas isn't a commodity that gets shipped overseas too much -- tankers for moving it are not at all common, the stuff doesn't give a good return for transportation cost, whatever -- my point being that natural gas is for the most part domesticalloy produced and domestically consumed.
So, what's happened? Has supply dropped off, driving prices higher? Has (domestic) demand spiked, driving prices higher? Is natural gas being used in some applications where oil was being used before, driving prices higher?
Or is this another "Enron loophole" event? Any chance that there are going to be natural gas shortages as there were brownouts and rolling blackouts in California when Ken Lay and Skilling et al were screwing everyone out there?
The futures prices are up more than 50% over last year IIRC.
Supply all comes from crude, and demand hasn't waned at all.
Posted by: JHeath Jul 3 2008, 12:09 PM
QUOTE(southsider2k7 @ Jul 3 2008, 12:25 PM)
The futures prices are up more than 50% over last year IIRC.
Supply all comes from crude, and demand hasn't waned at all.
Oaky...I'm going to show my lack of knowledge on the production of natural gas...but it comes form crude oil?
Never mind...I found an educational http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natural_gas.
Posted by: Dave Jul 3 2008, 04:41 PM
QUOTE(southsider2k7 @ Jul 3 2008, 12:25 PM)
The futures prices are up more than 50% over last year IIRC.
Supply all comes from crude, and demand hasn't waned at all.
QUOTE(JHeath @ Jul 3 2008, 01:09 PM)
Oaky...I'm going to show my lack of knowledge on the production of natural gas...but it comes form crude oil?
Never mind...I found an educational http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natural_gas.
Not exactly from crude -- crude oil isn't processed into natural gas like crude is processed into gasoline. Natural gas is basically a by-product of oil drilling. Some places where they drill for oil, they find it most cost effective to just burn off the natural gas -- not economical to put it in a pipeline, and can't just vent it due to possible explosions and fire.
And the link says natural gas comes not only from oil fields, but from natural gas fields (where it isn't associated with oil) and coal beds as well. And "biogas" from sources such as landfills.
Posted by: Ang Jul 3 2008, 05:59 PM
Wyoming has a natural gas supply due to the fact that it's rich in coal and oil.
Our gas company is Source Gas www.sourcegas.com
We have a separate electric company, Rocky Mountain Power. Lots of houses around here don't even have gas connected, they are totally electric. I don't know why, but I hate it cause I hate cooking on an electric stove. One of the main reasons I chose the house I live in is because it has a gas stove.
Posted by: Roger Kaputnik Jul 4 2008, 09:02 AM
The US has huge NG resources but they are not exploited as thoroughly as they could be. The laissez-faire policy of this Administration has led to more drilling and so on, but it is having a negative impact on wildlife, which is negative for hunters, and for the econ impact the outdoors sports brings to the area.
Posted by: Ang Jul 4 2008, 12:32 PM
That is why the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) in Wyoming is very strict with miners and drillers.
Posted by: Roger Kaputnik Jul 5 2008, 10:20 AM
I have read that the tremendous increase of road networks to the new fields has (not will) affected wildlife. For example, mule deer are staying in higher ranges all summer. I think Field and Stream had a big article about this.
Posted by: Ang Jul 5 2008, 01:38 PM
My bro-in-law was talking about the same thing. There is an elk reserve just outside of Jackson Hole and less and less elk come there, they are staying up high to avoid the noise and pollution of mining and drilling.
On the other hand, we've had a lot more wildlife in town walking the streets and eating the foliage in peoples yards. It's crazy in Casper. I was driving down the main drag the other night and had to stop for antelope crossing.
Can you imagine driving down south Franklin and having to stop for half a dozen deer to cross the road?
Posted by: Roger Kaputnik Jul 7 2008, 08:36 AM
A little disruption seems to make a big diff to the beasts.
Posted by: southsider2k7 Jul 28 2008, 09:00 AM
http://thenewsdispatch.com/main.asp?SectionID=50&SubSectionID=75&ArticleID=16245&TM=39647.15
QUOTE
Natural Gas Prices Going Up
Consumers should expect dramatically higher natural gas prices this winter. While it is too early for Indiana natural gas utilities to predict the exact impact on heating bills, the trend in the competitive national market is cause for serious concern. National wholesale natural gas prices are very close to the all-time records set in the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005.
In addition, current NYMEX futures costs are substantially higher than previous records for July - the time most gas utilities throughout the nation are filling winter storage supplies.
Useful tips at www.IN.gov/OUCC and energy audit tools on various utility Web sites can help consumers reduce consumption and better manage their bills. Natural gas and electric utilities offer budget billing options that can provide consumers with greater predictability when planning.
I encourage consumers to keep the communication lines open with their utilities, especially if facing a financial hardship. If a particular bill cannot be paid in full and on time, it is crucial that the consumer contact the utility immediately to make payment arrangements to ensure costs are managed during the heating season.
A. David Stippler
Indiana Utility Consumer Counselor
Consumers should expect dramatically higher natural gas prices this winter. While it is too early for Indiana natural gas utilities to predict the exact impact on heating bills, the trend in the competitive national market is cause for serious concern. National wholesale natural gas prices are very close to the all-time records set in the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005.
In addition, current NYMEX futures costs are substantially higher than previous records for July - the time most gas utilities throughout the nation are filling winter storage supplies.
Useful tips at www.IN.gov/OUCC and energy audit tools on various utility Web sites can help consumers reduce consumption and better manage their bills. Natural gas and electric utilities offer budget billing options that can provide consumers with greater predictability when planning.
I encourage consumers to keep the communication lines open with their utilities, especially if facing a financial hardship. If a particular bill cannot be paid in full and on time, it is crucial that the consumer contact the utility immediately to make payment arrangements to ensure costs are managed during the heating season.
A. David Stippler
Indiana Utility Consumer Counselor
Posted by: Roger Kaputnik Jul 28 2008, 10:58 AM
More suction on the biggest commodity around, the personal income of American working people.
Posted by: JHeath Aug 4 2008, 12:11 PM
http://www.southbendtribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080804/News01/421115043/1130/Sports01
QUOTE
August 04. 2008 1:36PM
NIPSCO to cut natural gas costs for August
Tribune Staff Report
MERRILLVILLE, Ind. — The Northern Indiana Public Service Co. said natural gas costs for August decreased compared with last month, due mainly to a decrease in wholesale natural gas prices as compared with the previous month.
NIPSCO residential customers will see a decrease in natural gas costs of 12.17 percent when compared with July.
A typical NIPSCO residential customer using 50 therms of natural gas should expect a decrease of about $13.61 from last month’s statement in the August billing, although total bill amounts will vary as a result of actual consumption.
NIPSCO to cut natural gas costs for August
Tribune Staff Report
MERRILLVILLE, Ind. — The Northern Indiana Public Service Co. said natural gas costs for August decreased compared with last month, due mainly to a decrease in wholesale natural gas prices as compared with the previous month.
