PG&E;’s electric rates were increased by 6.2%.

The increase, approved by the California PUC, reflects higher fuel prices being paid by Pacific Gas & Electric and will total $291.3 million a year, adding $2.28 to the average monthly residential bill of $36.85. The PUC also ordered the San Francisco-based utility to refund $77.6 million in what it ruled were overcharges for natural gas bought from suppliers between 1979 and 1984. The one-time rebate will average $7.50 for gas customers and $2.40 for electric customers. PG&E; had sought a 7% increase in electric rates, and the PUC staff representing consumers recommended just 2.9%.