William J. Kemble is reporting for the Daily Freeman the state Public Service Commission on June 14, approved a Central Hudson request to raise usage rates, but reduce the monthly fixed rate for electricity. A Central Hudson spokesman noted the new usage rates are lower than the utility initially requested. Under the approved three-year plan, usage rates for electricity will increase by 1 percent the first year, 2.8 percent the second and 4 percent the third. Natural gas usage rates will go up 1.5 percent the first year, 3.6 percent the second and 4.4 percent the third. The monthly fixed rate for electricity will drop by $3 the first year, $1 the second, and an additional 50 cents the third year. The utility originally requested an electric rate increase of more than 11 percent, but following a meeting with watchdog groups in April, Central Hudson revised the proposal to include the rates that were ultimately approved by the commission. Also under the approved plan, Central Hudson will eliminate all fees associated with customer payments made by credit or debit card, or at walk-in locations. Read the full story in the Daily Freeman.