NIPSCO residential customers will see a decrease in natural gas costs of 12.17 percent when compared with July.
A typical NIPSCO residential customer using 50 therms of natural gas should expect a decrease of about $13.61 from last month’s statement in the August billing, although total bill amounts will vary as a result of actual consumption.
Posted by: Dave Aug 4 2008, 12:16 PM
I wish I could store about 6 months worth of NG somehow. It would be nice to "tank up" now in preparation for winter.
Posted by: kharris Aug 4 2008, 12:17 PM
QUOTE(JHeath @ Aug 4 2008, 01:11 PM)
http://www.southbendtribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080804/News01/421115043/1130/Sports01
I have told by a NIPSCO executive to expect a significant increase in natural gas rates this winter. In this case significant is equal to 20%-30%.
Posted by: JHeath Aug 4 2008, 12:27 PM
So do you think that now might be a good time to sign up for their price protection products/services?
Posted by: Roger Kaputnik Aug 4 2008, 12:28 PM
VERY short term, maybe.
Posted by: kharris Aug 4 2008, 12:58 PM
QUOTE(JHeath @ Aug 4 2008, 01:27 PM)
So do you think that now might be a good time to sign up for their price protection products/services?
I am always afraid in getting locked into a rate and then have the rates go down (though I don't know that would be the case here). I will be taking steps to button up the house in order to use less gas rather than try to lock in a lower rate.
Posted by: Roger Kaputnik Aug 4 2008, 01:04 PM
My sentiments exactamundo.
Posted by: JHeath Aug 4 2008, 01:18 PM
QUOTE(kharris @ Aug 4 2008, 01:58 PM)
I am always afraid in getting locked into a rate and then have the rates go down (though I don't know that would be the case here). I will be taking steps to button up the house in order to use less gas rather than try to lock in a lower rate.
I have that same fear. But, isn't there a product where you pay a fee for the promise that you won't be charged more than a certain amount per therm? I have to wonder if it's really worth the extra fee.
Posted by: kharris Aug 4 2008, 02:55 PM
QUOTE(JHeath @ Aug 4 2008, 02:18 PM)
I have that same fear. But, isn't there a product where you pay a fee for the promise that you won't be charged more than a certain amount per therm? I have to wonder if it's really worth the extra fee.
I have had quite a few folks knocking on the door in the past few weeks offering some kind of service that one could sign up for to lock in gas rates. They claim that they are "not here to sell anything". I never allowed them to stay long enough to hear the offer ... I'm just that skeptical that way ....
As far as a service or product for fee .... I'm really not usre.
Posted by: kharris Aug 4 2008, 02:56 PM
QUOTE(kharris @ Aug 4 2008, 03:55 PM)
I have had quite a few folks knocking on the door in the past few weeks offering some kind of service that one could sign up for to lock in gas rates. They claim that they are "not here to sell anything". I never allowed them to stay long enough to hear the offer ... I'm just that skeptical that way ....
As far as a service or product for fee .... I'm really not usre.
That really should be sure
Posted by: Dave Aug 4 2008, 03:25 PM
QUOTE(kharris @ Aug 4 2008, 03:55 PM)
I have had quite a few folks knocking on the door in the past few weeks offering some kind of service that one could sign up for to lock in gas rates. They claim that they are "not here to sell anything". I never allowed them to stay long enough to hear the offer ... I'm just that skeptical that way ....
As far as a service or product for fee .... I'm really not usre.
If they don't have NIPSCO photo ID, I'd bet they're scammers.
Posted by: Roger Kaputnik Aug 4 2008, 04:16 PM
I think there are some legit actors, but the fear of getting taken is usually greater than the fear of NIPSCo's rates.
Posted by: southsider2k7 Aug 5 2008, 06:37 AM
QUOTE(kharris @ Aug 4 2008, 03:55 PM)
I have had quite a few folks knocking on the door in the past few weeks offering some kind of service that one could sign up for to lock in gas rates. They claim that they are "not here to sell anything". I never allowed them to stay long enough to hear the offer ... I'm just that skeptical that way ....
As far as a service or product for fee .... I'm really not usre.
Me too. I pretty much blow them off as well.
Posted by: JHeath Aug 13 2008, 02:33 PM
I don't know about anyone else, but I'm still thinking about this. It might be a long winter...and could get expensive. I'm wonodering if it's worth the extra few dollars a month to "cap" the costs on natural gas prices.
http://www.pps.nipsco.com/capped.asp
QUOTE
This option guarantees your Gas Commodity charge will not exceed a pre-set amount for each therm you use for one full year, regardless of how high market prices rise. Each month, your Commodity charge will reflect either your Capped Price or the market price - whichever is lower. Your Commodity charge may fluctuate below the cap, but you'll be secure knowing it will never exceed the cap level you signed up for. Your Gas Commodity charge does not include your Gas Delivery charge, or other Gas Supply charges such as Interstate Transportation and Storage charges - these are shown separately on your bill.
There is a service fee with this option
Example Calculations below show how the PPS Capped Price Option works:
Capped Price Option - Example: Capped Price = $1.20/therm;
Residential Capped Price Service Fee = $9.99
Commercial Capped Price Service Fee = $0.12/therm
Month A: Current GCA Price = $1.30/therm
Your Capped Price Commodity Charge would be used to calculate your gas commodity charge. Assuming you use 100 therms of gas, your Commodity charge would be:
(100 therms x $1.20) = $120.00
Month B: Current GCA Price = $1.00/therm
The current GCA Price would be used to calculate your Commodity charges. Assuming you use 100 therms of gas, your Commodity charge would be:
(100 therms x $1.00) = $100.00
Your additional PPS Capped Monthly Service Fee would be a fixed charge of $9.99, if you are a residential customer.
Your additional PPS Capped Monthly Service Fee would be calculated as follows, if you are a commercial customer:
(100 therms x $0.12) = $12.00
Remember – Your Gas Delivery and other Gas Supply charges will still be billed separately, whether or not you choose PPS. The Delivery portion of your bill experiences very little fluctuation on a per therm basis. The Interstate Transportation and Storage charges are reviewed and updated on a regular basis. The values used in the Example Calculations above are for demonstration purposes only, and do not reflect current PPS Capped option pricing and fees.
Posted by: ANDYT Aug 16 2008, 08:50 AM
MY NAME IS ANDY.
I WORK FOR A NATURAL GAS SUPPLIER.
i do not recommend signing up for any fixed rate plan on your NIPSCO gas service,because you have no control over your price,and there is a cancellation fee,usually $150.
when the rates historically drop in April back down to .75,youll still be paying that higher price.
