From The Columbus Dispatch
American Electric Power is getting a do-over in the form of a public hearing scheduled for Feb. 12.
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio said the hearing will make up for the fact that AEP did not file proper notice of hearings that took place last April for a proposal to change electricity rates through 2024.
“While it is apparent that many consumers were aware of the hearings, the attorney examiner finds it necessary to conduct another public hearing to ensure the public is notified of these proceedings and afforded an opportunity to provide testimony,” according to a filing made Monday by a PUCO administrative law judge.
The lack of notice, which by law must be published as an ad in local newspapers, meant that the PUCO and AEP were violating state rules for this type of rate plan.
AEP notified the commission of the error and asked for the notice rule to be waived. Consumer advocates objected to this.
As an alternative, AEP said it could hold an extra hearing, which is the option the utility has chosen.
AEP has said the rate plan would lead to a first-year increase of about $1 per month for households.
The hearing is scheduled for 6 p.m. Feb. 12 in the Cardinal Classroom at the Ohio History Center, 800 E. 17th Ave.