Rhode Island Energy proposes to lower electric rates, increase gas rates

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Rhode Island Energy said Thursday that customers will see a “significant” drop in their electric bill starting next month.

However, under a proposal, ratepayers will see an increase in their gas bills.

The utility company said in a release Thursday customers could see a decrease of $17 a month in their electric bill. This is based on a new rate proposal filed with the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission.

Dave Bonenberger, president of Rhode Island Energy, said if approved, residents using 500 kWh per month could see a price drop of more than 25% on their supply bill.

A small to mid-size commercial customer, Bonenberger, said could see a 27% to 28% decrease on their bill.

The newly proposed rates would be in effect April 1 through Sept. 30.

“For the families and businesses we serve, the proposed [electric] rates should be welcome news,” Bonenberger said.

However, the proposal would see a roughly estimated $51 a year in customers’ gas bills.

Last year, the Public Utilities Commission said Rhode Islanders would see an average net monthly increase of $50 to their electric bill and more that a $200 annual hike in gas rates.

A hearing on the proposal is scheduled for Tuesday night.