AARP Works Hard to Keep Utility Rates in Check
Missouri utility companies blocked from sending rates skyward
Source: AARP.org | August 24, 2007
AARP Missouri is fighting for all residents - and not only on the "big" questions, such as those embodied by Divided We Fail. We are working to make sure major corporations and conglomerates don't take advantage of hardworking consumers.
Recently the AARP Missouri advocacy team helped block the state's utility companies from sending their rates skyward.
Here are some details:
- At hearings conducted by the Missouri Public Service Commission, AARP - along with other groups - provided expert testimony that helped stop AmerenUE (St. Louis) and Aquila (Kansas City) from raising rates on coal, natural gas or energy sources used in power plants.
- The two utilities had based their argument on the fuel adjustment clause, the terms of which AARP and other groups successfully contested.
- In St. Louis, AmerenUE sought $361 million in increased revenue; only $43 million was approved.
- In the Kansas City area, Aquila was granted a rate increase of just 8 percent, considerably less than the amount it wanted. The commission cited AARP's efforts in the decision.
To order the pamphlet "Staying Warm this Winter and Cool Next Summer" contact AARP via email.
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