Viewing entries by
Bridgot A. Gysbers
Considering rate increases for utilities, such as water, electric, and sewer services, becomes necessary when facing challenges like low cash flow or imminent large capital projects. Implementing gradual rate adjustments can prevent customer shock and facilitate easier budgeting, making it essential for utilities to evaluate their financial health and plan accordingly.
Before a public utility can change water rates and begin billing those rates, the utility must receive approval from the PSC. For water rate cases, utilities have the option to file either a Conventional Rate Case (CRC) or a Simplified Rate Case (SRC). A CRC is recommended if your utility is making more substantial changes to rates. Learn how we can help you process your next municipal conventional water rate case with the PSC.
Water Utilities must apply to the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW) in order to receive a Certificate of Authority (approval) for most water-related construction projects. PSC § 184.03 provides details on the types of construction projects that would require PSCW construction authorization.
Are you considering filing an electric rate case with the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW)? We have outlined the steps to both the municipal electric conventional rate case process as well as the processing of the submitted application.
There’s an uptick in the number of municipalities, solar developers, and utility companies evaluating green space for the potential installation of ground-mounted solar energy projects. This growing interest is not surprising, as the community benefits of solar energy are far reaching. For municipalities, going solar can create opportunities for cost savings and community development, but how exactly does a municipality afford to “go solar?”
If your utility is planning capital projects or seeing an increase in operation and maintenance expenses, you may need to file a rate case with the Wisconsin Public Service Commission (PSC). This process can be slow and labor intensive, which is why we’ve come up with a list of best practices to keep things running smoothly and help you avoid common missteps that lead to long rate case delays.
An increasing number of Wisconsin municipalities are considering a new source of funding for their transportation systems: transportation utilities. Our experts put together this list of FAQ’s to help you better understand the buzz surrounding this new utility and decide if it’s the right fit for your community.
The Wisconsin Public Service Commission (PSC) regulates water utilities, and before a utility can raise its rates, it must file for a rate increase with the PSC. This process can be slow and labor intensive, so we’re sharing 8 best practices to make your life a little easier.
The final stretch of the year is a busy time for municipal utilities, and while we hate to add to your long to-do list, there’s one thing you don’t want to ignore: preparing your Public Service Commission (PSC) Annual Report.
As sanitary sewer main ages, the potential for groundwater infiltration from tree roots, failing joints, and other forces greatly increases. Replacing aging sanitary sewer main ultimately allows utilities to avoid the cost creep from infiltration year after year, but the upfront expense for a main replacement is often significant. How can your utility determine the best financial strategy for mitigating infiltration?
With strict tax levy limits and declining state aid, Wisconsin communities find themselves between a rock and a hard place when it comes to funding roads projects. Fortunately, there may be a new way to secure funding for your community’s streets: transportation utilities.
During these uncertain times, water utilities may find themselves struggling to secure necessary resources. Fortunately, the PSC gives municipal utilities a simple and convenient option to increase rates by filing a Simplified Rate Case. Read more to find out if you water utility qualifies and how to apply for this program.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) has included over $60 million in principal forgiveness for lead service line (LSL) replacement programs in its proposed plan for Safe Drinking Water Loan Program (SDWLP) funds. Learn more about the program requirements and how to apply in our latest finance update.
