AG Nessel steps in to protect UP customers from exorbitant electric rate increases

MEDIA CONTACT:
Kelly Rossman-McKinney
 (o) 517-335-7666 or (c) 517-512-9342

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2019

AG Nessel steps in to protect UP customers from exorbitant electric rate increases

LANSING – To protect Upper Peninsula Power Company (UPPCO) customers from exorbitant rate increases, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel today announced her office filed testimony in the power company’s outstanding rate case, opposing most of its request to increase electricity rates by nearly $10 million.

In her testimony, Nessel urged the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) to grant no more than $3.5 million of the $10 million the company requested, saying, “UPPCO’s customers have been burdened by extremely high electric rates – some of the highest in Michigan.

“UPPCO’s case to increase rates by nearly $10 million is simply unsupportable,” Nessel added. “As our state’s chief consumer advocate, I plan to make affordable energy prices for consumers and businesses a priority while ensuring our office continues to champion energy programs that achieve reliability and sustainability for everyone in our state.”

UPPCO filed to increase its electricity rates in September 2018 and its case has been going through the ratemaking process before the MPSC. The commission’s order in the case is expected on or before mid-August 2019.

UPPCO provides electricity to 54,000 retail customers in 118 communities, including cities, villages and townships located in the counties of Alger, Baraga, Delta, Houghton, Iron, Keweenaw, Marquette, Menominee, Ontonagon and Schoolcraft.

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