Twelve electric utilities filed new general rate cases in Q3 2016. Of those utilities, all but one proposed raising its monthly charge for residential customers, with five seeking to raise that charge by 50% or more.*

EQ Research and GTM offer a handy summary of rate case activities that occurred during Q3 2016. The graphics and data provided include:

• An interactive U.S. map depicting all rate cases in progress.
• For the 12 new rate cases initiated during Q3 2016, a table describing proposed increases to monthly charge for residential customers.
• For the rate cases that concluded during Q3 2016, a table describing the existing vs. proposed vs. approved monthly charge for residential customers.

To access this data via GTM Squared, click here. (Use the promotional code EQR50 to receive a $50 discount on a GTM Squared annual subscription through November 30.)

Through the rate case process, dozens of utilities have proposed rate revisions that would erode the value of customer-sited DG, energy efficiency and energy conservation. These proposals include:

• Raising the monthly charge for certain customer classes, while sometimes also reducing volumetric (i.e., kWh) charges.
• Imposing a demand charge and/or other fees on DG customers, including solar PV customers.
• Creating a separate customer class for DG customers.
• Reducing the value of — or eliminating — net metering.

EQ Research offers a service that summarizes new rate case filings by electric utilities, as well as a database of all rate case filings since July 1, 2014. For details, click here.

* In 2015, the National Association of State Utility Consumer Advocates (NASUCA) passed a resolution (Resolution 2015-1) that strongly opposes higher monthly fixed charges.