The company said its average systemwide bundled electric rate will decrease 0.8 percent on Jan. 1.
That rate change will be followed by a slight forecasted increase in March 2011 that is approximately 2.3 percent less than what the rate was in March 2010, the company reported.
Actual bill impacts in March will vary depending on usage, PG&E said.
“We know our customers care more than ever about their electricity bills during these tough economic times so we are focused on keeping rates down,” said Tom Bottorff, senior vice president of Regulatory Relations for PG&E. “Smart energy purchasing strategies coupled with lower gas prices have allowed us to pass on savings to the millions of Californians who rely on us for their energy needs.”
The January rate change reflects higher operating costs offset by lower energy purchasing costs, according to the PG&E report.
The company said the March rate change will take into account additional transmission-related costs and is expected to include the utility’s 2011-13 General Rate Case revenue requirements.
PG&E in September filed a settlement with consumer groups on its General Rate Case revenue request and expects a California Public Utilities Commission decision in early 2011.
The company said rates for its natural gas customers around the state would stay about the same in January 2011 as in January 2010, as increased costs for maintenance, operation and mandated social programs will be offset by a decrease in natural gas prices.
The average residential gas bill, however, may be slightly higher than last January because of increased usage driven by colder temperatures, PG&E reported.
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