Current Date/Time: 7/5/2025 9:38:25 PM
Linked Comments
ER-2024-0261
| Comment No. | Date Filed | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| P202400691 | 4/11/2024 10:06 AM | See Attached |
| P202400692 | 4/11/2024 10:10 AM | See Attached |
| P202400766 | 6/12/2024 9:42 AM | Your oversight in this matter is clearly needed and I hope you will take the matter seriously. So far, less than impressed with Liberty and they should have rolled out whatever they are doing in smaller portions so as to not put the burden on the consumer. I am writing to request that you look into Liberty’s billing practices. We bought a house in their jurisdiction unfortunately and have not had a regular monthly bill yet. Last month, my bill encompassed 50 days. This month, I have called to see when to expect my bill and it will also include almost two months of utilities. I would like a monthly bill…I don’t want to try to guess when and how high my utility bill will be when they finally decide it’s time ... *See attached |
| P202500788 | 9/24/2024 11:16 AM | "This company is a problem and are fraudulent and gouging the customers because they are incompetent. They want to take care of themselves, shareholders, and CEOS and not the customers. They keep charging the customers more and more money to fix their short-comings or keep their pockets full. That's problematic for me and every person I know who are financially struggling right now." |
| P202500937 | 11/11/2024 10:10 AM | Liberty has proposed a massive rate increase, and attempted to justify this increase by pointing to capital investments. However, they are requesting an increase in Authorized Return on Equity (ROE) from 9.25% to 10%. (Timothy N. Wilson, item 11) This increase should be denied. Further, a very careful analysis of the expenditures should be undertaken to determine if they are justified by customer needs, or driven by a desire for profit. I am not an expert in most of these areas, so I urge the PSC to review them very carefully. I am an expert in IT systems, and I have carefully reviewed the testimony of Shawn Eck, item 16. I have found the testimony does not justify the $7.38 million in capital expenditures. (Out of space...) |
| P202500938 | 11/11/2024 11:27 AM | Missouri families are hurting, and a 20% rate increase is both insensitive and insulting to customers whose ONLY source of electricity is Liberty Utilities. As there are no other options for utility providers other than Liberty, customers cannot shop around for the best service for their budget and are forced to accept any rate increase approved. 20% is too much of an increase for Missourians hurting from the last four years of inflation, especially since this makes the 6th local utility company requesting customers pay more each month for their utilities including gas, electric, water, and sewer. Liberty needs to know customers are not unlimited revenue generators to make up for the lower 2023 profit generated. |
| P202500997 | 11/19/2024 4:01 PM | I oppose this rate increase. The community should not have to pay for the bad decisions and bad investments in wind and solar power made by Liberty. |
| P202501097 | 12/9/2024 4:21 PM | "I would like to say that the repair crews I've interacted w/ recently were very professional and helpful. But I would like to say that I oppose the requested rate increase due to poor electric service and outages. Their new billing system is also very frustrating." |
| P202501205 | 12/20/2024 11:42 AM | I am a landlord and Liberty is assessing $1800 on several of my potential tenants in multiple properties I own which is causing them to back out of renting them or they're requesting their security deposits back due to the high deposit which is making it impossible for me and other landlords to make money. This is hurting commerce and needs to stop. |
| P202501208 | 12/20/2024 2:59 PM | "Liberty billing is a mess has been for at least 9 months! I receive bills for different periods that have the exact same amount of usage each month - yet they say they are reading the meters and not estimating, but that is false! How can the gallon usage be EXACTLY the same each and every month?" |
| P202501255 | 12/30/2024 4:33 PM | "2 months, no bill. This is affecting my business's taxes. This has been going on for 9 months. People are irate. Liberty needs to fix this ASAP. " |
| P202501264 | 12/31/2024 9:54 AM | There is a FB group called Victims of Liberty. This company is rude and incompetent. They do not offer the correct payment plan choices unless you call them out on it. They are supposed to offer you twice the amount of time you were billed incorrectly to pay off the balance and they do not do that unless you know the rule and call them out on it. |
| P202501274 | 1/2/2025 9:44 AM | "I think it's an unfair system that allows Liberty's billing mistakes to hurt the consumers and aren't being penalized for it." |
| P202501280 | 1/3/2025 8:38 AM | PSC Facebook Post. I just wish you would make Liberty send out electric bills on time. Last time it took them 4 months to get a bill. This time Thery are 2 months behind again. |
| P202501350 | 1/14/2025 8:18 AM | "Thanks so much for the meeting held without me on December 18th from Emily Walter’s. They changed the time from 4:00pm to 6:00pm and met from 10:00am to 12:00 pm. Evidently they did this because they can’t expect Liberty Utilities to balance and check numbers when they’re known to cheat everyone they can! Hopefully this can be caught one of these days, although it won’t be by your commission team!!! Sent from my iPhone" |
| P202501532 | 1/23/2025 8:52 AM | "I spoke with the Commissioners at a public hearing in Bolivar last fall. Part of the discussion was Liberty’s inability to sent out their bills in a timely fashion. When we get a bill we have a shortened time to make our payment. Their mismanagement is unacceptable. On top of that they want to increase our rates. They need to clean up their management mess and demonstrate they can effectively run a utility before they would ever deserve an increase. We are many months from the hearing and I see no evidence they have a handle on the concerns voiced at the hearing." |
| P202501693 | 2/3/2025 10:47 AM | "For 4 months Liberty could not tell us how much our bill was. This is highly incompetent and terrible customer service. No notifications were ever sent out explaining what was going on. This is affecting people on fixed incomes and budgets. This is a failure on Liberty's part and they aren't even offering the customers any type of compensation for this headache they have created. " |
| P202501712 | 2/6/2025 2:26 PM | Something needs to be done with Liberty price gouging. Why should we have to pay for Winter Storm Uri? I didn't even live in this state. |
| P202501734 | 2/18/2025 11:17 AM | "Why is the customer expected to pay for Liberty's cost of doing business? Specifically, why does the customer absorb their bad business decisions and mistakes by paying higher rates in order for them to keep their high profits? They need to adjust their overhead instead of passing it onto the customer." |
| P202501781 | 3/3/2025 8:46 AM | "So we will be paying for this for 15 years?!!! How is this even legal? If it was such a bad storm, was there a state of emergency declared? Were there FEMA dollars available or some kind of federal funding for a natural disaster? If not, why? And regardless of that if the substation was in such bad shape and it was outdated, why did they wait until a bad storm to decide to do something about it? I still firmly believe that that is not our responsibility! How is that our responsibility to pay for something that they neglected for all of those years? I’m responsible for the upkeep on my home and I don’t have the option of putting a tariff on someone to help me pay for it!! I am so beyond angry about this! We have no choice in the matter |
| P202501826 | 3/8/2025 4:19 PM | A thirty percent rate increase from a company that is already stealing our money is a slap in the face to Missourians! Wages have certainly not gone up thirty percent since the last increase, of that much I am quite certain. Keep in mind these Canadian companies are of a mindset to hurt Americans economically at the moment. They're down nine percent one year but need a thirty percent increase over what they've already stolen (which I suspect is more than the 9% down year over year)? Absolutely not! Strike this increase down. Strike it down in the harshest possible terms and make it clear Missourians will not stand for such exorbitant increases in our great state! |
| P202501827 | 3/9/2025 8:57 AM | Liberty’s original request for a 15.99% rate increase was already concerning, but nearly doubling that request to 29.64% in a matter of months is simply unsustainable for many households. Unlike Liberty, which can pass on its increased operating costs to customers, Missouri families and small businesses cannot simply increase their incomes to absorb such a steep rate hike. Fixed-income seniors, working-class families, and struggling small business owners will bear the brunt of this decision, pushing some closer to financial hardship or even forcing them to go without essential services. |
| P202501828 | 3/10/2025 7:51 AM | We are strongly against giving Liberty Utilities any additional funds or allowing them to take more money from Missourians. If we had any options for another electrical carrier we would. Their service is unreliable. They are unable to manage or run their business. We did not receive an electric bill from them from June 2024 to February 2025. We began calling monthly and then weekly being told we will get you a bill. No one had a clue. Now we are told they will work us on bringing our account up to date. Please force Liberty to get their own house in order before taking more from ours. |
| P202501829 | 3/10/2025 7:52 AM | We are strongly against giving Liberty Utilities any additional funds or allowing them to take more money from Missourians. If we had any options for another electrical carrier we would. Their service is unreliable. They are unable to manage or run their business. We did not receive an electric bill from them from June 2024 to February 2025. We began calling monthly and then weekly being told we will get you a bill. No one had a clue. Now we are told they will work us on bringing our account up to date. Please force Liberty to get their own house in order before taking more from ours. |
| P202501831 | 3/10/2025 8:02 AM | "To whom it may concern. I just heard that Liberty has ask for an even larger increase. I am a senior on a fixed income, this huge increase is a projected 30% in my utility bill which is going to be a unsustainable increase for a majority of the consumer. I don't know of any person getting a 30% increase. Thank you for your attention to this matter." |
| P202501832 | 3/10/2025 8:03 AM | I am reaching out to you because of the recent request of Liberty utilities for yet another rate hike. Please stop the madness. Not only have my rates more than doubled in the almost 10 years in this house but their reliability of service is not good. The power surges and flashes have damaged more than one of my appliances. The inconsistency is also cause of increased cost due to influencing efficiency. Please stop this latest request to increase rates. Thank you for your consideration in this matter. |
| P202501833 | 3/10/2025 8:05 AM | I don't know who's in charge, but someone needs to rein in the leash on Liberty charging us dubious amounts because they are allowed to. We the people are sick of being taken advantage of and seemingly don't care. You sit up there on your high horse with these people and put more and more pressure on we the people. I'm personally sick of it as I know thousands of my peers are as well. Get control over your damn pony. |
| P202501834 | 3/10/2025 8:12 AM | The average increase would be from 31 to 39 dollars. This is an astronomical increase. This is not right and the PSC needs to back up and look at this. This information should also be included in the billing on a separate page. |
