Utilities Propose Rate Hikes

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West Lafayette-based American Suburban Utilities Inc. and Northern Indiana Public Service Co. in Merrillville are seeking approval from the state to raise rates. ASU is looking to fund projects including a wastewater treatment plant expansion and sewage infrastructure improvements. NIPSCO’s proposals include $95 million in system upgrades.

ASU says flat, monthly residential sewer rate would jump from $47.50 to $93.36 over the course of a three-phase increase. Its major capital improvements include the Carriage Estates Wastewater Treatment Plant, the Klondike Road Project and the completed Big 3 Sewer Project. These three projects are expected to be complete by 2018 if funding is secured. Customers can provide feedback on the proposal through the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor.

NIPSCO serves customers in more than 30 counties and says, since its last electricity rate increase in 2010, it has pumped tens of millions of dollars into system reliability upgrades and meter elimination efforts. If approved, the $10.53 per month increase would take effect in the middle of next year. More information on the proposal is available at NIPSCO’s website.