NIPSCO HAS a PLAN CALLED THE PPS PLAN THAT GIVE YOU A FIXED RATE,BUT YOU PAY AN ADDITIONAL FEE,i believe it is $9.99 a month.
if you dont use any gas,you still get hit for $9.99.
what i recommend is a monthly program available to NIPSCO customers until January that freezes your rate at $1.39.
this program has no contract,no cancellation fee.if the rates on the natural gas open market crash below $1.39(which i seriously doubt),you can cancel right out with no fee.
after January,if the rate changes,you are notified 45 days before you use that month's gas supply.
for example,if the March rate is going to be below $1.39 on the gas market,you are notified in January if the rate changes,so you can cancel out of the program.
if interested in this program,email me,and ill give you the information necessary to enroll.
the doorknockers that you discuss work for a company called US Energy.they are right now being sued by the state of Illinois,and in a class action suit as well for fraud.
if these doorknockers see your gas bill,they will write your account number down,then go get your meter number off of your actual meter on the house,and slam you with another supplier on your bill,at a inflated rate.
DO NOT LET THESE PEOPLE SEE YOUR GAS BILL!!!!
Posted by: southsider2k7 Sep 3 2008, 01:01 PM
http://thenewsdispatch.com/main.asp?SectionID=1&SubSectionID=1&ArticleID=17098&TM=54181.64
QUOTE
NIPSCO seeks 15% rate hike
Associated Press
MERRILLVILLE, Ind. (AP) - Northern Indiana Public Service Co. is seeking a pair of rate hikes that could boost residential utility bills nearly 15 percent by 2010.
Representatives of the Merrillville-based utility told the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission on Friday that the rate increases are needed to cover increased operating and maintenance costs, and to bring the Sugar Creek generating facility in Terre Haute on line.
Hammond Mayor Tom McDermott Jr., who opposes the increases, said customers deserve a rate cut.
"In a time like this, where people are paying $4 for a gallon of gas and people losing their homes and jobs, it's ridiculous for a company to be asking for any increase," he told the IURC.
Last month, McDermott and LaPorte County attorney Shaw Friedman announced their intent to oppose NIPSCO's proposed rate increase before the IURC.
Hearings on the case will start on Jan. 6 with a public hearing set for sometime early in the year. The IURC will make the final ruling on the rates, and NIPSCO will receive a final decision in late 2009 or early 2010.
NIPSCO spokesman Nick Meyer said the proposed rate structure reflects the cost to serve each customer group. Increases will likely be lower among commercial and industrial customers.
"With residential customers, there's a lot more costs associated with servicing and transmission," Meyer said.
The Citizens Action Coalition will begin combing through NIPSCO's more than 1,000-page petition next week, said Jerry Polk, the lawyer representing the coalition in the rate case.
Associated Press
MERRILLVILLE, Ind. (AP) - Northern Indiana Public Service Co. is seeking a pair of rate hikes that could boost residential utility bills nearly 15 percent by 2010.
Representatives of the Merrillville-based utility told the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission on Friday that the rate increases are needed to cover increased operating and maintenance costs, and to bring the Sugar Creek generating facility in Terre Haute on line.
Hammond Mayor Tom McDermott Jr., who opposes the increases, said customers deserve a rate cut.
"In a time like this, where people are paying $4 for a gallon of gas and people losing their homes and jobs, it's ridiculous for a company to be asking for any increase," he told the IURC.
Last month, McDermott and LaPorte County attorney Shaw Friedman announced their intent to oppose NIPSCO's proposed rate increase before the IURC.
Hearings on the case will start on Jan. 6 with a public hearing set for sometime early in the year. The IURC will make the final ruling on the rates, and NIPSCO will receive a final decision in late 2009 or early 2010.
NIPSCO spokesman Nick Meyer said the proposed rate structure reflects the cost to serve each customer group. Increases will likely be lower among commercial and industrial customers.
"With residential customers, there's a lot more costs associated with servicing and transmission," Meyer said.
The Citizens Action Coalition will begin combing through NIPSCO's more than 1,000-page petition next week, said Jerry Polk, the lawyer representing the coalition in the rate case.
Posted by: SDave Sep 4 2008, 08:49 PM
NIPSCO set the September price at 93 cents....
http://www.wndu.com/localnews/headlines/27784534.html
Posted by: southsider2k7 Sep 8 2008, 11:58 AM
http://thenewsdispatch.com/main.asp?SectionID=1&SubSectionID=1&ArticleID=17219&TM=50119.41
QUOTE
County to fight NIPSCO increases
Commissioners instead want a rate reduction.
Craig Davison
For The News-Dispatch
LA PORTE - The La Porte County Board of Commissioners plan to intervene in a NIPSCO desire to raise electric rates.
The new rate would increase the cost of monthly utility bills for the average residential customer by 15.5 percent.
Commissioners President Bill Hager, D-Michigan City, said county attorneys have successfully fought the electric company on rate and service in the past.
"Let me assure residents we are committed to fighting this tooth-and-nail," Hager said.
NIPSCO filed its case with the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission Aug. 29. This is NIPSCO's first base rate request in 20 years.
The rate increase takes place in two steps.
The first step, if approved by the IURC, may go into effect in late 2009 or early 2010, and would include a 2.7 percent base rate increase to cover operating and maintenance costs. The second step, which would not go into effect until mid-2010, would include an additional 9 percent increase for the acquisition of the Sugar Creek Generating Station.
For the average residential customer, the first step would increase monthly bills by $7.24. The second step would increase average monthly rates by another $5.90, for a total possible increase of $13.14 a month.
The second step would not begin until about June of 2010 because the Sugar Creek Generating Station, purchased by NIPSCO earlier this year, is under contract to provide power outside of NIPSCO service area until that time, said Nick Meyer, manager of NIPSCO Communications. The company can't charge customers for service they aren't receiving, he said.
"For the sake of businesses and residents in La Porte County, we will go to the mat to force a rate reduction from NIPSCO," he said.
Commissioners instead want a rate reduction.
Craig Davison
For The News-Dispatch
LA PORTE - The La Porte County Board of Commissioners plan to intervene in a NIPSCO desire to raise electric rates.
The new rate would increase the cost of monthly utility bills for the average residential customer by 15.5 percent.
Commissioners President Bill Hager, D-Michigan City, said county attorneys have successfully fought the electric company on rate and service in the past.
"Let me assure residents we are committed to fighting this tooth-and-nail," Hager said.
NIPSCO filed its case with the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission Aug. 29. This is NIPSCO's first base rate request in 20 years.
The rate increase takes place in two steps.
The first step, if approved by the IURC, may go into effect in late 2009 or early 2010, and would include a 2.7 percent base rate increase to cover operating and maintenance costs. The second step, which would not go into effect until mid-2010, would include an additional 9 percent increase for the acquisition of the Sugar Creek Generating Station.
For the average residential customer, the first step would increase monthly bills by $7.24. The second step would increase average monthly rates by another $5.90, for a total possible increase of $13.14 a month.