| P202501835 | 3/10/2025 9:11 AM | "I am just writing as another citizen confirming that Liberty Utilities is charging too much for electricity in Joplin. My family members with bigger houses to heat and cool in other parts of the state pay less for electricity than we do in Joplin. Unfortunately, Liberty Utilities still thinks they need to increase rates even further. It’s absurd and it needs to be stopped. It is what is in the best interests of the voting public on both sides of the aisle and would do a lot to help public opinion of whoever resolves this issue. " |
| P202501836 | 3/10/2025 9:24 AM | "For what it’s worth I Marvin Essley am totally against any rate increase by liberty electric. I have been with Liberty / Empire district electric for 60 years and no matter what you do to conserve energy it’s never enough I have installed insulation, installed new energy efficient windows, new siding, all energy efficient appliances and all led lighting and yet my rates never go down on up higher and higher. In my opinion I think they should have our government to look into this to see just how much price gouging and much is being paid under the table to the executives." |
| P202501840 | 3/10/2025 12:23 PM | "Liberty is not competitive on the rates. Their billing practices are ludicrous. People are forced to have Liberty as their provider and Liberty is completely taking advantage of that lack of choice, charging 65% more than the power company in town that I cannot choose and now they have the audacity to ask for a rate increase. Please do something about Liberty utilities." |
| P202501841 | 3/10/2025 3:05 PM | "I am writing to formally express my strong opposition to Liberty’s proposed rate increase of approximately $152 million, an increase of 29.64%, as outlined in the amended rate filing submitted on February 26, 2025. This increase is excessive, unreasonable, and unaffordable for the hardworking families, senior citizens, and small business owners in Missouri who are already struggling with the rising cost of living."..*Please see attached for full comment. |
| P202501842 | 3/10/2025 3:44 PM | My wife and I did not receive an electric bill for 5 months after continued calling. We paid $150 to stay ahead only to be refunded. We are now getting back-billed for their mistake and a rate increase on top would be financial strangulation. We are new parents, trying our best to be honest, respectable, citizens. We love our town and home but are considering moving counties/states to get away from this Monopoly. Also, why would we be paying for February 2021 Storm and Asbury Cost for 50years??? |
| P202501844 | 3/10/2025 7:49 PM | Please consider not granting Liberty’s request since I, the customer will be the one affected with higher electric bills. I recently moved from the dfw metroplex and rates were less expensive in the city than rural Neosho MO. |
| P202501846 | 3/10/2025 8:20 PM | This rate increase request is a direct result of their failed/problematic implementation of S4HANA SAP System software. It is not the responsibility of electric customers to bail them out of their problems. They need to go back to SAP and whoever the implementation partner is (which may be SAP) and get them to take responsibility and accountability - and figure it out without putting their the outcome of their poor decisions on the backs of their customers. |
| P202501848 | 3/11/2025 7:40 AM | I've been in my little 1100 sq ft house for over 6 years. In that time frame, between rate hikes and "smart" meters, I have seen an increase in my electric bill by approximately $200 a month. My two most recent bills were about $560. Based on the fact that Liberty holds a monopoly on our electric service AND they are a for-profit company, I find it absolutely ridiculous that anyone in public office would allow any rate increase, or the bill for SB 4. As a for-profit company, their primary responsibility is their shareholders and their bottom line, not to the residents of Missouri!! If this increase is allowed, my electric bill will almost match my house payment. PLEASE do not allow another increase by this organization!! |
| P202501849 | 3/11/2025 7:42 AM | Liberty raising rates that much will make a difference on making choices to pay for medical needs or electric bills. 15% is huge and 30% is nuts. Why should Missourians be giving profits to a company that is out of the US? I feel like we are going to be punished for them being looked at for their practices. We have solar, and before solar our bill was about $150 a month in 2020. Now besides our solar payment is still $123 on average. It started going up after the smart meter were installed. Please force them to sell to a US (company). |
| P202501850 | 3/11/2025 7:47 AM | What is up with Liberty? They are failing miserably w/ their customers. In fact, when I called complaining that 11 days was not long enough to get it to them via mail, the operator said, she'd relay the message but doubted it would do any good and for me to "contact the commission". Now I am hearing that they want an increase in their previous rate increase request, amounting to $152 million????? What is the $152 million going TO??? I highly doubt it will be for anything FOR US!!! Are we subsidizing their expenses (are they passing their expenses on down to us to cover OTHER areas?)?? And I'm just one out of many who are past upset w/ their incompetence and their greed. (see attached PDF) |
| P202501851 | 3/11/2025 8:05 AM | I realize that this is probably a useless endeavor, however I respectfully urge this commission to deny Liberty their latest request. (see attached PDF) |
| P202501852 | 3/11/2025 8:09 AM | Please consider not granting Liberty’s request since I, the customer, will be the one affected with higher electric bills. I recently moved from the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and rates were less expensive in the city than rural Neosho MO. |
| P202501853 | 3/11/2025 8:44 AM | Liberty Electric is asking for a 30 percent increase in rates. As a consumer, I'm tired of the price gouging for unreliable service they provide. It's hard enough to pay their bills as it is. I see no reason as to why Missourians need to keep paying exorbitant, extravagant energy prices so the CEO and their board members can make more money. I'd like the Commission to lower their prices rather than increase them. |
| P202501854 | 3/10/2025 | The customer called to say that this is too high. She lives by herself. She's not there half of the time. She goes to work. Her bill is more than $233 a month with no lights on. She hasn't used the heating or air conditioner. She does not comprehend why her bill is so high. It wasn't like this last year. They are trying to gouge too much. This is a monopoly. |
| P202501855 | 3/11/2025 8:56 AM | Liberty Electric is trying to come before the board a make quite a bit of increase, I believe it's 30 percent. I'm asking you to vote against this. They are still making record profits while almost price gouging the customers. There was a storm a few years ago that we are getting charged for even though that should be included in the services that we pay for each month. I ask you to please reject this, and do not increase our bills. |
| P202501856 | 3/11/2025 9:06 AM | Liberty is wanting to raise rates again. They've brought up an almost 30 percent rate increase. I'm totally against this. Electric bills are already too high. They need to figure out another way to recoup their capital expenditures. If they have to, sell bonds or something other than charging their customers excessive rates. |
| P202501859 | 3/11/2025 9:30 AM | I am against the rate increase they recently applied for. |
| P202501860 | 3/11/2025 9:45 AM | The world is at a 3% increase. An investigation needs to be performed on Liberty for their rate increases of anything greater than 3%. They are making a profit, not losing money. They continue to ask for more and more, if they had competition in the marketplace then maybe they would find ways to decrease cost rather than increasing costs. |
| P202501863 | 3/11/2025 10:07 AM | NO raising rates 29.64%!!!!!!!! NO RATE INCREASES!!!!! |
| P202501864 | 3/11/2025 10:11 AM | Please say no to this! Just tell them no! They’ve already asked for a rate increase. Why double it less than a year later?! Please, for the love of all electric consumers just trying to get by, say no. Tell them to find their money internally. Practice better business! Investigate their business practices and I bet you’ll find they have the money they need already. Consumers can’t keep footing the bill for bad business practices! Enough is enough! |
| P202501865 | 3/11/2025 10:13 AM | I am requesting your consideration regarding Liberty Utilities requested rate hike in Missouri. I am disabled, and a 30% rate hike would be devastating for me, or anyone on a fixed income. We set our thermostat on 68 night and day during these cold winter months, and still I paid a $240 electric bill. In the summer, we require a comfortable temperature in order to sleep with our C-pap machines. I can't imagine having an electric bill I can't afford. This would be devastating for me and my situation. Please consider this a plea for a denial of this amount of increase. Thank you. |
| P202501866 | 3/11/2025 11:08 AM | Liberty (Empire District) is already receiving a Fuel Adjustment Charge when natural gas is at record low prices. They are also charging us for the removal/destruction of the Asbury electric facility , their choice to do that! They are charging us for the February 2021 Storm (whatever that is) There is a charge for an Energy Efficiency Program cost and a charge for an Energy Efficiency Investment. All of these charges seen quite arbitrary and a means to skirt the rate that is already approved. Their request for a 19% increase was ridiculous and now amending it, requesting a 30% increase is absolutely unbelievable. The Missouri Public Service Commission is supposed to protect the citizens of Missouri from these price gouging efforts. Start |
| P202501867 | 3/11/2025 11:09 AM | "The electric company wanted to go up 16-19% in November which is already insane. Now that Trump has threatened tariffs so now they have doubled that request. I think this is become our government is trying to charge them tariffs. Our utilities go up every year and we cannot afford it. The Commission needs to tell them no." |
| P202501868 | 3/11/2025 12:13 PM | I would like to oppose the rate increase proposed by Liberty utilities. |
| P202501870 | 3/11/2025 12:17 PM | I am writing to you about the recent request filed to the PSC from Liberty requesting a 29% increase on electricity rates. (see attached PDF) |
| P202501871 | 3/11/2025 12:23 PM | I find it incredibly hard to believe that Liberty’s cost of doing business is going up by 30%. I’ve been looking for information regarding why they think they need this and I’ve only found opinions. If there is a place where I can read a filing document it would be helpful. I sincerely hope the commission does not approve a 30% increase. Thanks. |
| P202501872 | 3/11/2025 12:29 PM | "They just had a rate increase in November. And they're already requesting another increase? That is not feasible. Plus they are a monopoly." |
| P202501873 | 3/11/2025 12:32 PM | Liberty wants rate hikes to make improvements, but we never see rate reduction from these improvements. Solar and wind farms do nothing for the consumers. Liberty requests rate hikes knowing they will never be denied. NO MORE RATE HIKES. |
| P202501875 | 3/11/2025 3:03 PM | See Attached |
| P202501876 | 3/11/2025 3:07 PM | See Attached |
| P202501878 | 3/11/2025 3:47 PM | Customer contacted and stated that she is a senior citizen, lives on a fixed income, and is on level pay. It seems like every time you turn around, the rates rise. When they switched to a new system, it took three months to get her bills corrected. Address what they have instead of increasing the rates. It's getting pretty bad out there. The call center is unable to answer your inquiries. No empathy at all. She hopes we will reconsider hiking rates. |
| P202501880 | 3/11/2025 4:22 PM | I am reaching out in regards to our astronomical billing rates that we already receive from Liberty Utilities. I reside in Webb City in a 1,400 sq ft home that costs us minimally $300 (but usually much higher a month) to keep at 68 degrees this winter. We are cautious with our usage. We are not home during the days from 630am-530pm and all electric that can be off, IS off. (See attached pdf) |
