HAMMOND, Ind. (AP) — The Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor is encouraging customers of Northern Indiana Public Service Co. to comment on the utility’s pending electric rate case.

The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission will hold a public field hearing at 6 p.m. Dec. 14 at Hammond High School.

NIPSCO provides electric service to more than 461,000 customers in 20 counties. NIPSCO’s request would raise the average monthly residential electric bill for 698 kilowatt hours about $10 to $101.92.

Several groups have formally intervened in the case. They include the Indiana Municipal Utility Group, the Citizens Action Coalition and several industrial customers.

Written comments also can be sent the Office of Utility Consumer Counselor no later than Jan. 15 via email at uccinfo@oucc.IN.gov.