Indiana Utility Watchdog Challenges $71 Million AES Indiana Rate Hike

The Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor filed a petition for rehearing and reconsideration with the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission to block a $71 million rate increase for AES Indiana. The state watchdog argues the commission failed to adequately weigh affordability and unfairly shifted costs to ratepayers, specifically citing expenses for major storms, vacant payroll positions, and the company's return on equity rate.

The Citizens Action Coalition announced plans to join the petition, stating that residential customers are bearing the brunt of the burden. The group also highlighted a deal for BlackRock and other investors to acquire the parent company of AES Indiana as a point of concern.

AES Indiana stated it is reviewing the petition and has announced new efficiency and low-income support programs. The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission must now decide within 60 days whether to uphold, correct, reverse, or reopen the case. Governor Mike Braun has criticized the rate increase and initiated a shakeup of the regulatory commission.