PIPP stands for a Percentage of Income Payment Program. It’s a plan where low-income households pay a fixed percentage of their monthly income for utility bills, instead of a rate based on usage.
Why is it important?
We Energies is seeking to increase utility rates again in 2025 and 2026 by 12 percent above current prices, which represents a $24 per month increase for their average residential customer. In addition, We Energies wants to further increase their profits by increasing the share of dollars that they can earn returns on (also called their return on equity) from 9.8 to 10%. These increases are linked to past investments in coal-fired power plants and now We Energies wants to build out even more fossil fuel infrastructure.
Access to affordable energy is a health issue. Lack of access can contribute to severe outcomes like hypothermia, heat-related death, chronic stress and mental health issues, malnutrition, and worsening of many existing chronic conditions.
Each year over 20,000 households in Milwaukee have their utilities shut off due to unaffordable bills. Communities of color and low income communities are most impacted.
We all deserve access to clean, affordable energy. This is why We Energies should prioritize health over profits, and one way they can do this is by implementing their PIPP.
The Public Service Commission (PSC) regulates utility monopolies and is responsible for approving or denying proposed rate increases.
The PSC has acknowledged the severity of energy burden in Milwaukee and required We Energies to consider their PIPP, but has not required them to implement it.
The PSC must hold We Energies accountable.
The health impacts of this issue are rarely discussed, despite substantial evidence of their severity. It is critical that decision makers consider the health impacts of raising utility rates, and hearing from health professionals like you can make a difference.
Please speak up for the health of our community. Tell the PSC: No more rate increases until We Energies implements their PIPP! No more fossil fuels!
The comment period is open until October 7, 2024.