MADISON, WI (WTAQ) – Wisconsin has the nation’s largest increases in fixed electric charges since the start of last year.
That’s according to a study by Renew Wisconsin.
It says customers of 18 utilities in other states paid between a penny and $4.30 more each month to cover their share of equipment costs, not including the power they use.
State regulators allowed three large Wisconsin utilities to raise their fixed charges a year ago by almost $7 and $9 per month.
Critics say the higher charges hurt the elderly and penalize customers who conserve energy. Utilities say they need all customers to pay their share of things like power poles and crews who fix storm damage. They’ve reduced usage rates to help offset the hikes.
Xcel Energy is seeking its first Wisconsin increase in fixed charges, a $10 jump to $18 a month.
Wisconsin Public Service of Green Bay is seeking a second straight yearly hike. State agency staffers have recommended that the second increase be delayed until officials see how WPSC customers responded to the first increase.
(Story courtesy of Wheeler News Service)
