EPE customers speak out against rate hikes

electric’s proposed rate increase would affect all the utility’s texas customers! many are upset with the proposal and today city council gave people a chance to speak at a special city hall meeting. abc 7 reporter evan folan was there … he brings us more on the heated topic … rick/estella, this proposed rate increase has many el pasoans upset! but el paso electric says – the new rates would keep some customers from subsidizing the cost for others who are being undercharged. 34-52 sot “to ask for another rat increase in this point of time when we are already paying the highest rates is a little out of line for us” businesses and homeowners are frusterated with el paso electrics proposed rate increase -so city council allowed for those frustrations to be heard during a special meeting. “what el pas electric is proposing makes solar a lot less attractive to people” “w should not be punished for generating less energy than el paso electric.” a majority of the comments came from solar home owners – who dissagree with their increase in charges and change of customer class. el paso electric says it’s only fair. “treating these customers the same as other residential that don’t have solar puts an unfair burden on these folks and puts and unfair advantage of those using all of the grid and paying less than their share for grid usage. ” a spokesman for ep says solar home owners are paying the same as regular homes – even with additional services like an extra meter, wires and maintenance – and others are having to cover their cost! he says the rate increase should eliminate that. “i think that it moves th company closer to being fair to all of residential customers as opposed to some having to subsidize the others.” city council will vote on this proposal next tuesday. the process will then go to the state on the 13th. the public utility commission of texas will ultimately decide whether or not it will be approved. stormtrack weather now. the weather is looking nice and clear the rest of the day