150,000 Minnesotans could see a 17.8% Minnesota Power rate increase

More than 150,000 Minnesota Power customers could see their monthly bills rise as state regulators review a proposed rate hike.

Minnesota Power announced this week that customers are facing a 17.8% increase, or about $24 a month, if the full request is approved.

In a letter to customers, the company blamed higher costs for operations, maintenance and the workforce, and said inflation also plays a role.

KSTP spoke with residents in Little Falls about how the increase would impact them.

“I don’t like it, but what can you do? They’ve got you, they raise it…,” said Jack Campbell. “…we just got to eat it up.”

“You guys have already raised it enough; you know it’s like, when is the line going to be drawn?” said Riley Rinas.

Minnesota Power also told customers this would be its first increase in three years. Next, the Minnesota Public Ut...