| P202501881 | 3/11/2025 4:24 PM | I see a lot of complaints online for this rate increase. It should raise major red flags that a company doubled their original rate increase out of nowhere. This is absolutely absurd. I work full time and have 3 children, 1 being special needs. Please help out the people of Joplin that are already suffering to make ends meet. I get zero assistance and pay all my own bills. Please don’t let this increase happen. We are struggling as it is. Currently I’m trying to sell a house and pay bills for both houses. I don’t even use electricity at the other house, and I still have a $30 bill a month. And Liberty refuses to split 2 houses into 2 separate bills so I can’t even tell where they are charging me. Thanks for your time |
| P202501883 | 3/12/2025 7:52 AM | This company is already extreme in its' rates, and our income of social security is not sufficient to survive this rate hike. |
| P202501884 | 3/12/2025 8:00 AM | I am opposed to any increase in rates for Liberty Utilities in Joplin. Rates are already too high. |
| P202501885 | 3/12/2025 8:16 AM | It has come to my attention that Liberty Utilities has filed for an amended rate increase of 29.64%, trying to basically put this off on President Trump's tariffs which is totally untrue. From inside sources at Liberty, they have purchased $700 million dollars' worth of computer upgrades to their systems and they are wanting customers to pay for this upgrade, that is the reason for this amended rate increase. This should NOT be allowed to happen. As hard-working Americans it sure would be nice to get a 29.64% pay increase, this company is greedy. This has to stop once and for all. This Canadian company continues to rip us off and they continue to get by with it. You all have to investigate this and put a stop to this once and for all! |
| P202501887 | 3/12/2025 9:04 AM | PLEASE do not approve of the proposed hike in prices from Liberty Utilities. They are high enough on the prices for the service they provide. I am struggling, as are many in the area of their service, to pay as it is. Thank you for your help. |
| P202501888 | 3/11/2025 | Joy is opposed to any increase in rates. The company is a mess, and it is apparent that Liberty has so many issues that they should not be given any increase in rates until they fix their problems. Issues are almost over a year long. She would like the PSC to not give Liberty any increase in rates. |
| P202501889 | 3/12/2025 9:07 AM | We are on social security, can't afford any higher rates. |
| P202501891 | 3/11/2025 | Patrick is on a fixed income. Rates for Liberty are already too high and are some of the highest rates in the state. He would like the PSC to deny any increase in rates. In addition, Liberty has numerous issues with their new system and do not deserve any increase in rates due to the number of problems they still have after almost a full year of having this new system. |
| P202501892 | 3/11/2025 | Jacob opposes any increase in rates. Would like the PSC to deny Liberty's request to raise rates. |
| P202501893 | 3/11/2025 | Colby would like the PSC to deny Liberty's rate increase. Rates are already too high, and he believes Liberty has some of the highest rates in the state. Liberty also has numerous issues with new system so they should not be given any increase in rates. |
| P202501895 | 3/12/2025 9:19 AM | See attached for comments |
| P202501896 | 3/12/2025 10:12 AM | Rick is a former (retired) emloyee of Empire Electric. He emailed a long and detailed email regarding Liberty & their rate case (SEE ATTACHED EMAIL). He is pointing out several issues he would like audited or reviewed as part of the rate case process |
| P202501897 | 3/12/2025 10:31 AM | My electric bill is higher since Liberty took over for Empire and their billing statements are very confusing. Talking to them does no good. |
| P202501901 | 3/12/2025 11:41 AM | In a time of extreme inflation and a high cost of living, Liberty is attempting to squeeze any extra money they can out of their customers with this price hike. Missouri residents know that this state provides both unpredictable and extreme weather, where temperatures in the summer often reach triple digits, and keeping a house/apartment above 80 degrees still racks up a high electricity bill. I urge the state of Missouri to do right by it's residents and stop Liberty from stealing more from us to overfill their already wealthy pockets. |
| P202501902 | 3/12/2025 12:45 PM | I am on a fixed income, and it will not go up 15-30 percent! These increase requests are outrageous and out of line with inflation and the ability for customers to continue to receive vital services. |
| P202501905 | 3/12/2025 1:33 PM | Customer contacted, saying it's outrageous after everything they've put people through in the last year, with invoices being different amounts every month and not receiving bills for four months. Over the years, we've been pretty lenient with them in terms of increases. We need to go in and audit. They need to conduct business in a better and more effective manner. She is worried about the elderly and persons with fixed incomes. |
| P202501906 | 3/12/2025 1:47 PM | Liberty has had multiple increases over the years, and Empire prior to that. What was Liberty's profit earnings for the last 2 years? What happened to the money from the other rate increases? 29.64% is ludicrous, The average person does not get an almost 30% increase in wages! Liberty has invested in the practice of Green Energy, which has been proven to NOT be a viable solution. Green energy costs more than it can produce and the maintenance and longevity is horrible. The figures saying only an increase of $30 -$39 is not even close to accurate! What is the average bill? My all-electric house would see an increase of over $100. Deny this rate increase and DOGE Liberty Utilities! We cannot shop around for Electric like a phone. |
| P202501907 | 3/12/2025 7:40 PM | To whom it may concern, I am writing to have this rate increase denied! Liberty has had multiple increases over the years, and Empire prior to that. What was Liberty's profit earnings for the last 2 years? what happened to the money from the other rate increases? 29.64% is ludacris, the average person does not get an almost 30% increase in wages! Liberty has invested in the practice of Green Energy, which has been proven to NOT be a viable solution. Green energy in FACT has cost more than it can produce and the maintenance and longevity is to say the least horrible. I and I'm sure all Liberty customers feel the same. . I ask you again to Deny this rate increase. We can not shop around for Electric like a phone, so not a fair system. |
| P202501909 | 3/13/2025 7:30 AM | Liberty (Empire District) is already receiving a Fuel Adjustment Charge when natural gas is at record low prices. They are also charging us for the removal/destruction of the Asbury electric facility, their choice to do that! They are charging us for the February 2021 Storm (whatever that is) There is a charge for an Energy Efficiency Program cost and a charge for an Energy Efficiency Investment. All of these charges seen quite arbitrary and a means to skirt the rate that is already approved. Their request for a 19% increase was ridiculous and now amending it, requesting a 30% increase is absolutely unbelievable. The Missouri Public Service Commission is supposed to protect the citizens of Missouri. |
| P202501910 | 3/13/2025 7:37 AM | We live in Joplin Missouri. Liberty Utilities is a Canadian electric company that bought out Empire electric. They have consistently and routinely asked for rate increases. They are now going to the public service commission in Missouri asking for a 30% rate increase! They are claiming it is because of the tariffs that President Trump placed on them and are expecting the consumers to pay for it. What is not being investigated is the over $700 million investment in computer equipment that they are passing on to the consumers! (See attached PDF) |
| P202501912 | 3/13/2025 8:27 AM | I want to know what someone is doing about our ridiculous high electric bills!! Our bill doubled from last winter and we do not use electric heat!!! This is ridiculous they are asking for another increase. How are we supposed to pay for this. When is someone going to do an audit and find out why they can charge so much!! When is someone going to look into everyone’s pockets getting padded by all of us paying these outrageous prices!! I know there is an investigation but why. Nothing will get done. The same ones investigating are the same ones who has approved every rate increase!! We are on limited income and struggling to pay our electric bill!! What do we have to do take out a loan because no one cares about what it is doing to all of us! |
| P202501914 | 3/13/2025 9:31 AM | These rate increases have got out of hand. Liberty is taking advantage of utility users. We have continually received rate increases. There is no reason customers should still be paying for February 2021 storm and Asbury cost. As a senior citizen this utility is asking us to pay too much. Additionally, we have had solar panels for nearly 5 years now and Liberty has not increased the amount they buy back the electric we produce. As a solar owner, I am responsible for my upkeep. Yet, Liberty expects consumers to pay for upkeep and fill their coffers with more profit. |
| P202501915 | 3/13/2025 10:49 AM | I am opposed to any increase in Liberty electric rates. |
| P202501916 | 3/13/2025 10:50 AM | I am opposed to any increase in Liberty Electric rates. |
| P202501920 | 3/13/2025 | Customer called and claimed that they are a monopoly, which is prohibited. They've done nothing but raise rates. We have never denied them a rate hike. When the electricity goes out, they are terrible at restoring it, unless you are in the commercial sector. He has gone 13-14 days without power. |
| P202501921 | 3/15/2025 7:52 AM | For many years, I have contacted them and let them know. I cannot get into my email. Could they please help me reset it? I get nothing from them finally last year I asked by phone if they would please start sending my bill to me by mail because I cannot see my bill at all. I have to call every month to see how much it is. For over three years at least I have not seen my bill or my usage at all they will not help me. The other issue I have would like everybody else. My bill is going up. I’m not using anymore. We’ve lived here almost 9 years. Two people we work 10 hour days. We are gone more than we’re here. We turn everything off. We have one light we use, but our bill goes up. Why why do we not have a choice other than Liberty? |
| P202501922 | 3/16/2025 2:41 PM | My bill is already so high, I cant afford to pay an extra $40 a month. Right now I pay $50 every Friday just so I can keep up with my bill. My paycheck is only $200 every Friday. I still have to pay all of my other bills too with what is left. This is ridiculous! Liberty won't stop gouging us for money until we are homeless. They have a monopoly on ALL of our utilities. Gas, Water, & Electric. Someone please help us!!! |
| P202501923 | 3/16/2025 6:06 PM | I do not agree with the rate increase the is being requested by Liberty. Over the last year alone, our overall electric bill costs for the year are already over $500 more than they were from the previous year. When people are having to pay more for their electric bills than our house payments that is an issue. We have lived in several different areas of Missouri and also Arkansas and Liberty is by far the most expensive electric company we have ever experienced for the same home size. We shouldn’t be made to endure another rate increase! |
| P202501924 | 3/17/2025 7:49 AM | "I am opposed to the proposed rate increase as follows: The Missouri Public Service Commission (PSC) accepted an amended rate filing request from Empire District Electric Company d/b/a Liberty and set new intervention and case decision deadlines".. *See attached for full comment. |
