Austin Energy's latest rate review yielded several recommendations presented to the Austin Energy Utility Oversight Committee on Jan. 25. Among the public utility agency's proposals was a plan to provide rate discounts to churches, commercial entities and government entities.

Mark Dreyfus, Austin Energy vice president of regulatory affairs and corporate communications, said Austin Energy recommends discontinuing the discount given to churches in Austin, potentially resulting in a combined $1 million in annual energy cost savings.

"Discounts for houses of worship are no longer common in the state," Dreyfus said during the committee meeting. "Virtually all utilities that appear before public utility commissions have removed these discounts, ... and we believe that following the same policy is appropriate."

Dreyfus said Austin Energy contacted each Austin church during the past year and offered energy efficiency and energy management assistance.

Additionally, Austin Energy proposes maintaining the existing discount for eight Austin-area ISDs as well as providing a discount for military bases and state accounts. Austin Energy reviews its rates every five years, and council members this summer will consider rate changes, which, if approved, would be implemented at the beginning of October, according to an Austin Energy spokesperson.

Independent hearing examiners will consider public input before providing utility rate recommendations to City Council. Residents interested in becoming involved in the process can visit Austin Energy's 2016 rate review webpage.