We Energies and Wisconsin Public Service, both owned by WEC Energy Group, filed requests with the state Public Service Commission for rate hikes in 2027 and 2028.

The rate increase will help cover the cost of bringing new solar, wind, battery storage and natural gas projects online, as well as fund investments in tree trimming, burying power lines and replacing aging equipment.

“No one wants to see rising energy bills,” said Brendan Conway, a spokesperson for We Energies and Wisconsin Public Service. “Our filing reflects the realities that our customers count on us every day for the energy they need. We recognize it’s our responsibility to continue providing safe and reliable energy while keeping customer bills low for winter heating costs,” he said. “The combined effect of that is taking a toll on people.”

We Energies is asking regulators for a 4.7 percent increase to its base electric rates in 2027 and another 4.5 percent increase in 2028. That translates into a typical residential customer seeing a $13 increase in their monthly electric bill next year and an $8 to $9 increase the following year. 

Meanwhile, Wisconsin Public Service is seeking a base electric rate increase of 6.3 percent in 2027 and another 3.5 percent increase in 2028. That comes out to an $11 increase in a typical monthly electric bill next year and a $5 to $5.50 increase the following year.