North Dakota Regulators Consider 19% Utility Rate Hike

(Adobe Stock via Prairie News Service)

(By Mike Moen. Prairie News Service) – A branch of Xcel Energy is asking state regulators for a 19% rate hike which would affect nearly 100,000 electricity customers in the region.

Josh Askvig, state director for AARP North Dakota, said rate hike proposals are common in the world of utilities, be he added this one is something customers should really pay attention to and voice any concerns.

“A 19% increase is significant on anything, but especially when it’s your utility bill,” Askvig emphasized.

AARP said the latest request follows a flurry of rate hike moves for regional gas and electricity service at a time when people are struggling with higher consumer costs. The other hikes were whittled down during the review process and state regulators hinted a similar outcome for this plan because of its large scope. Company officials said extra revenue is needed for a broad layout of infrastructure investments, including nuclear power, with the potential to lower fuel costs.