A report by Arkansas Business indicated the Arkansas Public Service Commission ruled this week against Attorney General Tim Griffin in a controversial rate hike proposed by Summit Utilities.
At the same time, Summit’s fuel costs in Oklahoma are before state regulators.
The Commission determined that Griffin could not renegotiate a settlement agreement he had previously signed. The deal involves Summit’s $87.7 million rate hike request which would jack up residential bills by another $15.43 on average.
Griffin initially agreed after 8 months to the rate hike request but when Arkansas legislators voiced resentment and opposition, he changed his mind. The Public Service Commissioners determined he did not show “good cause” to reopen negotiations. Under the ruling, Griffin can no longer submit testimony or evidence against the settlement.
The Commission has until Nov. 22 to reach a decision on the rate hike.
Summit Utilities served an average of 98,800 customers in 38 counties in Oklahoma and has a current fuel adjustment clause review underway before Corporation Commissioners.
The Commission’s Public Utility Division last week recommended approval of the $35,043,103 spent by Summit on the purchase of natural gas last year. It urged commissioners to approval the fuel costs and recovery for alendar year 2023.
Pittsburg, Pontotoc, Pottawatomie, Roger Mills, Seminole, Stephens, Washita and Woodward.
