Oklahoma Gas and Electric (OG&E) is reportedly advising its customers of a proposed rate hike to recoup nearly $875 million in costs incurred from winter storms that resulted in rolling blackouts across Oklahoma, including Seminole County, in February.

According to OK Energy Today, advisories are being sent in the mail with utility bills, telling customers that the Oklahoma Corporation Commission is scheduled to begin hearings at OG&E’s request. The hearing, as the advisory stated, will be to determine whether OG&E’s “fuel, purchased power, and related costs of approximately $875 million resulting from the February 2021 winter storm were prudently incurred.”

Customers are being informed if the rate hike is approved, it would result in an increased monthly charge of approximately $3.93 for the average residential customer.

The hearing will be held Oct. 11 at 8:30 a.m. before an Administrative Law Judge. If a customer wants to

If a customer wants to include their comments for the hearing, they can mail them to the Clerk, Oklahoma Corporation Commission, 2101 N. Lincoln Blvd, OKC, OK. 3105. The comments should be titled “Public Comment” and include a reference to “PUD 202100072,” the case number.

OG&E has a franchise agreement for electrical services with the cities of Konawa, Seminole, Wewoka and the town of Cromwell.