Dominion Energy has announced its intention to request a rate change for its customers in South Carolina, specifically regarding the base rate. This change, if approved, would affect the base rate charged to thousands of customers in the state. For a typical residential customer consuming 1,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity per month, the proposed rate adjustment would result in an average monthly increase of approximately $5 on their bill. The base rate encompasses the costs associated with providing service to customers and allows the company to earn a fair and reasonable profit, as determined by the Public Service Commission of South Carolina.
According to Dominion Energy, the proposed rate change comes after significant investments in system improvements, with over 40,000 new customers added since 2019 and nearly $2 billion spent on enhancing the infrastructure. Despite this being the first base rate increase in nearly four years, some customers are expressing concerns about the potential financial impact.
Ethan Cestaro, a recent resident of Columbia, voiced apprehension about the potential increase, citing existing financial obligations such as car payments and student loans. While he acknowledges the necessity of rising costs, especially with the upcoming summer months and increased electricity usage, he hopes that any adjustments will contribute to a safer and more environmentally sustainable energy system.
Doug Breland, a homeowner in Richland County, expressed hope that a potential rate increase by Dominion Energy would translate into improved service quality. While acknowledging the financial strain that incremental increases can impose, Breland emphasized the importance of receiving satisfactory services in exchange for the costs incurred. As a homeowner himself, he views expenses related to utilities such as electricity and water as significant factors that impact household budgets.
Breland’s sentiment reflects a common concern among consumers about the balance between cost and service quality. He likened the situation to feeling burdened by incremental expenses, suggesting a need for careful consideration of utility rates and their impact on residents.
News 19 pledges to provide ongoing updates as the rate change request undergoes evaluation by the Public Service Commission, keeping the community informed about any developments in this matter.