The second step would not begin until about June of 2010 because the Sugar Creek Generating Station, purchased by NIPSCO earlier this year, is under contract to provide power outside of NIPSCO service area until that time, said Nick Meyer, manager of NIPSCO Communications. The company can't charge customers for service they aren't receiving, he said.
"For the sake of businesses and residents in La Porte County, we will go to the mat to force a rate reduction from NIPSCO," he said.
Posted by: JHeath Sep 18 2008, 11:41 AM
Given the recent discussions on gasoline prices, which direction do you think natural gas costs will head?
Posted by: Ang Sep 18 2008, 12:42 PM
Our people here say the prices are going to get higher as winter progresses.
Posted by: southsider2k7 Sep 18 2008, 12:51 PM
The trend is up, that is for sure.
Posted by: ANDYT Sep 27 2008, 01:02 PM
QUOTE(southsider2k7 @ Sep 18 2008, 12:51 PM)
The trend is up, that is for sure.
dont sign up with any supplier ,just ride out the open market which is where NIPSCO obtains your gas supply from.
i wouldnt lock in any lower with any supplier more than a buck and make sure there is no cancellation fee.
Posted by: SDave Sep 29 2008, 08:24 PM
QUOTE(ANDYT @ Sep 27 2008, 03:02 PM)
dont sign up with any supplier ,just ride out the open market which is where NIPSCO obtains your gas supply from.
i wouldnt lock in any lower with any supplier more than a buck and make sure there is no cancellation fee.
ANDYT, Did you get my PM?
Posted by: SDave Oct 7 2008, 07:01 PM
NIPSCO set the price at 80 cents for October
Posted by: southyards Oct 7 2008, 11:23 PM
Here's a quote from the South Bend Tribune of 10/7/08:
"Your home heating bill this winter could be a little higher than it was last year.
The Northern Indiana Public Service Co. said today that customers could see a 10 to 20 percent rise in their bills, assuming normal winter temperatures.
That means, over the course of the winter heating season — Nov. 1 to March 31 — the average residential customer could expect to pay about $906. This compares with about $756 for a typical customer using the same amount during the last winter heating season."
Posted by: southsider2k7 Oct 24 2008, 11:04 AM
http://thenewsdispatch.com/main.asp?SectionID=1&SubSectionID=1&ArticleID=18375&TM=47541.63
QUOTE
Commissioners take stand against NIPSCO rate hike
Joseph Malan
For The News-Dispatch
LA PORTE - The La Porte County Commissioners passed a resolution Tuesday opposing a 16 percent electric-rate hike proposed by NIPSCO.
Commissioner Bill Hager, D-La Porte, said the sizeable rate increase is being used to recover $28.8 million in losses from the Sugar Creek generating station in Terre Haute, Ind. The station is not expected to generate power for customers until June 1, 2010.
"(NIPSCO) has to pay for more mistakes," Hager said, "and I don't think the taxpayers should pay for it."
The company filed an electric base-rate case with the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission on May 28. According to NIPSCO spokesman Nick Meyer, the purpose of the case was to establish a two-step process to recover funds from the losses.
The first step is increasing electric rates to "recover increased operating and maintenance costs." The second step is designed to help the company recover from the losses that have resulted from operating at Sugar Creek.
According to the resolution, the commissioners suggested NIPSCO sell the Sugar Creek facility "if it insists on recovering the plant's costs from ratepayers before power is provided to them." The board also suggested NIPSCO build a new power-generating facility, preferably in La Porte County, to ease the burden of all energy customers in the region.
Meyer contended it will cost NIPSCO much more to build a new facility rather than continue to operate Sugar Creek. Secondly, although a new station might be built in the future, he said it would take a lot of time, effort and money to decide where the new facility would be built.
"It isn't necessarily in the best interest of all customers to build a facility in La Porte County," Meyer said.
The company is constantly reviewing proposals to decide whether to pursue more power via wind-generating stations, he continued, It also has purchased 100 Megawatts of wind power for customers.
Joseph Malan
For The News-Dispatch
LA PORTE - The La Porte County Commissioners passed a resolution Tuesday opposing a 16 percent electric-rate hike proposed by NIPSCO.
Commissioner Bill Hager, D-La Porte, said the sizeable rate increase is being used to recover $28.8 million in losses from the Sugar Creek generating station in Terre Haute, Ind. The station is not expected to generate power for customers until June 1, 2010.
"(NIPSCO) has to pay for more mistakes," Hager said, "and I don't think the taxpayers should pay for it."
The company filed an electric base-rate case with the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission on May 28. According to NIPSCO spokesman Nick Meyer, the purpose of the case was to establish a two-step process to recover funds from the losses.
The first step is increasing electric rates to "recover increased operating and maintenance costs." The second step is designed to help the company recover from the losses that have resulted from operating at Sugar Creek.
According to the resolution, the commissioners suggested NIPSCO sell the Sugar Creek facility "if it insists on recovering the plant's costs from ratepayers before power is provided to them." The board also suggested NIPSCO build a new power-generating facility, preferably in La Porte County, to ease the burden of all energy customers in the region.
Meyer contended it will cost NIPSCO much more to build a new facility rather than continue to operate Sugar Creek. Secondly, although a new station might be built in the future, he said it would take a lot of time, effort and money to decide where the new facility would be built.
"It isn't necessarily in the best interest of all customers to build a facility in La Porte County," Meyer said.
The company is constantly reviewing proposals to decide whether to pursue more power via wind-generating stations, he continued, It also has purchased 100 Megawatts of wind power for customers.
Posted by: southsider2k7 Dec 4 2008, 01:18 PM
http://thenewsdispatch.com/main.asp?SectionID=1&SubSectionID=1&ArticleID=19416&TM=51490.05
QUOTE
Higher NIPSCO bills on the way
Craig Davison
For The News-Dispatch
MERRILLVILLE - Higher than usual natural gas prices during the summer have contributed to a rise in prices for NIPSCO customers this month.
NIPSCO announced this week residential customers will see a 7.4 percent increase in natural gas costs when compared to November. A typical customer using 150 therms of natural gas in December should expect to see a $13.51 increase in the bill.
Nick Meyer, NIPSCO manager of communications, said the company purchases and stores natural gas during the summer months, when costs are traditionally lower than in the winter. NIPSCO is still using a lot of natural gas purchased in July, he added, when prices were actually higher this year.
But the company's projections for how much winter heating will cost this season has slightly decreased, Meyer said.
In October, NIPSCO announced the winter heating season will cost 10 to 20 percent more than last winter. That figure has been decreased by 3 percent, Meyer said.
He said the high prices of natural gas bought during the summer were factored into the October forecast.
Customers worried about high winter heating bills can enroll in the company's budget plan, which bills users for a consistent amount throughout the year, Meyer said.
People also can winterize homes, seal leaks or cracks around their homes and invest in more energy-efficient appliances, he said.
Craig Davison
For The News-Dispatch
MERRILLVILLE - Higher than usual natural gas prices during the summer have contributed to a rise in prices for NIPSCO customers this month.
