More hearings ordered on FirstEnergy proposed deal

COLUMBUS (AP) — Action on a proposed settlement allowing short-term rate increases for about 12 million FirstEnergy customers in Ohio to subsidize some of the utility’s older power plants could be delayed.

The Plain Dealer of Cleveland reports an administrative judge with the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio says the proposal involves new issues not covered in an earlier seven-week trial and has set more hearings beginning in January.

FirstEnergy submitted an 8-year settlement agreement to regulators this month, hoping for a decision by Feb.10.

Opponents say the deal would cost customers an extra $3.9 billion over eight years.

The Akron-based utility projects average monthly electric bills would increase $3.25 the first year, but later customer rebates would total $560 million.

FirstEnergy says it still hopes for a decision early next year.