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PUC sets Molokai gas rate hearing

The state Public Utilities Commission will be holding a hearing on Molokai on Hawaii Gas’ proposed statewide increase in utility rates at 2 p.m. Jan. 23 at Kulana ‘Oiwi Office of Hawaiian Affairs Conference Room in Kaunakakai.

The Gas Co., doing business as Hawaii Gas, has asked the commission for an average statewide increase of about 15 percent in rates, which the company hopes will generate $15 million more in revenue.

That means a typical residential bill would increase by $14.50 per month on Maui and $4.55 on Molokai, while decreasing by $4.15 per month on Lanai.

Maui, Molokai and Lanai customers of Hawaii Gas would all pay the same rates on their residential bills if the company gets approval to increase its rates statewide.

Company officials said the reason they decided to “harmonize” rates across Maui County was so that projects — such as adding storage to the Lanai and Molokai systems — would have less of an impact on residents’ overall bills.

Meetings on Maui and Lanai have already been held.

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