Wwp Gas Rates Up 10 Percent?

Natural gas rates for Washington Water Power Co. residential customers in Washington will go up almost 10 percent if regulators approve a proposed settlement announced Tuesday.

The deal, negotiated by the staff of the Utilities and Transportation Commission, WWP, industrial customers and the attorney general representing consumers, would add $3.64 to an average monthly residential bill in two steps.

On Jan. 1, the monthly basic charge would increase to $3.80 from $3.25. The cost of the gas itself would also increase slightly.

Around next Nov. 1, the monthly fee would go to $4, the amount the company had sought when the increase was filed last July.

No further increases would be allowed until the year 2000 except in extraordinary circumstances, according to a commission news release.

Although the company could also seek an increase this month to allow for higher gas costs, officials said Tuesday none may be necessary.

An interactive videoconference on the settlement will be held at 7 p.m. Dec. 17 at the Educational Service District 101 offices at 910 N.Ash.

Public testimony will be taken at that time. The commissioners, who act independently of their staff, are expected to act on the settlement before the end of the year.

WWP had sought a 15.6 percent rate increase. , DataTimes