Are high electric bills becoming a burden for residents in Mohave County, Arizona? State lawmakers are urging the Arizona Corporation Commission to address this issue and provide relief to those affected.
Residents in Kingman and Lake Havasu, customers of UniSource Energy, have raised concerns about skyrocketing electricity bills that are straining local businesses and the elderly population. Several letters have been sent to the commission highlighting the financial difficulties faced due to these increased utility costs.
One customer shared, “The electricity rate hikes in Lake Havasu are unbearable. Many are forced to choose between paying their electric bills or buying food.” Another mentioned taking a part-time job to cover the higher costs.
In response, Commissioner Lea Márquez-Peterson proposed revisiting the UniSource rate case to possibly modify rate design and provide relief. However, the utility provider argued that the rate adjustments were justified due to rising temperatures in Mohave County and offered their “budget billing” program as a way to ease the financial burden on consumers.
Despite efforts to address the issue, Commission Chairman Jim O’Connor rejected the reconsideration of the rate case. In light of this decision, state representatives from Mohave County have written a letter urging Chairman O’Connor to reconsider and discuss seasonal electricity rates.
The lawmakers emphasized the importance of considering the impact on residents, especially those on fixed incomes, who are struggling to manage essential expenses amidst the rising utility costs. They called for a balanced approach that takes into account the needs of residents while maintaining a stable regulatory environment.
