The Hawaii Public Utilities Commission (PUC) will conduct a series of hearings where consumers, stakeholders, and the public can express their opinions and ask questions regarding the proposed gas rate changes by Hawai’i Gas, the state’s regulated gas utility.
Hawai’i Gas filed a request for a rate adjustment with the PUC. The rate adjustment will affect monthly bills for residents and businesses across the state.
Hawai’i Gas is seeking an increase in total revenue of approximately 17.67%. However, the impact on consumers will vary depending on factors such as gas usage, customer classification (residential or commercial), and island of residence.
Those who cannot attend the public hearings, virtually or in person, are encouraged to send written comments to PUC.
“Attending the public hearings or submitting your comments ensures your voice is heard and your concerns are considered. Together, we can ensure that the final decision reflects the needs and interests of everyone across the state,” noted Executive Director of the Division of Consumer Advocacy (DCA), Michael Angelo.
Hawai’i Gas cites rising operational costs, compliance with regulatory requirements, and ongoing infrastructure investments as reasons for the increase. DCA acknowledges these challenges for Hawai’i Gas but its role is to evaluate the proposed rates and aim to minimize the potential financial burden on consumers.
The public hearings are essential in helping the PUC and DCA understand the broader impact of the proposed adjustments to individuals, families, and businesses.
See below the schedule of the remaining in-person public hearings:
October 25, 5:30 pm – Oahu
PUC O’ahu Office, 465 South King Street, Room 103, Honolulu
October 28, 5 pm – Kona, Hawaii Island
Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority, Hale Iako Building, Collaboration Area, 73-987 Makako Bay Drive, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740
October 29, 5 pm – Hilo, Hawaii Island
University of Hawaii Campus Center, Room 301, Hilo, Hawaii 96720
For the schedule of the remaining virtual public hearings, please visit https://puc.hawaii.gov/news-release/notice-of-public-hearing-hawaii-gas-rate-case-docket-no-2024-0158/.
For those interested in submitting written comments, ensure that the letter references Docket No. 2024-0158 and includes the author’s name and the organization the author represents, if any.
Submit the written comments online at https://hpuc.my.site.com/cdms/s/consumers/public-comments, email to puc@hawaii.gov, or mail to Hawai’i Public Utilities Commission, 465 South King Street, #103, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813.
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