Black Hills Energy proposes electric rate review

(PUEBLO, Colo.) — Black Hills Energy said it is requesting a rate review from the Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC) for the first time in eight years to adjust them for rising costs.

Black Hills Energy said the costs for providing services for over 100,000 customers in Pueblo, Cañon City, Rocky Ford, and surrounding areas have increased. The rate review would cover system costs already incurred by Black Hills Energy and the needed infrastructure investment and operating costs, along with competitive pay and benefits for the local employees who keep the system running.

According to Black Hills Energy, over several months the PUC will evaluate the proposal along with hearing from intervening parties and consider public comment before making its decision.

If approved by PUC, Black Hills Energy’s request would increase the average monthly bill for residential customers by about $20 per month and could go into effect in March 2025.

“We are very mindful of cost impacts to our customers which is why we have avoided seeking a rate update for eight years,” said Campbell Hawkins, Black Hills Energy’s vice president of Colorado Utilities. “We know that higher costs for everything—from groceries to gasoline to monthly energy bills—are a topic of conversation in the communities we serve. We recognize the impact that bill increases have on our customers and we’re here to help.”

More information, support to help use less energy and pay bills, and answers to frequently asked questions can be found on Black Hills Energy’s website.

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