| P202501925 | 3/17/2025 7:52 AM | "Ok with the new request for the hike, then why don't you compensate this way... not having us liberty customers have included in their bill the Asbury plant closure. Why we are still paying for a plant closing nearly 3 years ago? We custom are already paying enough for electric. Raising it more going to make it more of a strain to afford it. Yes im on the budget planning (paying the same each month) but this will get me more behind and harder to catch it up! Give us customers a break somehow QUIT asking for hikes! " |
| P202501926 | 3/17/2025 8:25 AM | "I oppose this rate increase." |
| P202501927 | 3/17/2025 9:22 AM | "They're asking for a large hike in rates and we know several people who that would hurt. If they're under investigation for billing issues then a rate increase doesn't seem right." |
| P202501928 | 3/17/2025 9:37 AM | "Absolutely not to the rate increase. That is way too much. I used to work there and they need to trim costs elsewhere. People are already financially struggling. They waste too much money for them to be asking for this kind of increase." |
| P202501929 | 3/17/2025 9:49 AM | Ok with the new request for the hike, then why don't you compensate this way... not having us Liberty customers have included in their bill the Asbury plant closure. Why are we still paying for a plant closing nearly 3 years ago? We customer are already paying enough for electric. Raising it more is going to make it more of a strain to afford it. I'm on the budget planning (paying the same each month) but this will get me more behind and harder to catch it up! Give us customers a break. QUIT asking for hikes! |
| P202501930 | 3/17/2025 11:03 AM | "I have not gotten a bill since Aug, and they still have it screwed up, the bill is $2000.00. They do not deserve a rate increase. PSC, please do not approve a rate increase for Liberty." |
| P202501931 | 3/17/2025 11:51 AM | "Writing in regards to the proposed increase for electric by Liberty Utilities in the Joplin area. As a Single income household, these increase rates are larger than the average cost of living and cost of rising grocery price. Electricity is a basic necessity, an essential part of daily lives, not a luxury. Liberty Utilities has the monopoly on our electric, we have no other alternative energy providers. These rates are higher than other electric providers in the area of Missouri and Kansas, New-Mac and KAMO. Liberty Utilities has been continuously raising prices keeping Individuals and Families struggling, this community can not afford these in.." *Please see attached for full comment. |
| P202501932 | 3/17/2025 11:54 AM | "Thank you for reading, short and sweet, this exorbitant rate increase will devastate folks already struggling. We already pay well above the national average rate for utilities. Thank you so much for your representation and kind consideration." |
| P202501933 | 3/17/2025 12:03 PM | "They just had a rate increase. We are elderly and on SSI and are very responsible with our electric use and we cannot afford this. We need help." |
| P202501936 | 3/17/2025 12:22 PM | "Liberty does not need this raise. What are people supposed to do? I've got COPD and won't be able to afford to use our A/C if they raise this high. There are going to be a lot more homeless people because of these things rising." |
| P202501937 | 3/17/2025 1:25 PM | Liberty's rate increase is ridiculous. We already pay a high amount, higher than most other companies around. They always talk about 1000KWH, but we don't know anyone who uses that. Most people average around 1600 KWH. So this increase will really affect out cost of living. |
| P202501938 | 3/17/2025 1:48 PM | "As a resident and taxpayer of this county, I am writing to express my serious concerns regarding the proposed rate increase by Liberty Utilities.".. *Please see attached. |
| P202501939 | 3/17/2025 1:49 PM | These rate hikes are twice a much as they should be. We paid so much less when we lived within a co-op. When the members were mismanaging money, as I suspect is happening here, we voted them out. I don't mind giving them the cost of living of 2.3 percent that I just got but with all these surcharges on top of this much of an increase is too much. |
| P202501940 | 3/17/2025 2:08 PM | It is absolutely absurd the amount that has to be paid for electric from this company. We live in a small 3 bedroom town home that cost us $350 a month to maintain electric and soars higher in the hard summer and winter. This company is a monopoly and isn't being controlled by the state properly. Enough is enough. People deserve to have fair prices. |
| P202501941 | 3/17/2025 2:23 PM | "I am definitely against yet another rate increase for Liberty. They are simply crushing the life out of many people with their current high rates, billing issues, and lack of decent communications with customers reaching out to them. We are currently paying for some snow storm and demolition of a power plant on top of those rates. When will you tell that big fat company enough is enough? No, No, No Signed registered voter...." |
| P202501942 | 3/17/2025 2:24 PM | Systematically this electric company abuses their power. They charge whatever they want. Another increase is beyond reasonable. We are going into the summer with high costs in food, utilities, gas insurance just everything we need to survive. An increase in costs of service???? what about the customer? They have brown outs that destroy your appliances, and they call it an act of God? Please DO NOT VOTE FOR THIS! |
| P202501944 | 3/17/2025 2:32 PM | "This is an absurd request. 30 percent should be denied considering the poor service and performance. After searching their other service areas, the same negative responses were given. We were used to quality, prompt service not a company that is behind, over charges, and poor responses. People on retirement cannot keep up with their increases. Please deny. Still surprised we have a foreign country being allowed to be in charge of a utility!" |
| P202501945 | 3/17/2025 2:40 PM | "The rate hike is crazy! With everything going on now with the cost of food, medication , gas and so on. We Senior’s live on a fixed income. I pray that our Government in the State of Missouri listens to us. We just had a rate hike last year and now Liberty wants 30 percent more? People can barely survive now with the cost of everything going up. So please listen to the people who voted you into office. And I don’t even understand how the State of Missouri would think this ok. It’s beyond belief of what we’re seeing happening. There will be more seniors doing without their medicine, food, even going to the doctors. Not only will this hurt Seniors but anyone that has to live on a budget...*please see attached for full comment. |
| P202501946 | 3/17/2025 2:51 PM | 65% higher than Southwest per KW in the same area and they are asking for another price increase. Please audit and do not give any additional increases |
| P202501947 | 3/17/2025 2:58 PM | "I don't think they deserve an increase. I have no faith in them after all of these billing issues." |
| P202501948 | 3/17/2025 3:27 PM | "As a resident and taxpayer of this county, I am writing to express my serious concerns regarding the proposed rate increase by Liberty Utilities. Currently, Liberty Utilities' rates are approximately 65% higher than those of Southwest Electric. Despite this significant disparity, Liberty Utilities is seeking approval for yet another rate increase. This situation is particularly troubling as residents have no alternative provider options. The monopolistic nature of this arrangement places an undue burden on consumers who have no choice but to accept continually increasing rates. I respectfully request that the regulatory body carefully consider the impact these repeated rate increases have on.."*Please see attached for full comment. |
| P202501949 | 3/17/2025 3:31 PM | *Please see Attached for the comment . |
| P202501950 | 3/17/2025 3:35 PM | "I say heck no!!!!!!!!!!! I have never had anything increase 30%. I am a 74 year old veteran on social security. Trump is screwing us, Musk is screwing us and now Liberty wants to join the club. Where is it going to stop?" |
| P202501951 | 3/17/2025 4:47 PM | "I am opposed to this increase. I am a senior citizen on a fixed income and this would have a huge negative impact on my life. I've been a customer since the 1970s and it has gotten ridiculous." |
| P202501953 | 3/18/2025 8:39 AM | *Please see attached for comment. |
| P202501955 | 3/18/2025 9:20 AM | "I oppose this rate increase. " |
| P202501956 | 3/18/2025 9:24 AM | "I oppose this rate increase. Being on a fixed income, it is really hard to stay within budget, we cannot afford any more increases at this time." |
| P202501957 | 3/17/2025 | The customer called and stated that she does not want any rate hikes. They must find another way to make money without exploiting the poor. |
| P202501959 | 3/18/2025 1:07 PM | Ms. Sweetwood is opposed to any increase for Liberty Electric, especially given the large number of customers who are dealing with the company's many billing issues. |
| P202501960 | 3/18/2025 1:55 PM | Here are a number of concerns that people have for Liberty Utilities. (See attached.) |
| P202501961 | 3/18/2025 3:10 PM | As a resident, Business owner, and taxpayer of this county (Greene), I am writing to express my serious concerns regarding the proposed rate increase by Liberty Utilities. (see attached PDF) |
| P202501962 | 3/18/2025 3:18 PM | I am writing to oppose Liberty's request to increase rates. Many people in our area are on a fixed income. The last two bills I have paid for electric service have been almost $500. That is difficult to pay already. How do they expect people to afford an additional 30%? I have found at least twice that I was charged almost double by Liberty because they estimated my usage, and when I compared the bill to my actual meter they had overestimated by several hundred kWh. I had to call and email several times to get my bill corrected. I can't imagine how many other people they have done this to that just paid the bill without question. Their billing practices need to be examined and proven accurate and legitimate before they ask for more. |
| P202501963 | 3/18/2025 3:26 PM | My wife and I recently moved from McDonald County into the city of Neosho. Our prior 21 years, electric service was by New-Mac Electric Co-op, and rate increases have always been modest ones and were accepted that all costs associated with electric service increase as materials, labor and events dictate. The service was very dependable with few outages, mainly due to storms. The crews and management were always up front about any increases that might be happening to the rate of electric usage. Now, having just moved at the end of January, we are finding that Liberty, Canadian-owned company that was allowed to purchase Empire District Electric, are asking for a very unreasonable increase. (See attached PDF) |
| P202501964 | 3/18/2025 4:34 PM | Customer called to say he was against it. He worked for a prior electric company for 15 years and watched Liberty raise its rates year after year. They requested this pricing hike due to the ongoing investigation. His concerns include invoicing each customer for the $15 Asbury cost. He believes that their rates are already much and above what other companies charge. He cannot comprehend how they can continue to raise their rates. Where is the money going? He sees failed attempts at windmills and solar fields. They are going to drive people out of the markets. He doesn't understand how they aren't making or losing money. Someone has to stand up for these individuals. It nearly feels like every year. When will it stop? |
| P202501965 | 3/19/2025 8:21 AM | See attached for comments |
| P202501966 | 3/19/2025 8:23 AM | See attached |
| P202501967 | 3/19/2025 8:25 AM | Please for the sake of the people who voted you into office, do not vote to pass this rate increase. Many of us middle class families are already struggling to make ends meet with the inflation we have encountered over recent years along with the high cost of utilities that are already in effect. For the families you represent, please put a stop to this! |
| P202501968 | 3/19/2025 8:27 AM | This rate increase request is outrageous. **See attached for full comments |
