Statement Regarding Proposed Duke Energy Settlement

“AARP urges the South Carolina Public Service Commission put people first and reconsider the proposed settlement in the Duke Energy case as agreed to by interveners, the Office of Regulatory Staff, and Duke Energy.  As the proposed settlement reads, residential electric customers will shoulder a more than 10% rate increase during the next two years while rates for commercial and retail businesses would only rise an average of 6.42% over the same period.  Small business would see rates rise only by 3.42%.  That’s not fair to South Carolinians – to our seniors and hard-working families.”

 “Throughout this process, AARP members have attended hearings, expressing opposition and concern to yet another electric rate increase. The PSC heard numerous pleas from upstate residents that they could not withstand the impact of a double digit rate hike.  For seniors and South Carolina families, electricity is a basic necessity that they often struggle to afford.”

 “An online survey conducted by AARP in June found that more than 87% of respondents had difficulty or knew someone who had difficulty paying their electric bill. Almost 98% said that the PSC should not allow Duke Energy to increase residential electric rates.”

“AARP will continue to fight to make sure South Carolinians’ voices are heard in this process.  We appeal to the Public Service Commission: Put hardworking people and families first, and make sure Duke Energy only receives what is fair and reasonable for their service – and not a dime more.”