NIPSCO announced this week residential customers will see a 7.4 percent increase in natural gas costs when compared to November. A typical customer using 150 therms of natural gas in December should expect to see a $13.51 increase in the bill.
Nick Meyer, NIPSCO manager of communications, said the company purchases and stores natural gas during the summer months, when costs are traditionally lower than in the winter. NIPSCO is still using a lot of natural gas purchased in July, he added, when prices were actually higher this year.
But the company's projections for how much winter heating will cost this season has slightly decreased, Meyer said.
In October, NIPSCO announced the winter heating season will cost 10 to 20 percent more than last winter. That figure has been decreased by 3 percent, Meyer said.
He said the high prices of natural gas bought during the summer were factored into the October forecast.
Customers worried about high winter heating bills can enroll in the company's budget plan, which bills users for a consistent amount throughout the year, Meyer said.
People also can winterize homes, seal leaks or cracks around their homes and invest in more energy-efficient appliances, he said.
Posted by: JHeath Dec 4 2008, 02:11 PM
Didn't we predict this months ago? I wonder how much higher it will go in Jan & Feb?
Posted by: JHeath Jan 21 2009, 09:34 AM
Anyone seen their new bills? Holy cow...
Posted by: southsider2k9 Jan 21 2009, 09:38 AM
QUOTE(JHeath @ Jan 21 2009, 09:34 AM)
Anyone seen their new bills? Holy cow...
Yeah, I can't wait to see how they screw me on the budget plan.
Posted by: Roger Kaputnik Jan 21 2009, 09:59 AM
My budget plan has the correction bill in May. Usually the winter bills go pretty high, but it sure seems that the budget bill is busting my energy budget! I have heard of some whoppers--one lady in a Cape Cod had a bill almost 500 USD. Sheesh. And she lives alone!
Posted by: JHeath Jan 21 2009, 10:00 AM
Ours was estimated. I think I'll check the meters when I get home, just to see how far off they might be, and to help prepare myself for next month's bill. Ugh. 
Posted by: Homey Jan 21 2009, 10:18 AM
Mine was estimated as well. It has been for several months now...I know because there aren't any footprints in the snow 
I know I won't have any credit coming back in May from my budget plan...this winter has blown it for me
Posted by: Roger Kaputnik Jan 21 2009, 10:52 AM
QUOTE(Homey @ Jan 21 2009, 10:18 AM)
Mine was estimated as well. It has been for several months now...I know because there aren't any footprints in the snow I know I won't have any credit coming back in May from my budget plan...this winter has blown it for me
I know I won't have any credit coming back in May from my budget plan...this winter has blown it for me You don't think the new snow might'a covered 'em up?
Posted by: Homey Jan 21 2009, 11:49 AM
No, we have a gate to the side of the house for access, and it's been drifted over for quite awhile and hard to open. I usually see him around the week of the 14th and we wave at each other.
Posted by: Roger Kaputnik Jan 21 2009, 12:17 PM
It will say on the bill if it was estimated, by the way. Some places, and I think it is mostly businesses, have the kind the readers can get from outside the house with a drive-by.
Posted by: eric.hanke Jan 21 2009, 12:49 PM
We received our NIPSCO bill, if that's what you want to call it, earlier this week. It required a stiff drink prior to writing the check.
Keep an eye on your meter if the bill is estimated. NIPSCO, as you would expect, always estimates high in their favor. I also noticed over the years, they like to estimate more during periods of rate increases.
Posted by: Roger Kaputnik Jan 21 2009, 01:51 PM
L'chaim! and the next jesz will be for when I get my bill.
Posted by: southsider2k9 Feb 9 2009, 08:18 AM
http://thenewsdispatch.com/main.asp?SectionID=1&SubSectionID=1&ArticleID=20886&TM=32967.35
QUOTE
Electric rate case moving forward
Joseph Malan
The News-Dispatch
MICHIGAN CITY - The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission took another step Friday in completing NIPSCO's 2008 electric rate case.
On Friday, the IURC finished hearing evidence and arguments from NIPSCO after a month of testimony from the company. On March 3, a field hearing will be held in Gary for any Northwest Indiana resident to submit written or oral testimony in the case.
NIPSCO is currently proposing a 9.8 percent base electric rate increase among all residential customers to match the increase in cost of operating electricity, as well as to recover funds from buying the Sugar Creek Generating Station in Terre Haute.
If passed, the average increase on a customer's monthly electric bill would be $12.76.
Nick Meyer, spokesman for NIPSCO, said rising fuel prices are mostly to blame for the electric rate case.
"Essentially there is a portion for fuel costs [on the bill] as they rise. That's the direct pass through to customers," Meyer said.
Meyer also said the base rate hasn't changed since 21 years ago, when the last rate case was filed.
On Wednesday, NiSource Inc., NIPSCO's parent company, released a report of earnings for 2008.
According to the report, NiSource earned $127 million in operating revenue during the final three months of 2008, as opposed to $59.5 million during the final three months of 2007.
However, NiSource's electric operations, which NIPSCO is chiefly responsible for, were much lower in 2008, compared to 2007. NiSource reported $220.2 million in operating earnings for 2008, while reporting $283.1 million in 2007.
According to the report, operating expenses increased by $41.3 million, due to higher employee and administrative costs, electric generation and other expenses, including those associated with NIPSCO's acquisition of the Sugar Creek Generating Station.
Meyer said he hopes the rate increase would help boost the company's operating earnings for 2009.
Danielle Dravet, spokeswoman for the IURC, said proceedings for the rate case are on schedule so far, but the ultimate decision could be far down the road.
"Rate cases can take anywhere from 12 to 18 months, and we are not bound by time constraints," Dravet said.
Former La Porte County Attorney Shaw Friedman is still representing La Porte County in the case, due to the fact the case began in 2008.
"President (Barb) Huston has been quoted as indicating that it was a fairly involved case and since it was well-along, the commission has directed us to remain in the rate case and address the concerns of La Porte County residents," Friedman said. "Stakes are high; this is the first rate case in over 20 years."
Joseph Malan
The News-Dispatch
MICHIGAN CITY - The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission took another step Friday in completing NIPSCO's 2008 electric rate case.
On Friday, the IURC finished hearing evidence and arguments from NIPSCO after a month of testimony from the company. On March 3, a field hearing will be held in Gary for any Northwest Indiana resident to submit written or oral testimony in the case.
NIPSCO is currently proposing a 9.8 percent base electric rate increase among all residential customers to match the increase in cost of operating electricity, as well as to recover funds from buying the Sugar Creek Generating Station in Terre Haute.
If passed, the average increase on a customer's monthly electric bill would be $12.76.
Nick Meyer, spokesman for NIPSCO, said rising fuel prices are mostly to blame for the electric rate case.
"Essentially there is a portion for fuel costs [on the bill] as they rise. That's the direct pass through to customers," Meyer said.