| P202501970 | 3/19/2025 8:47 AM | I am writing to express my deep concerns regarding the excessive utility rates imposed by Liberty Utilities and the apparent lack of oversight by the Missouri Public Energy Commission. These rates are placing an overwhelming financial burden on families and businesses alike. **See attached for full comments |
| P202501973 | 3/17/2025 | Pam is a senior citizen on a fixed income. She can barely afford rates now and cannot afford another rate increase. What Liberty is asking for is outrageous. She is requesting the PSC to deny Liberty's request. Their customer service and billing issues with new system are horrible and they do not deserve any increase in rates. |
| P202501974 | 3/17/2025 | Cynthia is opposed to any increase in rates. Wants PSC to say "no" to increase. |
| P202501975 | 3/17/2025 | Mary is on social security and is on a fixed income. Rates are already too high. What Liberty is asking for is ridiculous. They have poor customer service & billing issues and do not deserve a rate increase. |
| P202501976 | 3/18/2025 | Laura is against rate increase. Liberty has poor customer service and several issues with new system. They don't deserve a raise when they cannot fix their problems after almost an entire year of knowing the new system had issues. There is no way the PSC should grant any increase in rates. |
| P202501978 | 3/19/2025 10:49 AM | "I oppose the rate increase that Liberty is asking for." |
| P202501979 | 3/19/2025 10:51 AM | "I oppose this rate increase. I have to get assistance to help pay my Liberty utility bills already. They have already went from $300.00 a month to $1130.00 a month for a 2 bedroom mobile home!" |
| P202501980 | 3/19/2025 12:04 PM | " I oppose this increase; it would raise the bill by entirely too much at one time." |
| P202501982 | 3/19/2025 12:18 PM | William wants the PSC to deny Liberty's rate increase request. Rates are already high enough. It is ridiculous that Liberty would ask that much of an increase when they have so many issues they can't fix. |
| P202501983 | 3/19/2025 1:41 PM | "I am a 78 year old disabled lady on a fixed income and I am aware of Liberty raising their fees once again. We are all at their mercy. We have to use them and have no other choice in our area. I know of other cities that give you options of different companies to choose from that helps to keep fees lower? Why not in Joplin? So I am asking if you can essentially be the voice of reason for those of us caught in the middle? Thank you in advance." |
| P202501984 | 3/19/2025 1:51 PM | "I oppose this rate increase. This is way too high, and it seems the service is getting worse yet the prices keep going up." |
| P202501985 | 3/19/2025 2:11 PM | "The Commission should reject this rate increase. 30% is too high. If they were asking for 2,3 or even 5% that would be more acceptable. SW electric nearby charges half of what Liberty charges. Liberty service is horrible, the billing is terrible. This kind of increase is hard on people with a fixed income. " |
| P202501987 | 3/19/2025 4:21 PM | "I oppose the rate increase that Liberty is requesting. We struggle to pay their high bills now. " |
| P202501989 | 3/20/2025 8:19 AM | "I do not think it is appropriate for them to increase 30%. Our bills are extremely high now without the increase and this will make everyone struggle. |
| P202501990 | 3/20/2025 10:39 AM | "I understand that Liberty is asking for another price hike. This is ridiculous. They say that had an accounting error is why? Come on. That’s like me telling the company that pays me that they should pay me more because my checkbook was wrong. We are already paying for the storm damage in which when they cut power on many of us. We also incurred damages from them turning off power. Did they pay us? No. .."*Please see attached for full commment. |
| P202501991 | 3/20/2025 12:02 PM | Utility rates are the highest they've ever been, but also an absolute necessity for every American. However, we cannot choose our utility companies and are held prisoner to their rates. As a full time employee, working an additional side business as a way to make ends meet, and a family of 6 people, we are already under undue financial strain to make ends meet and have had issues keeping the lights on as-is. With everything moving to technology, which is electricity based, this will have a severe impact on our quality of life if rates increase even more. Thank you for your consideration. |
| P202501992 | 3/20/2025 1:09 PM | An approved increase of this magnitude will cause further economic hardship in an already impoverished region of SW Missouri, irrespective of utility investment. Fixed income households (i.e., Seniors, Disabled Veterans, Service Workers) are the most susceptible to utility increases. Should Liberty customers in Neosho be subjected to a 29.64% increase when considering the following data? Source: https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/neoshocitymissouri/PST045223 · Per capita income in past 12 months (in 2023 dollars), 2019-2023: $25,637 · Persons in poverty, percent: 15.8% (methodology discrepancy noted) |
| P202501994 | 3/20/2025 2:12 PM | "Please do NOT allow a rate hike again for Liberty. Their half a Billion a year in profit is enough. " |
| P202501995 | 3/20/2025 2:15 PM | "It is incredible to even think of raising the rates. Quit bring greedy and treat us with compassion. I will go solar if you raise it again." |
| P202501997 | 3/20/2025 2:29 PM | "I am a senior citizen and I can barely afford my electricity. Many people, not only seniors are having a hard time right now. Please stop the increase 🙏 for the love of God. Thank you in advanced for your help." |
| P202501998 | 3/20/2025 2:45 PM | "Empire District Electric Company (Liberty Utilities) has filed an amended rate filing with the Missouri Public Service Commission (PSC) requesting a rate increase of $152 million, an increase of 29.64%. Source: https://psc.mo.gov/Electric/PSC_Receives_Libertys_Amended_Rate_Request-Extends_Intervention_Case_Deadline--pr-25-21 " *Please see attached for full comment. |
| P202501999 | 3/21/2025 7:34 AM | "Liberty utilities had a rate hike, not too long ago. It is too soon for them to be given another opportunity to do the same. " |
| P202502000 | 3/21/2025 7:42 AM | "We do not need more increase in rate..We already pay a lot .what this people wants to do .If they keep increasing rates a lot of people will be sitting in the dark .We can not afford, more please stop them.. please " |
| P202502001 | 3/21/2025 7:50 AM | "I am a customer of liberty electric in Branson Missouri. My name is Tim Gould and I live at 1013 Cliff Dr. in Branson 65616. Being notified about the request for increase by some 29%. I find this request excessive and unwarranted, considering the profits that the company is enjoying. Please help this retired, senior citizen, and the cost of living increases that we have seen in the last five years for fixed income individuals. Sent from my iPhone" |
| P202502002 | 3/21/2025 7:53 AM | "Am NOT in favor of any further electricity rate hike by this company, Liberty Electric. Do not see any need for a further rate hike at this time, in light of it not having even been a full year since the most recent rate hike was approved and enacted" |
| P202502003 | 3/21/2025 10:06 AM | I am writing to request that the Public Service Commission deny Empire Electric District/Liberty Utilities’ rate increase request. The percentage of the rate increase goes so far above the standard cost of living increase. The requested rate increase will put even greater financial pressure on customers who, as you know and are likely experiencing, are already dealing with rising costs of basic needs like food. Please deny their current request. I imagine a rate increase of some measure is inevitable, but please negotiate a more reasonable rate increase that is more in line with the standard cost of living increase. Perhaps White River Valley Electric Co-op would like to make a counter offer and manage more of this region’s electricity?! |
| P202502004 | 3/21/2025 10:08 AM | "Electric rates in Southwest Missouri are already extremely high. Liberty should perhaps find another way to reduce their expenses? Electrical service reliability has plummeted here in Branson especially in the last 3 to 4 years as compared to the previous 30 years." |
| P202502006 | 3/21/2025 10:33 AM | "If they have such poor billing practices then they should not receive a rate increase; especially what they are asking." |
| P202502007 | 3/21/2025 10:39 AM | "I beg for your consideration to reject Liberty Utilities rate increase request. As consumers we have been forced to pay for their company's mistakes and misfortunes, such as the Asbury plant and Winter Storm in 2021. They have unlimited unchecked power, and they have a complete monopoly for electric services in the Joplin area. There is no other alternate company to use here. We are forced to pay whatever they choose, and we are a low income community... We have almost no resources for bill assistance in our area. I have had to let my bill accumulate to 2000 because I literally cannot pay anything towards it and there is NO help. Please consider those of us who cannot afford ANY increases." |
| P202502008 | 3/21/2025 11:30 AM | I am against Liberty hiking their rates again. It's hard enough to make ends meet these days and there's no reason for them to do this. Unless they're needing us to pay for all their new buildings. Also, if the governor passes SB 4 we're really going to be hurting. My husband and I are seniors and on a fixed income. We aren't on any government assistance and we struggle to keep our heads above water. Please consider how this will affect folks like us. Thank you for your time. |
| P202502009 | 3/21/2025 2:09 PM | "Please please please do not let Liberty utilities that serves Branson MO have a rate increase. I live in a condo with two inside walls and only two outside walls and my bill averages 389 a month for this winter. And I keep my heat on 64 and just suffer thru the cold. How much are their executives making in salaries and bonuses. Most of us suffer with paying bills these days. I think k they could give up some of there billions in profit and salaries or find more efficient methods ! Thank you " |
| P202502010 | 3/21/2025 2:26 PM | "Why is it necessary to have another rate hike? Why do you not have the meters read every month? We have solar panels but every winter our electric bill is as high as it was without the solar production. Each year when I challenge my bill, ironically it decreases significantly the very next month. I want my meter read accurately every month—not estimated. Each year I am told the bill was high because of the cold weather. I do not EVER use my furnace—we have gas heat, and we do not use a blower on the fireplace. There is absolutely no reason for my electricity usage to increase in the winter. When I see another rate increase coming I worry about all of the people barely getting by..."*See attached for full comment |
| P202502013 | 3/21/2025 3:14 PM | "As an addition to this email, my understanding is that Liberty is under investigation, I would also say that they should get ZERO rate increase until that investigation is over. Giving them more money when they are already gouging customers would be asinine." *Please see attached for FULL comment. |
| P202502016 | 3/21/2025 4:47 PM | Mr. Warren is opposed to any increase for Liberty Electric. |
| P202502019 | 3/23/2025 12:00 PM | I have been a resident of Branson since 2003. I make just over minimum wage in retail sales. Please do NOT let Liberty have this extremely unreasonably huge rate hike!!! |
| P202502020 | 3/24/2025 8:10 AM | We live on a fixed income and 30 percent is way too much. The price of everything has gone up and our income source has not. 30 percent is just a lot. |
| P202502021 | 3/24/2025 8:57 AM | "I am writing to express my strong opposition to the 29.64% rate hike requested by Liberty, which they have asked you to approve. I believe Liberty is not being fully transparent about the necessity of this increase, and I object to it for the following reasons: "*Please see attached for full comment |
| P202502023 | 3/24/2025 10:11 AM | "I am very much against them getting a rate increase. We have had very poor service with Liberty since the first of the year. It has been a constant battle with them regarding billing." |
