Dive Summary:
- Electric companies in Missouri could be adding a surcharge to its customers for expenses stemming from utility pole replacement and cybersecurity investments.
- Senator Mike Kehoe, who supports the surcharge, said that despite the potential for expense, customers would save money over time through increased reliability and efficiency.
- Opponents of the plan say that it could unwind the regulatory process, including making future electric hikes much easier to obtain.
From the article:
“The impact on the pocketbooks of Missouri families and businesses cannot be ignored,” said Chris Roepe, executive director for the Fair Energy Rate Action Fund. “The last thing Missourians need is for the Legislature to allow another surcharge to be added to their electric bill.”
Missouri legislators passed a 2003 law allowing gas and water utilities to request an infrastructure surcharge, which state regulators must act upon within 120 days. Continuing a surcharge after three years requires a rate case, which is more involved and lengthier. ...