NIPSCO customers say their bills skyrocketed after meter replacements
(WNDU) — Dozens of NIPSCO customers have contacted WNDU 16 News Now saying their electricity and gas bills have skyrocketed in recent months, with many reporting dramatic increases after the utility company replaced their meters.
PREVIOUS REPORTING: NIPSCO customers report dramatic utility bill increases, demand answers
Tela Sattrwhite, a Gary resident, said her monthly gas and electricity bills jumped from about $200 to $500 after NIPSCO replaced her gas meter in late October.
“And the servicemen serviced the meter and ever since then, it’s like my bill has skyrocketed,” Sattrwhite said.
Customers report similar experiences across Michiana
Jody Lopez, a NIPSCO customer from Walkerton, said her gas bill nearly doubled after a meter replacement.
“In the winter, it’s never been over $100. So, last month I paid like $136. And then this month went up to $187,” Lopez said.
According to NIPSCO’s website, the company began using its Advanced Metering Infrastructure in March 2024 to replace old meters. The new system allows the company to check meters without sending out a crew.
State investigation underway
The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission initiated an investigation in November concerning NIPSCO’s natural gas customer meters that appear to have resulted in billing discrepancies.
In the commission’s document, NIPSCO acknowledged there was “an issue” with how the new meters calculate gas supply charges.
NIPSCO did not immediately respond to WNDU’s request for comment regarding the ongoing investigation by the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission.
Delivery fees also under scrutiny
Customers also point to delivery fees as a concern on their NIPSCO bills.
“Because, like I say, my bill was only $59. With the delivery charges, my bill was $187,” Lopez said. “I did look at my past bills, and the delivery charge was never that high.”
Sattrwhite said the delivery charges are creating financial hardship.
“The delivery charges are outrageous. Like, at this point, we’re deciding, are we going to pay NIPSCO to keep utilities? Or are we going to put food on our table?” she said.
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