TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — More information was given on Duke Energy’s request to increase rates in the area.
If the request is approved, the average customer can expect to see an increase of roughly 16 percent. Duke Energy stated the reason for the proposed increase is to fund multiple infrastructure projects in the area, as well as increased operating and maintenance costs.
Angeline Protogere is a spokesperson for Duke Energy Indiana, and she says that they have invested roughly $1.6 billion since 2020 to better serve consumers.
“Most of that has been an investment in the electric grid in part to harden it against severe weather,” she said. “Much like Terre Haute saw last summer during the July 4th storms to help prevent power outages.”
The Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor will give a testimony with their recommendations in July, but consumers have a chance to give their feedback. Spokesperson Olivia Rivera says that every comment matters.
“Our office is the representative of the consumer in this case,” she said. “Our office represents consumer interests and we will be filing all those comments we receive with our testimony and our recommendation this summer.”
June 4 is when consumers can voice their concerns in person, but written comments will be accepted until July 5. The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission will come to a decision by early 2025.