The Missouri Public Service Commission heard arguments Wednesday night in Sedalia from Evergy and its customers over a proposed rate increase that could see some residents’ bills increase by 17 percent.

Evergy’s Missouri West division, which includes Johnson, Pettis, Ray, western Carroll and parts of Lafayette counties, are seeking to increase the rates they’re permitted to charge its customers by a net total of $109 million, or an average increase of $17.52 per month for most residential customers. Evergy spokeswoman Gina Penzig says investments in generation capacity and grid reliability make the increase necessary.

Evergy Missouri West recently purchased a 22-percent interest in a natural gas plant in Pleasant Hill and also has ownership in a similar plant in Mississippi.

Representatives from the Office of Public Counsel were present to explain their opposition to the proposal as presented, citing the inclusion of the plant in Mississippi among other issues. About 30 residents and Evergy representatives were present at the Sedalia City Hall for the hearing, with customers from Higginsville and Smithville expressing criticisms of the proposal during an informal session prior to the formal hearing. Two PSC commissioners, Maida Coleman of St Louis and Jason Holsman of Kansas City, were present for the hearing, while other commissioners joined remotely.

Two virtual hearings are scheduled for Thursday afternoon at noon and 6 p.m. Details about these meetings are posted on the Missouri Public Service Commission’s website.

Evergy’s rate increase request applies to their Missouri West division only. The Missouri Metro Division, which includes Saline, Chariton, Howard, most of Carroll, and central Lafayette counties, are not impacted by this proposal.  The case number is ER-2024-0189.