EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (WEAU) – There may be changes coming to your energy bills. Xcel Energy is proposing rate increases for its electric and natural gas services.
Xcel Energy proposed an 11.8% increase in electric rates in 2026, with an additional 7.1% in 2027. The company’s fact sheet said that it would add up to an additional 61 cents each day in 2026, and an additional increase of 36 cents each day in 2027.
For natural gas, Xcel Energy proposed a 12.7% increase in 2026 with an additional 1.5% addition in 2027. The company’s fact sheet said that would add up to an additional 31 cents each day, and an additional increase of 4 cents each day in 2027.
For some community members, this seems excessive.
“People cannot afford a 19% increase in electricity, and people cannot afford a 14% increase in gas,” Jeremy Gragert, the Northwestern Organizer for Citizens Action of Wisconsin, said. “Electricity, heating and cooling are necessities of life.”
Xcel Energy acknowledged the increase in prices, sending us a statement that said in part, “With customers facing rising costs in many areas of their lives, we understand that higher energy bills can be challenging. Our proposal includes a new energy assistance program specifically designed for residential customers needing additional support.”
Customers like Gragert said they understand there may be a rise in prices, but don’t think it should be this significant an increase.
“Everybody is very dependent and in need of electricity and heating and cooling in the era that we’re in,” Gragert said. “We need to make sure that everybody has a right to it as opposed to it only being available to those who can afford it.”
Xcel Energy acknowledged the increase, sending us a statement that said it “is taking proactive steps to upgrade and strengthen the electric grid and natural gas system.”
Xcel added, “We’re transitioning our energy generation portfolio and investing in a more resilient, advanced and secure energy grid with new and upgraded infrastructure, technology and customer support.”
Wisconsin’s Public Service Commission will ultimately decide if the rates are raised. A decision is expected later this year. Community members are able to provide their input. September 15 is the final day to submit comments online about your thoughts on the proposal. You can do that HERE.