| P202502024 | 3/24/2025 10:24 AM | "I would like to voice my opinion against Liberty rate increase. 1. They are already charging so much that many people are struggling to pay their utility bill now, let alone with another increase..." *Please see attached for full comment. |
| P202502025 | 3/24/2025 11:04 AM | In response to the insufficient “consumer comments” from my call on 3/20/25, I request my actual comments to follow, be used in its entirety. (see attached PDF) |
| P202502026 | 3/24/2025 11:06 AM | "I am 73 years old on SSI. Our COLA was 2.5% but Liberty is asking for a 30% increase. I spent the winter w/ my heat on 60 degrees and still had a $65 electric bill in a brand new building. This kind of increase would be impossible for people on fixed incomes." |
| P202502027 | 3/24/2025 11:07 AM | "In the matter of the request for Liberty Utilities request for yet another rate increase, I am writing as a concerned citizen. Their rates are already one of the highest I have seen, and I previously lived in a higher cost living area of Portland, Oregon. It simply doesn't make sense that a 900 sq ft house's electric could be over $400 for one month, and MANY people across social media have been complaining of similar costs or worse. The rates are already unaffordable for many citizens in the area and people are already struggling. It also seems very strange to me that any rate increase would be considered for Liberty Utilities whilst they are under investigation for their billing and customer service practices. |
| P202502029 | 3/24/2025 11:09 AM | "I have been a Branson resident since 2003. I want to have my say regarding the case number: ER-2024-0261 My consumer comment would be that Liberty has had enough rate hikes in this area. Please do NOT allow them to raise our rates again!" |
| P202502030 | 3/24/2025 11:26 AM | "It seems very strange that they need to amend the amount of their original request. I know they are a for-profit organization but at whose expense? Southwest Electric is a not-for-profit electricity company and they have rate changes very seldom and provide a great service. Since they just increased water and sewer rates for Bolivar by 63% over 4 years, how are those on fixed incomes and big consumers of electricity, such as the hospital and Southwest Baptist University, going to be able to afford this?" |
| P202502031 | 3/24/2025 12:26 PM | "The fact that Liberty even requested the 15.9% increased shows that they are poor managers of their money. And then to turn around and increase their request to 29.64% is an insult on your intelligence. Being from Bolivar we know firsthand about their mismanagement. Several times they've made requests and when there was a pushback, they said oops we didn't figure the numbers right. Instead of agreeing to their current request, which is almost double their original, consider cutting their original request in half and making them live on a budget like the rest of us. For example, a few years back, I think five, Liberty operated out of a small, rented space in a strip mall. There was no trouble with billing.."*See attached for full comment |
| P202502032 | 3/24/2025 1:54 PM | I think this rate increase is egregiously large. Liberty just received 43.5 & 4.7 million dollar grant from the Department of Energy to cover costs for the same thing that they are asking for in this rate case. I ask that the PSC please look into these grants and make sure that they are included in the decision making process. |
| P202502033 | 3/24/2025 2:23 PM | A 15% rate increase is large enough, but turning around and doubling it is absolute madness. There is no possible way that a regulated monopoly deserves a pay increase of that much. In addition, Liberty has raised rates time and time again on customers. We pay several surcharges in addition to the rate charge. We have also given Liberty a grant of nearly $50 million to upgrade infrastructure through the Department of Energy as announced in 10/2024. I believe the investments claimed for this rate increase are being made are driven by a desire to increase rates without regard for the needs or limits of customer budgets. Investigate this company and deny this rate increase please! |
| P202502036 | 3/24/2025 4:49 PM | Please stand up and say "No!" to Empire District's amended rate hike request. At a time when literally everything is costing Missourians more and more, Empire requests to increase its profits by $152 million. This is an unnecessary rate hikes. Empire received millions after the Joplin tornado to build severe weather protection into their utility at the cost of millions, past rate hike approved allowed that. Seems like a double dip. Also it seems as though Liberty/Empire ask for at least 2 rate hikes a year. Profit is not as important as affordability at this moment in time. Utilities should not be stock companies. Utilities should not be worried about profits for stock holders. Utilities should be owned by those that use them. Say "NO!" |
| P202502039 | 3/25/2025 7:50 AM | "My husband and I are both medical professionals who recently accepted positions at a hospital in Bolivar, Missouri. As part of our transition, we sought to establish roots in the community and began searching for housing. We engaged with local residents through the Bolivar Facebook page, eager to integrate into the area and make a home there. However, after receiving extensive feedback from the community regarding the severe financial burden imposed by Liberty Utilities, we made the difficult decision to rescind our offer on a home in Bolivar...*See attached for full comment. |
| P202502041 | 3/25/2025 7:59 AM | "I am writing to express significant concerns about Liberty’s recently amended request to increase its annual electric revenues by approximately $152 million—a 29.64% rate hike. This request follows the company’s original November 6, 2024, filing, which sought a 15.99% increase. If approved, the revised request would substantially impact Missouri residents in several ways: .."*See attached for full comment. |
| P202502042 | 3/25/2025 8:34 AM | "Why should a company making record profits year over year be entitled to take more money out of the pockets of people who can sometimes barely be able to pay their electric bill? Sometimes not at all. What are they putting back into the community for this rate hike? Or is the money just going into somebody wearing a suit and tie? Especially a company who is under investigation for deceptive billing practices and horrible customer service. Just my 2 cents." |
| P202502043 | 3/25/2025 8:58 AM | "I am exist this rate increase. We loved on a fixed income so that would make it harder. 30% is out of hand." |
| P202502045 | 3/25/2025 11:46 AM | "I oppose this rate increase. My electric bills have been astronomically high without legitimate reason. " |
| P202502047 | 3/25/2025 2:44 PM | "I don't feel it the rate increase is justifed, especially considering the ongoing profit margin of this company. This 30% increase out weighs the cost of living raises that few people do get. It is making it extremely difficult to keep up ith the electric bill monthly. I oppose this rate increase." |
| P202502048 | 3/25/2025 2:51 PM | "I am opposed to this rate increase. My budget will be greatly impacted by such an increase. Those of us who are on a fixed income cannot afford this." |
| P202502049 | 3/25/2025 4:13 PM | "They evidently do not have their act together and there is something fishy with how they have sold the company out. There are several tax assessments to see what the company has been spending their money on. They already are able to charge the securitization charge and now they want 30% increase? Absolutely not. A definite no." |
| P202502050 | 3/25/2025 4:58 PM | "The request is egregious but there really is no excuse for that. They will use inflation as an excuse but methods of producing energy is getting easier and should be less expensive. If they utilize more renewable sources or actually starting putting the electrical lines underground or the customer's receive some type of refunds after the projects are completed." |
| P202502051 | 3/25/2025 10:17 PM | They have made utilities unaffordable for a normal income as it is there is absolutely no reason to go higher to line their pockets. When a normal home with 5 people is paying close to $500 a month. There is no room to pay anything else. You just pray nothing major breaks or kid need anything big. Because I should not have to get a 2nd job just to pay my utilities. There has got to be a happy medium some where. My house is not huge I don’t keep it extremely warm or cold. Just want to survive. I’m not asking a lot just to have reasonable utilities. So maybe other things like car payment and insurance would not be such a burden. I don’t want to get a second job just to survive and hope that nothing breaks or rates get higher. Thank you |
| P202502053 | 3/26/2025 8:43 AM | "I don't believe we should have to pay for the utility co to build new stations. They make millions and I'm a sr. citizen-I'm 86 years old- and I can't afford a raise. You are going to make me homeless. I already pay $300-$400 per month for utilities which is ridiculous, and I certainly don't want to pay for any new stations. They make millions, let them pay for it." |
| P202502055 | 3/20/2025 | Rebecca is on a fixed income and cannot afford current rates. Rate increase in not fair, and Liberty has so many issues they should not be given a rate increase. Liberty also just got an increase not long ago. Requesting the PSC to deny rate increase. |
| P202502056 | 3/26/2025 11:13 AM | "The rates that we all ready pay is doubled compared to other service areas and it is sad. People are living on SSI and cannot afford their utility bills. |
| P202502058 | 3/20/2025 | John is on a fixed income and cannot afford another rate increase. Liberty rates are already high enough compared to others in Missouri. |
| P202502059 | 3/20/2025 | Dawn is against Liberty asking for a rate increase. She believes it is ridiculous they are even asking for a rate increase when they have system problems and cannot bill customers correctly. She is requesting the PSC to deny Liberty the rate increase and force them to fix problems first before even considering an increase in rates. |
| P202502060 | 3/25/2025 | Marian is on a fixed income and is opposed to any increase in rates. |
| P202502061 | 3/26/2025 1:44 PM | "This is getting really ridiculous with the increase. I’m on a fixed income SS. I’m a month behind almost every month paying parcel payments to keep my power on this increase will devastate myself and lots of others in my situation. I’ve worked over 50 years to retire and now I have to spend big chunks of my retirement just to have power . No on the increase. " |
| P202502063 | 3/27/2025 11:13 AM | Attached is my letter of comment re the proposed electric rates increase of Liberty Electric (Case No. ER-2024-0261). Kindly submit my letter for citizen commenting on this case. |
| P202502064 | 3/27/2025 11:17 AM | I really want you to take a look at the problems your people are facing with Liberty Utilities. The public service commission is not doing anything to help, allowing rate increase and rate increase, and you guys think it’s a good idea to let them go even higher for their projects? It’s their investment. Why would they not take the hit? In Bolivar we only have Liberty. We have no choice. We have to pay crazy prices or move. It’s a monopoly. (see attached) |
| P202502077 | 3/28/2025 8:59 AM | Have been trying to get a street light fixed since November. I've been called at least six times. Why should they have a rate increase when they won't even fix a street lightbulb??? |
| P202502086 | 3/31/2025 9:33 AM | I’m Tricia Price, Ward 1 Alderman candidate in Bolivar, Missouri—a small city of hardworking folks with little to spare. See attached for full comments |
| P202502087 | 3/31/2025 9:35 AM | I'm Tricia Price, Ward 1 Alderman candidate in Bolivar -- a small city of hardworking folks with little to spare. We're under the thumb of Liberty Utilities, a Canadian-owned company charging us among the highest electric rates in Missouri, pushing for even more, and failing to deliver bills on time or accurately. Our low-income families can't take this. (See attached pdf) |
