PSC spokesperson Bill Edge said the commission voted 4 to 1 to reduce the company's request from $3.8 million a year to $3 million a year.
"So basically this means the customer's average bill will go up $3 a month," he said.
Edge said Atmos listed the declining economy and a dwindling customer base as reasons for an annual increase in its base rates.
The new rates go into effect on April 1.
Edge said the Commission held three rounds of hearings at which the company, commission staff, other interested parties, also known as intervenors, and the public were allowed to present testimony and evidence in support of their positions in this case. He said the Commission heard from 14 witnesses during the hearings. The commission also held a public comment meeting in Gainesville and heard from a number of public speakers.
The PSC last approved an increase in Atmos Energy's base rates in 2008.
Atmos Energy serves approximately 57,000 customers in Columbus and Gainesville, Georgia.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2010/3/228207