Joseph M. Pence
745 N. Barbee Way 
Louisville, KY 40217
Phone:
E-Mail:


I request that the Public Service Commission reject the proposed rate increase by Louisville Gas & Electric, case 2014-00372. While I understand the need for rate increases, this proposed increase represents a 67 percent increase in the basic service charge for gas and electric costs, which will impact all customers the same, whether they are in a 600-square foot efficiency apartment or a 6,000-square foot mansion. The increase represents a disincentive to those customers who are working toward/thinking about reducing consumption, increasing efficiency, and adding renewable energy to the grid; as it impacts the portion of their monthly bill that cannot be controlled. The measure also represents a basic costs increase of $165 dollars a year, which in the case of the utilities provided is the essential cost of having an refrigerator, a working air conditioner, or gas heating in the winter. The proposed increase is a burden on the poor, fixed income customers, and those most responsible, and I urge the commission to reject this proposal in favor of a more balanced approach that takes into consideration these impacts along with LG&E's concerns. Thank you for your time and consideration.