Many Indiana utilities are allowed to raise rates only with the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission's (IURC's) approval.
- Rate cases are formal, legal proceedings. The IURC serves as the "judge and jury."
- Utilities present rate requests through attorneys and expert witnesses.
- The Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor (OUCC) - a state agency separate from the IURC - has attorneys and technical experts who participate in IURC cases on behalf of consumer interests.
- Other parties may intervene under Commission rules.
The OUCC's infographic offers an overview of a typical rate case's steps, with our Guide to State Utility Regulatory Proceedings offering more details.
- Consumer comments are invited in all rate cases. The OUCC's Speaking Out on Pending Cases fact sheet offers more information.
- Utilities with fewer than 8,000 customers can use the small utility filing process. It can reduce a rate case's time and expenses, but the standard of OUCC and IURC review is no different from a typical case.
Some types of utilities are not under IURC jurisdiction. They include rural electric membership cooperatives and most municipal utilities. The OUCC offers:
- Answers to Frequently Asked Questions.
- An overview of advantages and disadvantages of withdrawing from IURC oversight.
- More specific information for customers of municipal utilities and REMCs.
Additional Resources: