Council adopts file to oppose We Energies rate hikes

Today (Tuesday, October 10) the Common Council adopted file #230896 – a resolution reaffirming the City’s opposition to Wisconsin Electric Power Company’s (WEPCO) and Wisconsin Gas LLC’s joint application to adjust electric, steam, and natural gas rates. The file, introduced by Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa and Alderperson Jonathan Brostoff, and unanimously co-sponsored by the entire Common Council, comes at a time when the utilities are seeking a 3.1% increase.

“We Energies has stated that this rate increase is to support new infrastructure expenditures, including renewable energy. The city has an ambitious climate and equity plan and supports more renewable energy. But given the rate hike last year, and that we experience electric rates among the highest in the Midwest, it is ridiculous that they once again are working to shift the burden onto customers for something they should have been investing in years ago,” said Alderwoman Dimitrijevic. “I would urge the Public Service Commission to reject these efforts that seek to exploit working families who don’t have affordable energy alternatives, and focus on instituting income-driven payment options to ensure greater equity.”

The Common Council, via file #220612 adopted in September, 2022, expressed its opposition to the rate increase that went into effect this year. Should the rate increase be approved by the Public Service Commission without amendment, it would result in two-year electrical rate increase of 14.4% for residential customers. The proposed 3.1% increase for 2024 would add approximately $4 per month to a customer’s monthly electric bill, and $2-$3 per month for natural gas. The file adopted today allows the Office of the City Attorney to submit objections to the rate increase on behalf of the City of Milwaukee. Public comment is still available until Monday, October 16 and can be submitted here.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.