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DOE Acts to Ensure Key Coal-fired Power Plants Are Available in MISO to Supply Peak Summer Demands

LCG, May 18, 2026--The U.S. Secretary of Energy today issued an emergency order to address critical grid reliability issues in the Midwest anticipated this summer. The order is in effect beginning on May 19, 2026, through August 16, 2026. The emergency order directs the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO), in coordination with Consumers Energy, to ensure that the J.H. Campbell coal-fired power plant (Campbell Plant) in West Olive, Michigan shall take all steps necessary to remain available to operate and to minimize costs for the region.

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EPA Announces Proposed Rule Action to Revise ELG's and Support Reliable, Affordable Coal-fired Power Plants

LCG, May 14, 2026--The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced today that it is proposing a rule to revise wastewater limits, known as effluent limitations guidelines (ELG), for steam electric power plants that will help improve grid reliability and lower electricity prices while continuing to support clean and safe water resources. If finalized, the EPA's proposal is estimated to reduce electricity generation costs by as much as $1.1 billion annually, which could provide cost-savings to American consumers.

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Industry News

Western Resources Units Ask for Rate Increases

LCG, Nov. 28, 2000--Kansas Power & Light Co. and Kansas Gas & Electric Co., the electric utility units of Western Resources Inc., yesterday asked the Kansas Corporation Commission for permission to increase rates to cover rising operating and maintenance expenditures and investment in new plant and equipment.

KP&L's typical residential customers would see an increase of about $9.25 on their monthly bills. The company said it would be the first rate hike in 17 years. The average KG&E residential electric customer would see an increase of approximately $6.50 per month to their bills.

David C. Wittig, chief executive of Western Resources, said "We are always sensitive to the rates our customers pay. We strive to balance their desire for the lowest possible prices and our commitment to provide safe, reliable electric service." But he noted that the electric companies have had to invest in new power plants to keep up with growth.

The major components of the rate filings include, in the order presented by Western Resources, new generation and depreciation, retiree medical benefits, tax and interest adjustments, operations and maintenance and numerous other items and fuel costs.

Fuel costs seem to be the big thing. Wittig said "Our efforts enabled us to stave off rate increase requests as long as we have, but these measures aren't enough to offset more than a 100 percent rise in natural gas fuel prices that has occurred this year and general inflationary costs the companies have incurred since their last rate review."

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