Advocates want public input on Empire rate request

Consumer advocates say the public should be ready to express its opposition to Empire District Electric Co.'s proposed rate hike for Kansas customers.

The Associated Press

JOPLIN, Mo. —

Consumer advocates say the public should be ready to express its opposition to Empire District Electric Co.'s proposed rate hike for Kansas customers.

Last Wednesday, Empire announced it is seeking a seeking a nearly 25 percent increase in annual revenues, or $5.2 million. It's the utility's first rate increase request since 2005.

The Joplin-based utility has more than 10,000 customers in Baxter Springs, Columbus, Galena, Riverton and surrounding areas.

Empire spokeswoman Amy Bass says a Kansas residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt hours of electricity would see rates increase 27 percent, or $25.09 per month.

David Springe, consumer counsel for the Citizens' Utility Ratepayer Board, says the public should be aware when a hearing on the request is scheduled and turn out in force.

The Kansas Corporation Commission isn't expected to act on the increase before next summer.

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