Kaukauna Utilities rate hike approved

MADISON - A rate increase of 4.78% was approved for Kaukauna Utilities Friday by the Wisconsin Public Service Commission.

Kaukuana Utilities, which is constructing a new hydro plan to replace two outdated dams, had applied for a total rate increase of 8.8%, or about $5.4 million. Instead, the rate increase is worth about $2.9 million.

However, the PSC only approved the lower amount until more information is known about the impact the Badger Hydro plant will have on Kaukauna's costs.   

The Commission's vote to cut back the utility's original request was possible thanks to decisions to decrease the utility's rate of return, decrease allowable operating expenses, and to incorporate projected decreases in wholesale purchased power expenses, according to PSC news release.

For a photo gallery of the hydro project, click here .