Overview
- Public hearings at Marquette University on Tuesday and Wednesday drew hours of testimony largely opposing the request, with many speakers saying another increase would be unaffordable for seniors and low‑income families.
- The utility seeks roughly a 14% increase by the end of 2028, estimating about $13 added to a typical residential electric bill in 2027 and another $8 to $9 in 2028.
- We Energies says the revenue would cover about $600 million in renewable projects plus investments in tree trimming, burying lines and replacing aging equipment to improve reliability.
- The Public Service Commission is accepting written comments through Sept. 18 and is expected to issue a ruling this fall or by year‑end, with any approved rate changes possible starting in January 2027.
- Stakeholders are split: union representatives praised jobs and faster storm response from the work, while consumer advocates warned repeated above‑inflation increases strain households and urged the commission to limit or modify the proposal.