Associated Press - November 3, 2009 6:04 PM ET

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) - The Florida Public Service Commission has cut rates for three power companies due to such factors as declining fuel prices.

The commission Tuesday also ordered Florida Power & Light Co. to refund $364 million because its current fuel rate is too high. Customers will get a 1-time credit in January. It'll be $44.46 for customers using 1,000 kilowatt hours per month.

FPL's monthly rate also will drop by $15.29 for that level of usage. Most of the reduction would be offset if the commission approves a requested base rate increase that could add back up to $13.

The commission approved decreases of 5 cents for Progress Energy and $1.46 for Tampa Electric Co. customers using 1,000 kilowatt hours.

Progress is seeking a base rate increase of $9.66.

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