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Will your power bill go up? Company wants to increase bills

Posted at 5:21 PM, Aug 11, 2017
and last updated 2017-08-14 15:51:25-04

APS says a typical monthly bill would go up by about $6. But the Arizona Public Interest Research Group (AZPIRG) says some customers could see a more significant jump.

It's part of an APS rate review going before the Arizona Corporation Commission on Tuesday.

APS says it's their first review in five years. 

If approved, they say they'll be investing in cleaner energy infrastructure, adding $12 million to fund limited-income programs and offering more choices for customers.

One part involves an increase in the basic service charge (BSC) that all customers pay.

How much depends on who you ask. 

AZPIRG's Diane Brown says the current charge at just under $9 could go as high as $20. She says she's also concerned that charge is not largely based on usage.

"We believe customers should pay based on how much they use and should have better control over their electricity use," she tells me.

But APS says the typical customer would only see a $2 increase monthly or even a decrease.

In an email, APS said "If a customer doesn’t want a $20 BSC, they can choose from among several plans with a lower BSC.  That’s one of the many benefits of this agreement — customers have more choice and control over their rate options."

Brown says new customers would also have less control over charges if the plan is passed.

She says new customers would have to choose a demand rate or time of use rate for the first 90 days.

"At the end of the day, customers, not APS should be choosing the rate plan that is best for them and their needs," she says.

The plan also includes changes in off-peak hours and solar credits. 

The Arizona Corporation Commission will decide. 

Public comment is welcome.

It's Tuesday, Aug. 15, beginning at 8 a.m., at Corporation Commission offices, 1200 W. Washington in Phoenix.

Click hereto see the APS rate review plan from the APS website.

Click hereto read more on AZPIRG's opinions.

Click hereto find out more about the Arizona Corporation Commission.