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Progress Energy seeks lower fuel surcharge

By Kevin Spear/Sentinel Staff Writer

Progress Energy proposed Monday a drop of nearly 18 percent next year in the fuel surcharge on residential power bills.

At the same time, the utility is seeking a slightly bigger increase in the base portion of its bills.

When all of the proposed changes are combined, including nuclear and environmental charges, Progress is looking for a monthly increase of $8.17 for 1,000 kilowatt-hours, which is slightly less than the average household uses but typical for comparison purposes.

If the changes are approved by the Florida Public Service Commission later this year, Progress’ residential customers would see their monthly bills increase from $127.31 to $135.48 for 1,000 kilowatt-hours.

Meanwhile, Florida Power & Light Co. proposes lowering its overall monthly bill from $109 to $100, while Orlando Utilities Commission has extended its current monthly charge of $119 into next year — in both cases for the same 1,000 kilowatt hours.

Central Florida’s three biggest utilities have all seen a big drop in natural-gas prices and a steady decline in coal prices.

Kevin Spear can be reached at kspear@orlandosentinel.com or 407-420-5062.