Electric rates could climb higher for many Empire customers

Updated:

The Missouri Public Service Commission is hosting public meetings on a rate hike request by Empire District Electric Company.

One meeting was held at noon today and another is set for 6:30 this evening at Missouri Southern's Corley Auditorium.

Empire wants to boost rates by a little over 5% to pay for such things as vegetation control and the retirement of coal plants.

"We've expended the dollars for these projects and they are benefiting our customers and now we come back and ask for them to help recoup those costs, it's for a variety of programs but many of which are regulations which we have to adhere to," says Emily Stanley, the Corporate Communications Coordinator for Empire Electric.

Some customers spoke at today's meeting complaining that people on fixed incomes can't afford a rate hike.

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Electric rates could climb higher for many Empire customers - KOAM TV 7

Electric rates could climb higher for many Empire customers

Local NewsMore>>

Storm leaves property damage in Ottawa County

Storm leaves property damage in Ottawa County

Restore Joplin tee transitions to Restore Moore

Restore Joplin tee transitions to Restore Moore

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Layoffs coming to Pittsburg hospital

Ozark Center and Joplin Y's Thrive Program helps tornado survivors heal emotional wounds

Ozark Center and Joplin Y's Thrive Program helps tornado survivors heal emotional wounds

Miami, Okla student named Gates Millennium Scholarship winner

Miami, Okla student named Gates Millennium Scholarship winner

Joplin to Moore: We understand and we're here for you

Joplin to Moore: We understand and we're here for you

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