Young Brothers Ltd. — the state's largest interisland barge company — yesterday announced it is seeking a fuel price adjustment that will give customers a little credit.

After increasing the fuel price adjustment six times since late 2007, the carrier said the 1.01 percent reduction would result in a credit to customers' freight charges.

The company said the credit is a response to decreased average fuel costs over the past three months, as well as increased fuel efficiency.

Young Brothers said the company filed for the adjustment with the state Public Utilities Commission, asking that a 1.01 percent credit be applied to its freight charges.

"We are certainly pleased to be able to provide this credit to our customers," said Roy Catalani, Young Brothers vice president of Strategic Planning and Government Affairs.

The adjustment is based on the average cost of fuel over the preceding three months, as well as cargo volumes and the amount of fuel used.

The fuel surcharge is re-examined quarterly depending on fuel costs.

Founded in 1900, Young Brothers has been working to streamline and improve its equipment and operations. Replacing existing barges with larger, state-of-the art vessels is part of that plan, Catalani said.

The new barges can carry 40 percent more cargo than the barges they replace, and the hull design results in faster towing speeds and lower fuel consumption.