Oklahoma Corporation Commissioners voted 3-0 this week to grant a protective order to Oklahoma Gas and Electric as the utility moves forward with its latest rate hike request, one totaling $332 million which would force residential ratepayers to cough up another $19 a month.
The request for the protective order was considered routine as the utility seeks to maintain certain business practices and records. But Commissioner Bob Anthony sought answers to questions about the need for such an order and an attorney for OG&E explained it was standard practice as the utility has done for the last several years.
It was the first of several steps the utility must take before the three corporation commissioners take a vote on the company’s request. If they were to approve the request, it would result in a monthly increase of $19.02 for residential customers or another 13.85%.