NV Energy files for small rate increase
CARSON CITY — NV Energy filed a request Friday with the Public Utilities Commission for a small rate increase to reflect changes in its purchased power costs and funds lost due to greater energy conservation by its customers in 2013.
The company wants an additional $8.8 million from Southern Nevada customers, which is an overall increase of about 0.40 percent.
For residential customers, the increase is less than 0.30 percent, or 41 cents per month for the average residential customer. The typical family uses 1,245 kilowatt hours a month.
NV Energy is permitted to pass on to customers any increase in the cost of fuels it purchases to generate electricity. This is a straight pass through to customers and does not generate any additional profit. The company also may recover a portion of the funds it loses because of greater energy conservation by customers.
The rate changes, if approved by the PUC, would go into effect Oct. 1. An as-yet unscheduled consumer session will be conducted by the PUC before higher rates are approved.
Jennifer Schuricht, public relations manager for NV Energy’s south region, said the company refunded $11 million to Southern Nevada customers who made energy efficiency improvements in 2013, so even with the pending increase these customers save on overall costs.
The filing Friday was part of an annual review, ending Dec. 31, that NV Energy performed on all its fuel and purchased power costs during 2013.
Contact Capital Bureau Chief Ed Vogel at evogel@reviewjournal.com or call 775-687-3901
