MichiganRadio

Consumers Energy Seeks Rate Hike ANN ARBOR, MI (Michigan Radio) -

Consumers Energy customers can expect to see their electric bills increase this summer.

The utility filed for a rate increase with the state Public Service Commission today. The rate hike would amount to about 6 dollars on the average customer's monthly bill. Consumers Energy spokesman Jeff Holyfield says the rate hike will likely be added to customers' bills in July.

"We are allowed to implement interim rate increases six months after the cases are filed, unless the Michigan Public Service Commission issues an order to stop the increase," says Holyfield.

Holyfield says the utility needs the additional 178 million dollars to pay for equipment upgrades.

State regulators approved Consumers Energy's last rate hike in November. © Copyright 2012, Michigan Radio