Progress Energy cutsomers to get refund

Progress Energy customers will get a small refund from the company to make up for overcharges in fuel costs in 2006 and 2007. The Florida Public Service Commission Tuesday told Progress Energy Florida to refund more than $7.6 million dollars to its customers. Don’t expect a big check, though, the utility provides electricity to more than 1.6 million customers in 35 counties throughout Florida. The refunds should be made to customers with interest in 2010. The Public Service Commission said the refund is a result of the company burning a more expensive coal blend than necessary at its Crystal River Units. Although Progress argued that its coal purchases were prudent and saved customers $3.1 million during 2006 and 2007, the Public Service Commission disagreed.