The City of Las Cruces today submitted a request with the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (PRC) to intervene in the El Paso Electric (EPE) rate case filed Monday, May 11. EPE is seeking an increase in electric rates of approximately $8.6 million or 7.1 percent of non-fuel base rates. These proposed rates will result in a 9 percent increase, on average, to total residential bills. The City filed on behalf of itself and the residents of Las Cruces.
In its filing, the City of Las Cruces states, “The City seeks leave to intervene in this proceeding to examine EPE's Application for revisions in its rates and to present evidence and argument concerning this matter. No other party can adequately represent the interests of the City and the City’s residents.”
The City further contends, “EPE proposes to change the rates for every rate classification, to significantly alter the design of most of its rate schedules, and to eliminate certain rate classifications, most notably the City and County Service rate schedule.”
EPE’s proposed rate schedule calls in part for a 20% increase in street lighting service, and a 20% increase in outdoor recreational lighting. “The City of Las Cruces is one of EPE’s largest customers. The proposed rate case, if approved, will have a significant financial impact on the City’s electric bill,” said City Manager Robert Garza.
In documents filed with the PRC, the City further states, “The City has an interest in participating in this rate proceeding as a customer of EPE under several rate classifications. The City is one of EPE's primary customers under some of those rate classifications, including Street Lighting Service and Water, Sewage, Storm Sewage Pumping or Sewage Disposal.”
The City is requesting to receive all written discovery requests, responses, and objections made by NMPRC Utility Division Staff or any party in this proceeding.