Indiana Michigan Power is seeking public's input regarding rate hike

Indiana Michigan Power is requesting a rate hike. But to do so, they need the public’s input, through the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission.

I&M is seeking a two-phase increase that would raise annual revenues by $116.4 million. They are wanting to raise residential monthly services charges from $14.79 to $17.50. The customer base rate would also increase, beginning in 2025.

The utility states in its testimony that it is seeking the increase because of higher operating and maintenance expenses, as well as infrastructure improvements.

The utility will not make a presentation or answer any questions, as the sole focus is on public input.

Olivia Rivera, spokesperson for the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor, says for anyone who would like to speak during the hearing tonight, they will be under oath and on the record, as these comments will be used for the case record.

She says consumers who are unable to attend but want to voice their thoughts, written comments can be submitted to the OUCC by November 8th. Formal testimony from the OUCC is due on November 15th.

The hearing will start at 6 p.m. but customers are encouraged to arrive at 5:45 p.m. It will be held at the South Bend Century Center Recital Hall, located at 120 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd.

Rivera says there was a good turnout at the Fort Wayne hearing, with 10 people speaking to the commission. She is hoping the same for tonight.

“We’re expecting a lot of consumers to come out and express their concerns. Even though they can’t ask questions to the commission, they can come to us and our table and ask us questions because our office is the consumer representative. We will have staff members there to explain the case and process to any members of the public or customers that show up,” Rivera said.

Indiana Michigan Power tells ABC57 News, “We value being open and transparent with our customers through the rate review process. Monday’s hearing is our opportunity to hear directly from customers and we welcome the chance to gather important feedback.”