At the time those decisions were being made here in Wisconsin, they made absolute economic sense. |
The first thing we need to do is understand how big the problem is. We know the costs have escalated as a result of the supply disruptions . . . but the significant challenge is going to be the new contracts that are escalating in a very significant way. |
The market dynamics at the time (that) we were considering those cases distorted the market and resulted in prices that were probably not going to be sustained through the course of this year. Natural gas prices are now down $3 to $4, which will mean real relief for Wisconsin ratepayers. I expect that every Wisconsin utility will come forward to adjust rates. We will work quickly so utility customers experience timely savings. |
The market dynamics at the time we were considering those cases distorted the market and resulted in prices that were probably not going to be sustained through the course of this year. |
Yes, rates have absolutely gone up this year and it's been very frustrating for me as a commissioner. But at the end of the day, these are costs we can't just say no to. If we want reliability and we want the lights to go on, we've got to make the tough decisions. |