Just noticed Ameren Missouri added a "Storm Damage Recovery Surcharge" to several client bills starting in December. The charge is $0.008/kWh for Schedule LGS customers and appears to be system-wide. Problem is, I can't find any PSC approval documents or rate case filings authorizing this surcharge. The utility is claiming it's for December 2023 ice storm costs but they should need explicit approval for storm recovery charges. Anyone else seeing this unauthorized surcharge?
Unauthorized storm damage surcharge on Ameren Missouri bills
John, that sounds like a classic unauthorized surcharge situation. Here in Colorado, Xcel tried something similar after the Marshall Fire and the PUC shut it down immediately. Storm recovery costs usually have to go through a specific regulatory process with hearings and cost justification. You should file an emergency complaint - customers shouldn't pay for costs that haven't been approved.
Gil, I'm preparing the complaint now. The surcharge is generating about $45,000/month across my client base, so this isn't small change. What's particularly suspicious is that Ameren's last rate case included storm cost recovery in base rates. They might be trying to double-recover these expenses. Did Xcel have to provide refunds when the PUC stopped their unauthorized charges?
Yes, Xcel had to refund everything plus interest. The PUC was particularly harsh because Xcel knew they needed approval but went ahead anyway. In your case, check if Ameren has a storm cost deferral account - they might be trying to accelerate recovery without following proper procedures. The Missouri PSC doesn't mess around with unauthorized charges.
This is exactly the kind of utility overreach we need to stop immediately. John, I'd be happy to support your complaint with similar cases from other jurisdictions. Here in Tennessee, we've seen utilities try to implement "emergency" surcharges without proper approval, thinking they can get retroactive blessing later. File that complaint ASAP and request immediate suspension of the charges pending PSC review.
Randy, I appreciate the support. Complaint filed this morning with the Missouri PSC requesting immediate suspension and full refunds. The documentation clearly shows Ameren never filed for storm recovery authority and their base rates already include storm cost provisions. This should be a slam dunk case - will update everyone on the PSC response.