by Mindy Aguon

Guam - The Public Utilities Commission will decide tonight when the Guam Power Authority's request for a new surcharge new surcharge will take effect. GPA spokesperson Art Perez says the request was delayed last year because of settlement funds the agency used toward paying one of its bonds, but since that money has run out, the utility is now looking to impose a working capital surcharge which would be an estimated $4.66 more on an average consumer's bill.

Perez told KUAM News, "Working capital fund is a revenue bond requirement wherein the Authority needs to have operating revenues for about a month it's a requirement from bond companies to ensure there's funds available to ensure continuity of operations."

The PUC meanwhile has already begun its 45-day review of GPA's 18% proposed increase to the Levelized Energy Adjustment Clause. That would equate to a $20 increase in the average power bill and, if approved, would take effect August 1.