In a passionate plea during the recent City Council meeting, a local resident and business customer of AES Indiana urged the commission to reject the utility's proposal for increased rates, citing the financial strain on families and communities amid rising inflation. The speaker highlighted the unique challenges faced by customers of AES, describing the company as a monopoly with no alternative options for electricity, leaving residents vulnerable to price hikes.

The resident called for significant action from the commission, specifically requesting a reduction in AES's return on equity. They pointed out that AES already boasts the highest profit margin among Indiana's major electric utilities, arguing that it is unjust for the company to seek higher profits while families struggle to afford basic necessities. By lowering AES's return on equity, the resident believes the commission could help keep electricity rates more manageable and prioritize the needs of customers over corporate profits.

This appeal underscores the growing concern among residents regarding utility costs and the impact on their daily lives, as they seek relief from financial burdens in an increasingly challenging economic landscape. The outcome of this discussion could have significant implications for AES Indiana's pricing strategies and the overall affordability of electricity for local families.