| P202502088 | 3/31/2025 9:39 AM | We are opposed to another tax hike with Liberty Electric. |
| P202502089 | 3/31/2025 11:55 AM | These drunken scumbags will not send me my electric bill, and they are refusing to answer their phone. They need to be locked up and the keys thrown away. |
| P202502091 | 3/31/2025 1:08 PM | See attached. |
| P202502108 | 4/4/2025 4:30 PM | "I'm a resident in Bolivar Mo. I was unable to attend the Public Service meeting last night. I did hear a lot of the comments on facebook live. A lot of people are upset with the rates and service of Liberty. As a comment was made from a realtor how a lot of prospective buyers come to his office, they ask who serves the Bolivar area, Liberty or Southwest Electric? He said that having Liberty is very negative to buyers which in turn are driving home prices down. My question would be, how can Southwest Electric rates be so reasonable compared to Liberty. Liberty has a monopoly on electric and water and sewer. Please help keep the rates that Liberty is charging or give us the choice to choose a competitor to serve us..* see attached |
| P202502127 | 4/9/2025 9:53 AM | See attached |
| P202502137 | 4/10/2025 2:44 PM | Andrea is unhappy with Liberty's customer service and billing with the new CIS system. It has been a year now since Liberty went to this new system and they still have so many problems. She would like the PSC to deny any increase in rates due to how horrible this new system and billing is. |
| P202502140 | 4/10/2025 8:07 PM | We went from a 2000 SQF home in Greene County to a 1700 SQF home in Dallas County. Since moving our bill doubled, though we have switched all appliances to energy efficient, all the light bulbs, plugs, and even light fixtures. We use alternative heat (gas, wood, coal) a year since moving in. Our bill for winter has been as high or higher as when we had to use portable heaters the first year and are always told its because of cold weather....I finally received a bill since November for 02/06/25-03/31/25 for 379.43. At this time we were using wood, and gas for heating (both sources) as needed There is no way our bill should be that high. We are also having to pay for a storm from 2021 which was not even in our state, and asking for more? |
| P202502153 | 4/14/2025 7:58 AM | I am writing to voice my strong opposition to Liberty Utilities' request for a rate increase. They are currently under investigation for unfair and inaccurate billing practices, they should not receive any rate increases until that is resolved They have also been telling their shareholders about record profits the last couple of years, with record profits it's hard to understand any justification for a rate increase other than their desire to further increase their profits. Please deny all of their requests for rate increases. |
| P202502154 | 4/14/2025 8:03 AM | Please stop raising our rates! Check all the local rates around our area and they do not compare! I’m technically in Carthage and would much rather pay CWEP rates but unfortunately cannot due to our location. The rate increases have to stop. We sit in our home with no air or no heat running, windows open, nothing on during the daytime hours and still have $300-$400 bills! |
| P202502155 | 4/14/2025 8:05 AM | Liberty Utilities are a monopoly and taking financial gain from being the only Electric company for Jasper County residents. People are unable to afford their electric bills as it is. This is breaking communities. They should not be allowed to raise rates at all. In fact, rates should be cut and stop charging people for weather extremes from several years ago. The change in weather each year is expected and part of their job. NO RATE INCREASE! |
| P202502156 | 4/14/2025 8:08 AM | I am writing to express my strong opposition to the support of Liberty Electric due to their wasteful use of tax dollars and subsidies. Over the past two months, I have received multiple printed duplicate bills for the same account, resulting in unnecessary mailings and wasteful spending. This level of inefficiency and greed is unacceptable. As a property owner in Sac Osage and Ameren territories, I can attest that other utility providers do not exhibit such blatant disregard for resources. It is vital that we hold companies like Liberty accountable and demand better practices. I urge you to reconsider supporting Liberty Electric and take a stand against their wasteful behavior. Our community deserves better. T |
| P202502157 | 4/14/2025 8:11 AM | I feel they are asking for too much of an increase! The entire area serviced by this utility company is suffering financially at this point with higher costs of everything from food, fuel, daycare just to mention a few. (See attached pdf) |
| P202502158 | 4/14/2025 8:14 AM | Please! Do not allow Liberty Utilities to raise their rates. My statements this last few months are seriously causing a financial hardship. I'm a senior on Social security and I am already struggling to pay their monthly bills. I'm having difficulty buying groceries, keeping my up with medication, medical expenses, rent and Utilities. |
| P202502176 | 4/14/2025 10:26 AM | For the past six months, the billing has been a mess. Not only is it wrong, but they went from bills being 2 pages in a small envelope to 6 pages in a large envelop. Just that increase in postage and paper alone would probably ake care of what they're asking for in an increase. |
| P202502177 | 4/14/2025 10:28 AM | Liberty can't even get their billing problems fixed, let alone wanting a 29 percent increase, Now they want to up the surcharge on fuel? The PSC needs to stop this. |
| P202502194 | 4/14/2025 11:45 AM | "I think it is shameful for Liberty to request a rate increase based on their failed software implementation and I would be curious to know if their executives are still receiving bonuses despite them asking for a rate increase. |
| P202502210 | 4/14/2025 2:40 PM | "Liberty has been cheating us! No to the increase!" |
| P202502217 | 4/14/2025 2:57 PM | Charla is opposed to any increase in rates. Poorly ran company. Horrible customer service and billing. They cannot fix their new system that was put in over a year ago. There is no way they should get an increase when they cannot fix their problems. |
| P202502233 | 4/14/2025 4:07 PM | "Please do not increase the electricity rate again. It's high enough as it is. We are retired and we are all ready have a tough time trying to make ends meet. The last thing we need is an increase in utility bills. |
| P202502240 | 4/14/2025 8:09 PM | The customer expressed frustration over rate increases, stating that costs are already high due to prior storm-related expenses. She believes the utility company should have budgeted better instead of passing costs onto customers. She also reported issues with billing delays, insufficient time to pay, and late fees-though one was waived. Additionally, she received seven bills at once, which she paid. |
| P202502242 | 4/15/2025 8:05 AM | "My bill went from $70 per month to $120 per month. Now with a $33-$39 increase coming, this 74 year old living on social security cannot afford this. Where are we seniors supposed to come more money?" |
| P202502259 | 4/15/2025 9:09 AM | Why are you letting Liberty continue to raise our rates?? They do this every year for various reasons. Yet, they are making money hand over fist & us, your customers, keep losing money every month, especially in this economy. You also do not allow us a choice in our electricity service. We do no have the choice. Who is going to speak for us??? |
| P202502260 | 4/15/2025 9:12 AM | This is absolutely ridiculous!! Show me a FOR PROFIT COMPANY that the state authorizes to keep raising rates and charge for things that are not even here any longer. *See attached for full comments |
| P202502261 | 4/15/2025 9:14 AM | I am a single, retired citizen and trying to stretch every dollar just to survive. I know I am not the only one in this situation. I do know a rate increase of 1/3 will hurt most of us in the area. Maybe Liberty should review costs vs rates more often. |
| P202502273 | 4/15/2025 9:38 AM | This is a no for most normal people!!! do not let them raise rates again!!! Liberty is a monalpy on electric if we could chose who to receive our electric from, Liberty would have no customer. I still paying for some storm from back in 2021... why? maybe if they ran there company right they would not need a rate increase. 5bill in one month? all with different amounts? who do they have running things? VOTE NO on Rate increase we cant afford any more!!!!! Susan Unhappy Liberty Customer |
| P202502276 | 4/15/2025 9:55 AM | "This request should not even be considered until Liberty can actually meet the most basic competencies of a legitimate company. Our disabled son and his disabled roommate live in Goodman and have not received their Liberty bill since DECEMBER. The company only responds with excuses and lies as to where their bill is. Both these men are on social security disability. Liberty cannot even get them a bill. Terrible customer service. No Increase is warranted." |
| P202502278 | 4/15/2025 10:00 AM | "I don’t think that Liberty needs to increase the rate they charge for electricity. They have changed their billing software and have caused problems for customers that had average bill pay set-up. It recalculated and caused confusion. " |
| P202502280 | 4/15/2025 10:04 AM | "We are a Liberty customer and do not believe they deserve a rate increase of approval based on their inability to manage their billing or service. While I understand the costs have possibly increased but they have poorly managed services and rates are exceedingly high already! A 15% increase is just too much!!!" |
| P202502286 | 4/15/2025 10:49 AM | *See attached for comment |
| P202502293 | 4/15/2025 11:06 AM | See attached for comments |
| P202502294 | 4/15/2025 11:20 AM | "These idiots can't even get their billing right i have gotten atleast 8 duplicate Bills saying my bill is -393.40 then one with zero balance and today i received 4 new bills how in the world can you even consider letting them rip us off more they just wasted a ton of money sending out multiple wrong bills... it's crazy before this i never got my bill until it would have been late if I didn't go online. They didn't deserve the increase for storm damage or the power plant they closed before... don't even let them screw us over more.. 😤 this has happened to numerous people." |
| P202502295 | 4/15/2025 11:23 AM | "I feel that Liberty already charges too much money for their services. Our older citizens have limited income and can not afford these rate increases they propose. During the summer months the older population is hit hard by the summer rates they already charge let alone the choice of medications or food." |
| P202502300 | 4/15/2025 12:00 PM | "This company should be thoroughly investigated. They are ripping people off and getting away with it! There is no way they deserve more money when they are robbing people blind with their outrageous rates as it is. " |
| P202502301 | 4/15/2025 12:01 PM | I don't believe liberty needs a increase. They refuse to service the lines in front of my house which have tree limbs on them... huge issue |
| P202502302 | 4/15/2025 12:02 PM | "No more rate hikes, liberty is the most expensive utility in sw mo." |
| P202502303 | 4/15/2025 12:09 PM | "If Liberty concern about our safety for our kids, they should go out and fix all street lighting, especial all bus stop in our subdivision, I live by Genesis Ln, and none of our street light are working, each morning I walked my kid out to the bus stop with our flash light, let worry less about money, let get the kid a little safer by fix those street lighting" |
| P202502306 | 4/15/2025 1:14 PM | If this rate increase is allowed, my bill would go up approx $49, maybe higher for some lower for others. Seems like ever since Liberty has cobbled up Empire the rates have been going up, some senior citizens, and small business's wiil have a hard time absorbing the rate increases, another example of big business asking for more money to give bonuses/higher salaries for corporate presidents/vp/op managers |
