By KRWG News
New Mexico – SANTA FE, N.M. (KRWG) New Mexico regulators are encouraging members of the public to comment on a proposed rate increase for customers of the state's largest electric utility.
The state Public Regulation Commission is set to discuss the matter at its regular meeting in Santa Fe on Thursday. The commission is expected to make a final decision later this summer.
Public Service Company of New Mexico is asking that base rates be increased by nearly 11 percent.
A hearing examiner recommended in June that the increase be approved. However, she suggested eliminating a one-time $20 million additional charge requested by the utility for capital projects.
The hearing examiner also recommended changes in the residential rate design structure that would affect customers differently depending on their usage. The structure is aimed at promoting conservation.
Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. KRWG