The Oregon Public Utility Commission (OPUC) has approved an overall price increase for Portland General Electric Co. (PGE) customers of about 0.89% beginning Jan. 1. The new prices reflect, in part, PGE’s investments to enhance power supply flexibility for the efficient integration of more renewable energy.
PGE says its other system investments include protections against service disruptions from storms, earthquakes and cyberattacks. Based in Portland, Ore., PGE serves approximately 873,000 customers in 51 cities.
Together with other adjustments currently at the OPUC for review, this will result in an overall price increase of about 2.3%. A typical residential customer, using an average of 820 kWh per month, will see his or her average monthly bill go up about $4 – from $97 to $101.
“We do not take price increases for electric service lightly,” says Jim Piro, PGE CEO. “The new prices reflect extensive analysis and review by regulators and stakeholders, as well as our own team here at PGE. The updated prices support necessary investments in a stronger and more flexible grid that will help keep our service reliable and resilient.”
According to PGE, the OPUC’s action on prices for 2018 is the culmination of a 10-month independent review process that included active participation by customer advocates and other stakeholders, as well as representatives from PGE.
