Residential Rate Increase
Southwestern Electric Power Company (SWEPCO) has filed a request with the Arkansas Public Service Commission (APSC) to raise residential electric rates by 20.2% or up to 27.3% when including surcharges.
This increase would put a heavy burden on Arkansas families, especially those already facing high poverty and food insecurity. Part of the proposed increase would go toward keeping the 46-year-old Flint Creek coal plant operating for another decade or more, instead of investing in cleaner, healthier renewable energy sources. Coal plants contribute to air pollution that worsens asthma, heart disease, and other health problems, and continued fossil fuel investment drives the climate crisis we are already experiencing.
Your Voice Matters!
The APSC is accepting public comments before making its decision. Large rate hikes like this affect us all, and this is our chance to advocate for fair, affordable rates and a transition to renewable energy.
How to comment:
· Visit the APSC public comment portal: https://apps.apsc.arkansas.gov/olsv2/efilinghomepage.asp
· Select Docket No. 25-003-U (SWEPCO General Rate Case)
· Share your thoughts, even a short, respectful note can make a difference.
Comments are most effective when they:
· State your opposition to the rate increase
· Mention how it will personally impact you or others you care about
· Encourage investment in renewable energy instead of coal
Let’s use our collective voice to advocate for affordable, healthy, sustainable energy! *If you have difficulty navigating the APSC comment section, feel free to email or text Joanna Person-Michener resiliencejo73@gmail.com/479-225-6803 for guidance. The system can be a little tricky, but please make your comment because the APSC needs to hear that we do not approve of this rate increase for Arkansas. Thank you!”