Hearings began this week for Progress Energy rate increase

The Florida Public Service Commission this week began hearings in Tallahassee on a proposed rate increase for Progress energy Florida. The company is seeking a 446 million dollar increase in its base rates for its 1.6 million customers in 35 Florida counties. If it’s approved it would be the first general base rate increase since 1993. The proposed increase is opposed by the governor, Florida’s attorney General, and the Franklin County commission all of whom feel this is a bad time to increase costs for Florida rate payers. The hearings are expected to continue through the week, but could extend through October 2nd if necessary.