Public hearing held on SCE&G rate hike request

SOUTH CAROLINA - State utility regulators are considering a request by South Carolina Electric & Gas Co. for a midyear rate increase based on increased fuel costs.

The state Public Service Commission held a public hearing on the company's request, but did not make a decision. The commission could formally take a vote on the request as early as Oct. 29.

The state agency that serves as a watchdog on utility cases has brokered an agreement between the company and those opposed to the rate increase that would allow SCE&G to charge an additional 6 percent — about half what the company wanted.

According to the Office of Regulatory Staff, typical customers using 1,000 kilowatt hours a month would be charged about $6 more each month. The office said that would result in about a $114 monthly bill.