The July utility invoices include a notice regarding an electric rate increase application filed with the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC). Some additional information to consider regarding the rate application:
• As the only municipal electric utility, Oconomowoc has the lowest electric rates in Waukesha County. Since our last rate adjustment, the average family has saved over $1,200. After the proposed rate changes, residential rates will still be 17% less, saving our customers $200/year.
• The utility is requesting an overall increase of 6.21%. Increases to individual customers will vary from balancing costs between customer groups as required by the PSC. A typical residential customer’s monthly bill would increase approximately $8 or 8.9%.
• The last base rate adjustment was six years ago. Costs of cable, transformers, equipment and safety supplies have increased. Each year we continue to upgrade and replace the oldest parts of our distribution system in our growing service territory. In addition, most of the change is to roll the purchased power cost adjustment into the base rates.
• The PSC will conduct a public hearing at locations in Oconomowoc and Madison. A notice will be published after a meeting date has been set.