Office of the Ohio Consumers’ Counsel

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PUCO adjusts Dominion revenue increase amount

COLUMBUS, Ohio — December 19, 2008 — The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) today approved a change to its original order in the Dominion distribution rate case. The decision restored the amount of the annual revenue increase for the natural gas utility to $40.5 million, the amount authorized in the stipulated agreement signed by the Office of the Ohio Consumers’ Counsel, the PUCO staff, Dominion and other interested parties and approved by the Commission on August 25.

The annual increase is being absorbed by ratepayers largely in the form of a 250 percent hike in Dominion’s flat-rate customer charge. Since Oct.15, customers have paid an increased monthly customer fee of $12.50 per month. That cost is due to go up to $15.40 per month in October 2009. Corresponding reductions in the usage-based portion of customers’ bills were approved as part of the PUCO’s order.

The OCC had filed an application for rehearing at the PUCO which was denied. “We continue to be disappointed,” said Janine Migden-Ostrander, Consumers’ Counsel, “that the Commission ignored the testimony of so many residents who argued that they did not want their rates restructured so that distribution costs will now be almost entirely a flat rate with little opportunity for customers to save money through reduced use.”

About the Office of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel

The Office of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel (OCC), the residential utility consumer advocate, represents the interests of 4.5 million households in proceedings before state and federal regulators and in the courts. The state agency also educates consumers about electric, natural gas, telephone and water issues and resolves complaints from individuals. To receive utility information, brochures, schedule a presentation or file a utility complaint, residential consumers may call 1-877-PICKOCC (1-877-742-5622) toll free in Ohio or visit the OCC Web site at www.pickocc.org.