LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — An investigation into Summit Utilities' billing and purchase practices of natural gas is officially underway.
Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin and customers said their bills skyrocketed at the beginning of the year.
The Public Service Commission, which regulates natural gas companies, is investigating. Interim Executive Director Jeff Hilton said this case is a first of its kind.
"I don't know if I've seen that experience of having the level that's come about that's a result of Summit's billing," Hilton said.
The Public Service Commission was introduced to Summit when they took over CenterPoint Energy last year.
Hilton said there were no known issues until last December when Summit took charge.
All parties involved exchange and review records, including the attorney general's office, which initiated this case.
"Through a discovery process where we send them questions and they respond," Hilton said.
Chairman Doyle Webb, Katie Anderson and Justin Tate comprise the Public Service Commission.
After all the briefs and responses have been submitted, the commission will decide on a ruling.
A decision is expected as soon as this summer if no requests for extensions exist.
Summit Utilities said they support the investigation and will file their testimony next week.