(INDIANAPOLIS) - Indiana regulators are demanding answers from utility companies as energy bills continue to rise across the state.
The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission held an investigative inquiry Tuesday at the PNC Center in downtown Indianapolis, questioning leaders from five major utilities, including NIPSCO and Indiana Michigan Power.
Commissioners pressed companies on how rates are set, rising costs, and what can be done to bring relief to customers.
IURC Chairman Andy Zay said growing complaints from Hoosiers--and concerns from lawmakers--prompted the inquiry, noting many customers have lost trust in their utility providers.
During the hearing, utility executives were questioned about billing practices, including delivery fees and the relationship between rising bills and company profits.
A state lawmaker who attended said he was disappointed in the responses, saying utilities did not clearly explain how rates could be lowered.
Utility companies defended their pricing, pointing to infrastructure investments and system reliability, while acknowledging the need to improve communication with customers.
The IURC says the inquiry is the first phase of a broader effort. Public listening sessions are planned across the state, including stops in LaPorte and Goshen, where residents will be encouraged to share concerns and bring copies of their utility bills.