Meyer also said the base rate hasn't changed since 21 years ago, when the last rate case was filed.
On Wednesday, NiSource Inc., NIPSCO's parent company, released a report of earnings for 2008.
According to the report, NiSource earned $127 million in operating revenue during the final three months of 2008, as opposed to $59.5 million during the final three months of 2007.
However, NiSource's electric operations, which NIPSCO is chiefly responsible for, were much lower in 2008, compared to 2007. NiSource reported $220.2 million in operating earnings for 2008, while reporting $283.1 million in 2007.
According to the report, operating expenses increased by $41.3 million, due to higher employee and administrative costs, electric generation and other expenses, including those associated with NIPSCO's acquisition of the Sugar Creek Generating Station.
Meyer said he hopes the rate increase would help boost the company's operating earnings for 2009.
Danielle Dravet, spokeswoman for the IURC, said proceedings for the rate case are on schedule so far, but the ultimate decision could be far down the road.
"Rate cases can take anywhere from 12 to 18 months, and we are not bound by time constraints," Dravet said.
Former La Porte County Attorney Shaw Friedman is still representing La Porte County in the case, due to the fact the case began in 2008.
"President (Barb) Huston has been quoted as indicating that it was a fairly involved case and since it was well-along, the commission has directed us to remain in the rate case and address the concerns of La Porte County residents," Friedman said. "Stakes are high; this is the first rate case in over 20 years."
Posted by: southsider2k9 Feb 12 2009, 12:59 PM
http://thenewsdispatch.com/main.asp?SectionID=1&SubSectionID=1&ArticleID=20990&TM=50345.97
QUOTE
Rate case is vital
Joseph Malan
The News-Dispatch
MICHIGAN CITY - An upcoming hearing concerning the NIPSCO rate case is vital because customers can submit complaints and comments.
That's according to attorney Shaw Friedman, who's representing La Porte County in the matter.
The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission field hearing is at 6 p.m. Tuesday, March 3, at Indiana University-Northwest, Gary.
"It's important that ratepayers and the commission takes that input very seriously," Friedman said.
On Friday, the IURC finished hearing testimony from NIPSCO. As the first round of hearings began to wind down, Friedman revealed some of his main arguments against the utility.
NIPSCO, Friedman said, scored "dead last in the nation of the 120 utilities surveyed in the 2008 J.D. Powers' residential customer satisfaction survey."
According to the survey, NIPSCO received a score of 527 points out of a possible 1,000. By comparison, Toledo Edison, the company that finished second-to-last in the Midwest region, scored 572 points.
"We think that is really compelling evidence," Friedman said. "You don't reward companies for failure."
Friedman also said NiSource Inc., NIPSCO's parent company, is partially to blame for the local energy company's current condition and the rate case.
"NIPSCO customers are already paying for numerous mistakes by the parent company, NiSource, such as the $6 billion hostile takeover of Columbia energy in 2000," Friedman said.
"We will push hard in any rate order for protections such as 'ring-fencing' that will help protect against pressures from the parent company to upstream dividends, pay off parent company debt or reduce capital investment in the utility. Wall Street is going to keep pushing NiSource management to suck more profit from its NIPSCO electric subsidiary, and we believe protections have to be built into the IURC order to protect ratepayers."
Joseph Malan
The News-Dispatch
MICHIGAN CITY - An upcoming hearing concerning the NIPSCO rate case is vital because customers can submit complaints and comments.
That's according to attorney Shaw Friedman, who's representing La Porte County in the matter.
The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission field hearing is at 6 p.m. Tuesday, March 3, at Indiana University-Northwest, Gary.
"It's important that ratepayers and the commission takes that input very seriously," Friedman said.
On Friday, the IURC finished hearing testimony from NIPSCO. As the first round of hearings began to wind down, Friedman revealed some of his main arguments against the utility.
NIPSCO, Friedman said, scored "dead last in the nation of the 120 utilities surveyed in the 2008 J.D. Powers' residential customer satisfaction survey."
According to the survey, NIPSCO received a score of 527 points out of a possible 1,000. By comparison, Toledo Edison, the company that finished second-to-last in the Midwest region, scored 572 points.
"We think that is really compelling evidence," Friedman said. "You don't reward companies for failure."
Friedman also said NiSource Inc., NIPSCO's parent company, is partially to blame for the local energy company's current condition and the rate case.
"NIPSCO customers are already paying for numerous mistakes by the parent company, NiSource, such as the $6 billion hostile takeover of Columbia energy in 2000," Friedman said.
"We will push hard in any rate order for protections such as 'ring-fencing' that will help protect against pressures from the parent company to upstream dividends, pay off parent company debt or reduce capital investment in the utility. Wall Street is going to keep pushing NiSource management to suck more profit from its NIPSCO electric subsidiary, and we believe protections have to be built into the IURC order to protect ratepayers."
Posted by: southsider2k9 Feb 16 2009, 01:13 PM
http://thenewsdispatch.com/main.asp?SectionID=50&SubSectionID=72&ArticleID=20991&TM=51247.66
QUOTE
NIPSCO
Electrical rate hearing coming
Editorial
The public will get a chance to voice its opinion about an electrical rate increase sought by Northern Indiana Public Service Co. on March 3 at Indiana University-Northwest in Gary.
It's no stretch to imagine that customers will be unanimously opposed to paying NIPSCO more, but a public hearing is a part of the lengthy process the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission conducts on rate changes, as it should be.
The real input, however, is more likely to be the presentation made by NIPSCO, which is now completed, and the opposing arguments of consumers, which is next. One of the parties representing consumers is La Porte County government. The La Porte County Commissioners have retained La Porte attorney Shaw Friedman, who has worked on NIPSCO matters for the last decade.
NIPSCO rates and the quality of its service are important to La Porte County residents. First, the electric bill is a significant cost homeowners and most apartment dwellers face every month. During a recession like this,, a rate hike is clearly unwelcome.
But, second, electricity rates and dependable service are important factors for companies looking for a place to do business. While a 10 or 12 percent increase in a household's electric bill is unpleasant, estimated at about $12 to $13 for a typical home, imagine the cost to businesses and industries that use larger amounts of electricity. Of course, they are in different categories than homes and pay different electricity rates, but for the sake of economic development, business retention and business expansion, this area needs rates as low as possible.
These are issues Friedman is an expert on, and he will make a good case for La Porte County's interests. As he has pointed out, NIPSCO is seeking a higher return on equity, 12 percent, than I&M, which gets 10.5 percent in its service territory just to the east. And Friedman points out that NIPSCO is rated last in the nation of the 120 utilities surveyed in the 2008 J.D. Powers' residential customer satisfaction survey.
NIPSCO has some distance to go to demonstrate it deserves a rate hike.
Electrical rate hearing coming
Editorial
The public will get a chance to voice its opinion about an electrical rate increase sought by Northern Indiana Public Service Co. on March 3 at Indiana University-Northwest in Gary.
