The company is seeking an annual increase in revenues of approximately $5.2m or about 24.6%. If approved, a residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt hours of electricity would experience a monthly increase of approximately $25.08.
Bill Gipson, president and CEO of The Empire District Electric Company, said: “We are seeking new rates primarily to begin recovery of the investment we have made or are making to our electric system, specifically environmental upgrades at Iatan 1 and the Asbury Power Plant and, for the new generating units, Riverton Unit 12, Iatan 2, and the Plum Point Generating Station, plus the annual operating costs associated with these units.
“These additions will allow Empire to continue to provide reliable service to our customers with a balanced mix of resources.”
The company expects that any new rates approved would not become effective until the summer of 2010.
Based in Joplin, Missouri, The Empire District Electric Company is an investor-owned, regulated utility providing electricity, natural gas, and water service.
