Regulators Consider Changing Power Usage Limits (KFWB) -- The California Public Utilities Commission is considering changing the baseline allowances for residential gas and electricity customers. The allowances are set for each community based on calculations of average use in the area. Rate increases are charged for usage that's 30 percent above the limit and higher. The increases depend on how much above the limit a customer goes.

The commission will consider factoring in additional variables, such as climate and exemptions for those who rely upon life-support equipment. A proposal might be ready for discussion by September.

For residential customers of Southern California Edison, here's how the rate increases are currently determined:

Electricity usage below 130 percent of baseline (tiers one and two) has zero increase. Electricity usage between 130 and 200 percent of baseline faces a 30 percent increase. An average monthly bill of $69 would rise by $4, or 6 percent. Electricity usage between 200 and 300 percent of baseline faces a 56 percent increase. An average monthly bill of $105 would rise by $21. or 20 percent. Electricity usage beyond 300 percent of baseline faces a 71 percent increase. An average monthly bill of $194 would rise by $71, or 37 percent. You can check the baseline standard in your neighborhood here.

http://www.kfwb.com/news/local/l052514.html

-- Martin Thompson (mthom1927@aol.com), May 26, 2001

Answers

I hope family size (the number of persons being serviced by a given electrical meter) is a factor being considered in setting baseline allowances.

-- Robert Riggs (rxr.999@worldnet.att.net), May 26, 2001.