It's no stretch to imagine that customers will be unanimously opposed to paying NIPSCO more, but a public hearing is a part of the lengthy process the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission conducts on rate changes, as it should be.
The real input, however, is more likely to be the presentation made by NIPSCO, which is now completed, and the opposing arguments of consumers, which is next. One of the parties representing consumers is La Porte County government. The La Porte County Commissioners have retained La Porte attorney Shaw Friedman, who has worked on NIPSCO matters for the last decade.
NIPSCO rates and the quality of its service are important to La Porte County residents. First, the electric bill is a significant cost homeowners and most apartment dwellers face every month. During a recession like this,, a rate hike is clearly unwelcome.
But, second, electricity rates and dependable service are important factors for companies looking for a place to do business. While a 10 or 12 percent increase in a household's electric bill is unpleasant, estimated at about $12 to $13 for a typical home, imagine the cost to businesses and industries that use larger amounts of electricity. Of course, they are in different categories than homes and pay different electricity rates, but for the sake of economic development, business retention and business expansion, this area needs rates as low as possible.
These are issues Friedman is an expert on, and he will make a good case for La Porte County's interests. As he has pointed out, NIPSCO is seeking a higher return on equity, 12 percent, than I&M, which gets 10.5 percent in its service territory just to the east. And Friedman points out that NIPSCO is rated last in the nation of the 120 utilities surveyed in the 2008 J.D. Powers' residential customer satisfaction survey.
NIPSCO has some distance to go to demonstrate it deserves a rate hike.
Posted by: southsider2k9 Mar 5 2009, 01:34 PM
http://thenewsdispatch.com/main.asp?SectionID=50&SubSectionID=75&ArticleID=21457&TM=52507.68
QUOTE
People can't afford NIPSCO increase
I thank Willie Milsap, 5th Ward councilman, for encouraging me to attend the public hearing on the NIPSCO electric rate case at Indiana University Northwest Tuesday.
It seems La Porte County United Way and other not-for-profit organizations have been receiving money from NIPSCO and they were encouraging the rate increase. When this money gets to La Porte County, who is receiving it? The middle man and the little person are paying for corporate luncheons and golf outings. The trustee offices and Jane and John Doe customers are NOT benefiting from this money. We have been paying more for NIPSCO than for our mortgages. One 91-year-old customer brought her NIPSCO bills to prove it. She paid $1,444.43 in January and $1,524.23 in February.
Senior citizens on fixed income, young adults just starting out, people with disabilities and I cannot afford an increase in NIPSCO bills. Please, Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission, say NO to the NIPSCO electric rate increase.
We Michigan City residents don't even have an office in Michigan City to go to with questions or complaints. Where is our service for our rate increase? Imagine a senior citizen trying to get help on the telephone pressing buttons for 15 to 20 minutes to a recorded message and you still do not have help with your problem, but NIPSCO wants a rate increase. After you talk to someone, it takes from one to one and a half hours for help to arrive. Then they want to bill you for the services rendered, unless you have an E.S.P. protection plan, which you don't understand.
NIPSCO says that it is "only" a $12 a month increase. If I am on fixed income, which I am, I can get: one loaf of bread for $1.19; one dozen eggs for $2.09; one gallon of milk (2 percent) for $3.69 and three pounds of ground beef with that $12.
Please do not let NIPSCO raise my rates.
On April 17 the Office of Utility Consumer Counselor (OUCC) and intervening parties are schedued to file testimony in this case. It is not too late to send your testimony. Refer to IURC Case number 43526 at www.in.gov/oucc/2457.htm or uccinfo@oucc.IN.gov
W. Faye Moore
Michigan City
I thank Willie Milsap, 5th Ward councilman, for encouraging me to attend the public hearing on the NIPSCO electric rate case at Indiana University Northwest Tuesday.
It seems La Porte County United Way and other not-for-profit organizations have been receiving money from NIPSCO and they were encouraging the rate increase. When this money gets to La Porte County, who is receiving it? The middle man and the little person are paying for corporate luncheons and golf outings. The trustee offices and Jane and John Doe customers are NOT benefiting from this money. We have been paying more for NIPSCO than for our mortgages. One 91-year-old customer brought her NIPSCO bills to prove it. She paid $1,444.43 in January and $1,524.23 in February.
Senior citizens on fixed income, young adults just starting out, people with disabilities and I cannot afford an increase in NIPSCO bills. Please, Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission, say NO to the NIPSCO electric rate increase.
We Michigan City residents don't even have an office in Michigan City to go to with questions or complaints. Where is our service for our rate increase? Imagine a senior citizen trying to get help on the telephone pressing buttons for 15 to 20 minutes to a recorded message and you still do not have help with your problem, but NIPSCO wants a rate increase. After you talk to someone, it takes from one to one and a half hours for help to arrive. Then they want to bill you for the services rendered, unless you have an E.S.P. protection plan, which you don't understand.
NIPSCO says that it is "only" a $12 a month increase. If I am on fixed income, which I am, I can get: one loaf of bread for $1.19; one dozen eggs for $2.09; one gallon of milk (2 percent) for $3.69 and three pounds of ground beef with that $12.
Please do not let NIPSCO raise my rates.
On April 17 the Office of Utility Consumer Counselor (OUCC) and intervening parties are schedued to file testimony in this case. It is not too late to send your testimony. Refer to IURC Case number 43526 at www.in.gov/oucc/2457.htm or uccinfo@oucc.IN.gov
W. Faye Moore
Michigan City
Posted by: southsider2k9 Apr 22 2009, 01:24 PM
http://thenewsdispatch.com/main.asp?SectionID=1&SubSectionID=1&ArticleID=22657&TM=55364.82
QUOTE
From Staff Reports
INDIANAPOLIS - The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission has agreed to hold a second public hearing on the electric rate increase sought by NIPSCO, this time in Michigan City.
Danielle Dravet, public information officer for the IURC, said the commission received the request for a second hearing from State Rep. Scott D. Pelath, D-Michigan City, and plans to schedule it soon.
"We are checking on a few dates," she said, and the IURC plans to announce the time and place sometime in the next couple of weeks.
"With a large service territory like NIPSCO's, we want to give people the opportunity to voice their concerns to the commission," she said.
NIPSCO is seeking a 15.62-percent increase for residential customers, which would cost the typical homeowner about an extra $12.76 per month.
The first hearing drew an overflow crowd at the March 3 hearing at Indiana University Northwest in Gary.
"The commission's first hearing was, as you know, very well attended. Public interest in a second is high, and several constituents of mine have already contacted me in support of a second hearing," Pelath said in a letter to Joseph M. Sutherland, executive director, governmental affairs, for the IURC.
"I would like to propose Michigan City, or another convenient location in La Porte County, as the site for the meeting. My hope is that a more central location for the second hearing would make it easily accessible to those living on the eastern edge of the NIPSCO service area. The Orak Shrine Center in Michigan City, for example, offers spacious facilities," Pelath said.
