How Price Changes are Approved

We know any change to your electric bill matters. That’s why we work to manage costs carefully, explain changes clearly, and closely follow all public regulatory processes and reviews. 

As a regulated utility, we submit proposed rate changes and cost recovery requests for review by state regulatory commissions. Those commissions independently evaluate costs, investments, and service needs before determining whether to approve changes. This process also includes opportunities for customers and stakeholders to learn more, ask questions, and provide input.

How approved costs may show up on customer bills

1. Rate reviews (or rate cases): Rate reviews look at the overall cost of providing electric service—from generating electricity to moving and delivering it to homes, farms, and businesses. They’re typically used when overall costs are increasing or when major investments aren’t covered through approved riders. Because rate reviews look at many parts of the electric system and the costs required to operate it, they involve a comprehensive review before any changes can take effect. 
2. Riders (or bill adjustments): Riders are separate charges or credits on your bill that can change more frequently than standard, or base rates. They’re used to recover specific approved costs, such as transmission projects, environmental requirements, or renewable energy investments. Riders help keep these costs visible on bills and allow for adjustments as costs change over time.