Pryor commends OUCC recommendation to deny AES hike

Today, Sept. 10, the Indiana Office of the Utility Consumer Counselor (OUCC) issued its recommendations for the pending rate request from AES. The pending request would increase customers' bills anywhere between $21 and $30 per month if approved. After over 6,700 public comments were filed, the OUCC recommended that the request be denied, the company's return on equity be lowered to 8.5% and monthly customer service fees be reduced by $5.75.  

State Rep. Cherrish Pryor (D-Indianapolis) issued the following statement:

“Thank you to the OUCC for standing with Hoosiers who cannot afford higher utility bills.  Hoosier families should not have to choose between keeping their lights on and other needs. This is evidence of the power of the people and the importance of community. Our collective voice made an impact with thousands of Hoosiers standing up for their neighbors. On Aug. 25, I stood with my community and testified against these rate hikes, and I'm thankful for the OUCC for listening to what Hoosiers had to say.

“AES customers have watched their bills skyrocket over the past several years with little to show for it. Services have not improved, but the company’s investors continue to see their return on equity rise. AES has an ROE of 9.9%, the highest of any electric utility in the state, and its request would increase that number to 10.7%. Hoosiers should not be drowning in monthly costs to line the pockets of global investors. 

“I fully support the recommendations from the OUCC. This sends a clear message that the time for profit over people shouldn't rule the day.  Our voice was heard by OUCC, but ratepayers must keep pressure on the IURC to deny AES rate hike as well.” 

 The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission will hold an evidentiary hearing on Nov. 3, 2025. A final decision from the Commission is expected by the spring of 2026.