Minnesota Power has been given approval to implement an interim rate increase while regulators review the utility’s request to increase its operating revenue.
Beginning on January 1, users will pay 5.8 per cent more on their hydro bills.
That equates to about a $4.50 monthly increase on the average residential bill.
A further increase could come if the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission allows Minnesota Power to increase its annual operating revenue to $65.9 million.
That decision is still at least 18 months away.
Minnesota Power provides electricity to about 145,000 customers in 15 municipalities across northeastern Minnesota including International Falls.
