Volunteers Join in the Fight to Keep Utility Rates Fair

Months after helping to defeat what could have been one of the largest utility rate hikes in state history, AARP Oklahoma is gearing up to fight additional proposals to increase rates in 2016.

Oklahoma Gas & Electric (OG&E) sought a $1.1 billion increase in 2015, but the Oklahoma Corporation Commission (OCC) rejected it. If approved, the proposed hike would have raised rates by up to 19 percent by 2019. AARP volunteers played a role in blocking the increase by sending emails to the OCC.

“The commission’s decision sent a clear signal that consumers should not be forced to give utility companies an open checkbook to pay for potential future costs,” said Sean Voskuhl, AARP state director.

The two largest utilities in the state—OG&E and Public Service Company of Oklahoma, a subsidiary of American Electric Power—have proposed new rate increases for 2016. To get involved and make your voice heard on utility issues, go to action.aarp.org/ok.