Sen. Libla Urges Attendance At PSC Hearing in Dexter
State Sen. Doug Libla, R-Poplar Bluff, is urging citizens to attend an open hearing of the Missouri Public Service Commission in Dexter, Mo., on Jan. 26, at the Elks Lodge, 325 N. Two Mile Road, to provide testimony on an electric rate case filed by Ameren Missouri. Citizens will be given the opportunity to speak on the proposed rate increase.
Last year, Ameren Missouri filed an electric rate case seeking to increase annual electric revenues by approximately $264 million, or 9.65 percent. The filing includes a request to continue its fuel adjustment clause that reflects changes in the cost of fuel used to generate electricity on customers’ bills through a separately-identified surcharge or credit outside a general rate case.
“We have seen evidence in recent years that Ameren continues to earn more than it’s authorized. Yet, it still seeks to charge Missouri customers more, who have no other avenues to purchase utilities,” said Sen. Libla. “These increases jeopardize the ability of local businesses to operate, fall most heavily on the backs of struggling families, and frequently seem unnecessary. It’s important these cases are properly vetted, and that includes gathering sufficient public testimony. This rate increase would affect all of us. I strongly encourage all citizens in my district to attend this important meeting. Make your voices heard.”
Rates have increased for Ameren customers by 43 percent over the last 8 years. In addition, fuel adjustment surcharges have been raised $600 million in the last 5 years. Reports from the St. Louis Post Dispatch revealed Ameren Missouri earned $80 million more than authorized in 2012.
If you are unable to attend a local public hearing and wish to make written comments or secure additional information, you may contact the Office of the Public Counsel, P.O. Box 2230, Jefferson City, Missouri 65102, telephone 1-866-922-2959, email opcservice@ded.mo.gov or the Missouri Public Service Commission, P.O. Box 360, Jefferson City, Missouri 65102, telephone 1-800-392-4211, email pscinfo@psc.mo.gov.
Comments may also be registered in the case using the Commission’s electronic filing system at www.efis.psc.mo.gov/mpsc/Comments.html.