PUBLIC SHOULD SPEAK UP NOW ON PROPOSED PECO RATE INCREASE

 HARRISBURG, MAY 13 – State Sen. Connie Williams announced today that individuals who purchase natural gas from PECO and who would like to express their thoughts on a proposed 11.2 percent overall increase should speak up now.

 PECO Energy Company filed a request with the Public Utility Commission to increase the level of rates it charges for providing natural gas distribution to its customers by $98.3 million. With the proposed rate increases, the average residential customer would realize increases of $7.20 to $12 per month.

 The increase would impact some 480,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Lancaster and Montgomery counties.

 "At present, the Pennsylvania Office of Consumer Advocate is reaching out to the impacted areas to determine if there is sufficient interest in convening public hearings in the PECO service territory," Williams said. "The PUC only grants requests for public input hearings if there is sufficient interest. Consumers and others who will be impacted should the rate increase be granted, should come forward now, if they want the opportunity to testify at a public input hearing."

 The OCA filed a formal complaint and has asked the PUC to suspend the proposed rate increase, pending a thorough investigation of the utility's request.

 Individuals interested in requesting a public input hearing, or who would like more information on the proposed rate increase may call the Office of Consumer Advocate toll free at 800-684-6560.