"I realize that the hearing would be held on a weeknight, and so I might suggest that a second hearing be held later in the evening than was the first, to ensure that everyone interested has the chance to arrive in a timely manner after work," he said.
Posted by: southsider2k9 May 5 2009, 08:08 AM
As low as prices are now, I would look into locking into a rate long term. It might be going a bit lower, but in reality it can't fall much further than it already has done.
http://thenewsdispatch.com/main.asp?SectionID=1&SubSectionID=1&ArticleID=22965&TM=45178.34
QUOTE
Gas cost decrease announced
MERRILLVILLE, Ind. - Northern Indiana Public Service Co. announced Monday that the gas cost adjustment for May 2009 decreased compared with last month. This month's decrease is primarily attributed to an expected decrease in wholesale natural gas prices as compared with the previous month.
NIPSCO residential customers will see a decrease in natural gas costs of 18.13 percent when compared with April 2009. The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission approved the adjustment subject to refund.
A typical NIPSCO residential customer using 50 therms of natural gas should expect a decrease of approximately $6.16 from last month's statement in their May billing, although total bill amounts will vary as a result of actual consumption.
MERRILLVILLE, Ind. - Northern Indiana Public Service Co. announced Monday that the gas cost adjustment for May 2009 decreased compared with last month. This month's decrease is primarily attributed to an expected decrease in wholesale natural gas prices as compared with the previous month.
NIPSCO residential customers will see a decrease in natural gas costs of 18.13 percent when compared with April 2009. The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission approved the adjustment subject to refund.
A typical NIPSCO residential customer using 50 therms of natural gas should expect a decrease of approximately $6.16 from last month's statement in their May billing, although total bill amounts will vary as a result of actual consumption.
Posted by: southsider2k9 Jul 10 2009, 03:06 PM
http://www.chestertontribune.com/Business/78910%20public_hearing_july_15_on_nipsco.htm
QUOTE
By KEVIN NEVERS
A public field hearing has been scheduled by the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) on the Northern Indiana Public Service Company’s request to increase its electric base rates and charges.
Under NIPSCO’s proposal, residential customers would seek their electric rate jump 14.34 percent.
The public field hearing is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 15, at the Orak Shrine Center at 3848 N. Frontage Road in Michigan City. At that hearing--scheduled to last until around 4 p.m.--the IURC will accept both oral and written consumer comments on the proposed rate hike. Additional comments may be submitted at an evening session, scheduled to begin at 6 p.m.
The field hearing will be preceded by an informational meeting held by the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor (OUCC), which will discuss the regulatory process and describe public field hearing procedures.
Comments submitted to the IURC will become part of the evidentiary record considered by the IURC in reaching its final decision. Commissioners are not permitted to answer questions during the public field hearing.
Proposed Rate Hike
In December NIPSCO announced that, instead of a two-phase hike of 15.5 percent in residential customers’ electric rate enacted over approximately two years, it would seek a single-phase hike of 14.34 percent.
If the IURC were to grant NIPSCO’s revised petition, residential customers would see an immediate increase of 14.34 percent, raising the average monthly bill by $12.76, from $81.68 to $94.44.
NIPSCO revised its petition to reflect the earlier than expected addition, on Dec. 1, 2008, of the Sugar Creek Generating Station’s capacity. NIPSCO purchased the Sugar Creek facility in 2008 for $330 million but did not anticipate its contribution to the company’s grid until June 2010.
One thing has not changed in the revised rate case, however: residential customers would still shoulder the greatest part of the rate hike, as the overall rate increase, when spread among NIPSCO’s residential, commercial, and industrial customers, would total only 9.8 percent.
Of NIPSCO’s approximately 457,976 customers--as of August 2008--nearly 88 percent were residential. But residential customers consume only 20 percent of NIPSCO’s generated electricity.
Around 12 percent of NIPSCO’s customers are commercial and they consume 21 percent of the company’s generated electricy; less than 1 percent of NIPSCO’s customers are industrial and they consume fully 53 percent of its generated electricity.
NIPSCO is attributing the need for a rate increase to necessary infrastructure improvements, to escalating fuel, transportation, environmental, and material costs, and to customers’ growing demand for energy.
OUCC Response
The OUCC, on the other hand--the state agency representing consumer interests before state and federal regulatory commissions--is recommending that NIPSCO’s electric base rate increase be denied.
“NIPSCO is seeking an $85.7 million increase in its annual base electric rate revenues in this case,” the OUCC said in a statement released in May. “In contrast, the OUCC is recommending a revenue reduction of $135.2 million.”
The OUCC did say that the recommended revenue reduction would be affected by two factors: the expiration of monthly residential rate credits totaling $55 million per year, as ordered by the IURC in a 2002 investigation of NIPSCO’s electric rates; and by the expiration of special contract rates for certain industrial customers.
“Due to these two factors, base electric rates paid by NIPSCO residential customers would remain at or near their current levels under the OUCC’s recommendations,” the OUCC said.
The OUCC is also recommending the following:
*Significant decreases in NIPSCO’s requested cost recovery for depreciation, return on investment, aging workforce expenditures, and gasoline/diesel fuel.
*An authorized return on equity of 10 percent, as opposed to NIPSCO’s request for a 12 percent return.
*The inclusion of emission allowance costs and revenues in base rates, offsetting part of the base rate impact on customers.
*A six-year amortization of rate case expenses instead of the three-year amortization requested by NIPSCO.
Submitting Comments
NIPSCO customers who wish to submit written comments on the case may do so either during or in advance of the Michigan City public field hearing. Written comments should include the consumer’s name, mailing address, and a reference to IURC Cause No. 43526. Send them to one of the following:
*Consumer Services Staff, Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor, 115 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 South, Indianapolis, IN 46204.
*Fax: (317) 232-5923.
*E-mail: uccinfo@oucc.IN.gov
*OUCC website: www.IN.gov/OUCC
Some History
Although the IURC has not issued an electric rate order for NIPSCO since 1987--when the company last filed a comprehensive base-rate case--in 2002 it did enter into a settlement with NIPSCO under which the company credited customers’ bills at least $225 million over 49 months. That settlement followed a mandatory periodic review in which the IURC determined that NIPSCO’s operating income in 1999 was around $23 million higher than the maximum allowable under the 1987 order and that its rate of return was 10.63 percent, a point and a half higher than the 9.06 percent permitted by that order.
IURC staff initially recommended an 11.6 percent across-the-board reduction in electric rates, then agreed to the customer credits, which saved the average residential customer approximately $50 per year over the life of the settlement.
At the same time that IURC staff was recommending an 11.6 percent across-the-board decrease in electric rates, though, NIPSCO was maintaining that it deserved a 24-percent increase to reflect a fair return on the value of its assets.
Posted 7/8/2009
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