NEWCASTLE, Wyo. — Black Hills Energy is seeking approval from the Wyoming Public Service Commission for a $5.1 million annual rate increase that would raise electric bills for about 2,600 customers in northeast Wyoming.
If approved, the utility’s first base-rate increase since 2014 would increase residential bills by about $32 per month, or roughly 32%, according to company filings.
The rate hike would affect customers primarily in the Upton and Newcastle areas.
During a public hearing, residents and local officials voiced concerns about affordability, particularly for seniors on fixed incomes and nonprofit organizations facing higher utility costs.
The Wyoming Office of Consumer Advocate has recommended reducing the request to about $3.6 million and lowering the company’s proposed rate of return, arguing for a smaller increase and a later implementation date.
The Public Service Commission is scheduled to hold a formal hearing on the proposal Oct. 7-8 before making a final decision.
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