Minnesota utility regulators soften rate increases sought by Xcel

Recognizing Minnesota residents are "under financial distress," state regulators slashed a proposed Xcel Energy electric rate increase. Interim residential rates will still rise, but only about $5.50 a month instead of about $8.50.

The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) on Thursday approved a total interim rate increase of $79.8 million, which was about $41 million less than what the utility had requested, for residential customers. It also approved an interim increase for natural gas customers.

"The commission is very concerned about affordability for consumers, and they're asking all the right questions," said Annie Levenson-Falk, executive director of the Citizens Utility Board of Minnesota, an advocacy group for residential ratepayers.

https://www.startribune.com/minnesota-utility-regulators-soften-rate-increases-sought-by-xcel/600125521/?refresh=true