| P202502309 | 4/15/2025 1:28 PM | I oppose Liberty Utilities request for rate increase. I I've seen very questionable billing practices, which leads me to believe that they have other accounting problems how can we base a need for the increase on questionable accounting. |
| P202502315 | 4/15/2025 1:50 PM | I am writing to complain about all the increases that Liberty has put on its customers. How many rate increases are you going to allow them at our cost? They are getting money for storm recovery. How about using fossil fuel instead of those stupid wind turbines and solar panels! We all know that if the government stopped the subsidy they would fall apart. We the customers aren't getting any benefits from either one. ONLY THE ELECTRIC COMPANY! The customer service sucks, the linemen are getting upwards of $60 an hour, the upper crust keep getting raises, and lo and behold our rates keep going up. So many of us are having trouble paying or bills now. (see attached PDF) And another thing y |
| P202502319 | 4/15/2025 2:07 PM | I am opposed to the rate increase that is being sought after from Liberty utilities. Not certain why the increase is being requested but can probably guess, possibly more than one reason too. People can't afford all these increases. |
| P202502324 | 4/15/2025 2:35 PM | IN MY OPINION, LIBERTY UTILITIES DOES NOT DESERVE A RATE INCREASE AT THIS TIME. LIBERTY IS RESPONDING TO CURRENT MARKET LEVLES THAT ARE SEEING A DROP. FOR INSTANCE, CRUDE HAS DROPPED APPROXMATILY $10 PER BARREL, WHICH WILL SHOW RESULTS IN LATER THIS QUARTER. ANOTHER THOUGH IS THAT SOME CONSUMERS HAVE INSTALLED SOLAR, WHICH FOR ALL INTENSE PURPOSES SHOULD REDUCE THE AMOUNT OF ENERGY THAT LIBERTY HAS TO DEVELOPE FOR THE CONSUMER. A RATE INCREASE IS WHAT LIBERTY IS TRYING TO DEVELOPE MORE CASH FLOW SINCE THEY ARE RECEIVING LESS CASH FLOW FROM THEIR BILLING BECAUSE OF SOLAR. (see attached PDF) |
| P202502335 | 4/15/2025 3:52 PM | This is a no for most normal people!!! do not let them raise rates again!!! Liberty is a monalpy on electric if we could chose who to receive our electric from, Liberty would have no customer. I still paying for some storm from back in 2021... why? maybe if they ran there company right they would not need a rate increase. 5bill in one month? all with different amounts? who do they have running things? VOTE NO on Rate increase we cant afford any more!!!!! Susan Unhappy Liberty Customer |
| P202502363 | 4/16/2025 8:57 AM | "Southwest Missouri is a economically poor area of Missouri. Most of the people are at poverty level even those who are employed. Why would the utilities commision want to make it harder for it's customers to pay their electric bills? Liberty needs to stop raising rates to line their pockets with more money. There is no credible reason for them to do this. They said said it was for storm damage. They should of had a fund set back to cover this. The tax payer's should not have to pay for storm damage. : |
| P202502364 | 4/16/2025 9:02 AM | "This is ridiculous. Liberty is outrageous in its charges. We are in our late 70’s and can’t afford their charges. We sweat in the summer and freeze in the winter just trying to keep our charges down. Their bill is still outrageous." |
| P202502375 | 4/16/2025 9:32 AM | "The link mysteriously is inactive for this case so wanted to submit my comment on behalf of our company on this case with Liberty Utilities. Frankly the situation has gotten completely out of hand. Normally this wouldn’t be anything that is even discussed but it has gotten to such a ridiculous level of theft that everyone I know is talking about it."*See attached for full comment. |
| P202502378 | 4/16/2025 9:38 AM | "I am writing to have this rate increase denied! Liberty has had multiple increases over the years, and Empire prior to that. What was Liberty's profit earnings for the last 2 years? what happened to the money from the other rate increases? 29.64% is Ludacris, the average person does not get an almost 30% increase in wages! "*See attached for full comment |
| P202502385 | 4/16/2025 9:51 AM | "These utility companies are gouging the American people. They are trying to get these in place before Trump's policies kick in to help lower things. This needs to be shut down quick till we see what his policies do. I do not agree with the increase. Prices are already skyrocketing." |
| P202502408 | 4/16/2025 11:55 AM | We are retired Baby-Boomers on mostly fixed income. The increases that Liberty Electric are being allowed are RIDICULOUS!!! Our monthly bill still has a charge for destroying the Asbury power plant, that could still be operating. Liberty Electric has more extra charges than the electric costs. |
| P202502416 | 4/16/2025 2:04 PM | Data centers ( ie AI and Crypto mining) have a negative impact on the grid that already affects regular rate payers. They should not be on the grid at all. They can set up a separate dedicated power generation for their operations. Liberty doesn’t need to increase rates. Our 60 year old grid was never designed for data centers. Billions of taxpayers dollars go to utilities that haven’t developed anything better in 60 years than wires on poles that can break at anytime. |
| P202502445 | 4/16/2025 4:48 PM | I am contacting you to tell you that I am very angry and displeased that you signed for Liberty Utilities. I am a widow that can't work on SSDI and get only $1,038 a month and Liberty has socked me with electric bills in the $400-$550. range. (see attached PDF) |
| P202502446 | 4/16/2025 4:51 PM | I’m voicing my opinion about Liberty Utilities proposed rate hike and fuel sire charge hike. I am against any more rate increases for Liberty Utilities. Since taking over Empire District they have been granted constant rate increases. Being a public utility, their rates should be cheaper than city municipalities and cooperatives. They are not. In our area they run close to 35% more. Please do not grant them Another rate hike. |
| P202502506 | 4/18/2025 8:40 AM | I am against Liberty's rate increase. They double bill, their bills are not on time. Its a canadian company and shouldn't even be here. |
| P202502514 | 4/18/2025 9:39 AM | "I would like to voice my opinion on the rate increases proposed by Liberty Utilities. Not only are they asking for the fuel adjustment but they also want a 29% base rate increase. Not to mention the bill that the state legislature passed giving utility companies the right to raise rates for future growth without any limits or checks. Liberty is currently being investigated due to billing issues. They need to clean up their business practices before asking their customers to fund anything else. I can assure you no one in Missouri is getting a 29% pay increase and with the minimum wage increase, the cost of living is going to go up and is actually a pay cut for those of us making more than minimum wage as our wages do not increa*See Attached |
| P202502546 | 4/18/2025 4:11 PM | "We are against Liberty Electric getting the increased KWH increase to .00566. They just proposed an increase on something else and people can't afford them." |
| P202502712 | 4/24/2025 7:43 PM | Not sure what is going on but I'm disabled/retired on fixed income and i have experienced increasing electric bills. OACAC paid my bill full me in full in March I get no bill then mid April I get shut off notice saying I owed over 500 and then a week later I get another saying I owe over 700. Past years March April may bills have always been around 100. They wouldn't budge on what I owed and made me agree to longterm payment plan. I don't see anyway I used over 700 even over 500 so now I'm trapped in a plan for electric that I have trouble paying in the first place. Also a few months ago they hit us with charges liberty and for storm damage when we was under empire back in 2018 or whichever year it was. Liberty wasn't even out provider time |
| P202502764 | 4/28/2025 2:10 PM | "This rate increase request is robbery. They ask as often as allowed for double what they think they can get and end up getting exactly what they want. That is wrong. Something needs to be done about this. People on a fixed income are already hurting financially. As is everyone. " |
| P202502795 | 4/30/2025 5:35 PM | Our bills have not aligned for some time when I called I get an apology but they can't seem to reconcile where the difference came from especially since we are on autopay and why we would have a balance due. I was told we were off a month due to the change in billing software in 2024 and so they would not take a payment in April 2025 but would instead take the balance due in addition to that in May 2025. This does not make sense to us first how we can be a month off being on autpay and then how skipping a month will catch that up? |
| P202502796 | 5/1/2025 8:49 AM | I have received four identical electric bill/statements from Liberty Utilities in the past two months. They all show a zero amount due. They were all postmarked after the due date. Two days ago I received a letter stating that I may have received multiple bills, but the amount in the letter is what I owe. The letter had no details, no usage amounts. I should be provided a bill with the dates of usage, amount of electricity used, and a detailed breakdown of the charges. Please see the attached four statements showing no payment due and the letter stating something different. I think Liberty should be held accountable for the billing statements they send out. A billing statement is a legally binding document. |
| P202502913 | 5/22/2025 3:55 PM | See attached |
| P202502949 | 5/28/2025 8:45 AM | "I've been with Empire/Liberty for 7 years and have always been a good customer. In Oct. and Nov. 2024 I was unable to pay online because their website was down. When I went down to the local office I was told they have no record of me being a customer. I had to provide a lot of documentation to prove my identity to get it all straightened out because of THEIR issues. I should not have had to go through all of that red-tape. They should not get an increase." |
| P202502953 | 5/28/2025 10:25 AM | A long-time customer expressed frustration with the new billing system, stating that the previous system worked fine. She received eight bills in one month, while some bills were delayed for five months. To resolve her payments, she had to stand in line in Joplin for over an hour and a half on three occasions across four months and repeatedly call for billing amounts. After 49 years as a satisfied customer, she is now unhappy due to these issues, including receiving bills just two days before their due dates. |
| P202502962 | 5/29/2025 9:53 AM | We’ve been a Liberty customer for years and the complaints with Liberty is how often and by how much our rates are raised. We as the consumer feel the rates are raised due to there being no competition for us to use someone other than Liberty. Our hands are tied and they know it. I’d feel differently if they can show their rates have increased, by how much and why, and if it’s best for the customers, we may understand. It feels like a constant, ‘if you don’t like it too bad,’ from them. We feel like our rates are raised at a much higher rate than their costs. |
| P202503008 | 5/30/2025 3:47 PM | "I feel like the Company is picking and choosing when to raise prices and the customers get attitude if they ask questions. |
| P202503057 | 6/2/2025 10:27 AM | In general, I am happy with Liberty Electric although for the February billing cycle I did not receive a bill. I called; it was explained to me that my cycle ends on the 29th of each month and since February didn't have a 29th, my usage for February wouldn't be billed until sometime in mid-March, making it due in April. Additionally, my March usage would also be due in April but would be due on two different days. As I had budgeted enough for the un-arrived March bill, it was disconcerting that a huge company can't set up their billing cycles so that this type of snafu can be avoided and make a consistent billing cycle? Last business day of month? The 28th of each month? I have never had this problem with any of my other bills. |
| P202503058 | 6/2/2025 10:32 AM | I live in Buffalo, Missouri. My town is not one of the sites for public discussion for Liberty’s meetings. Liberty has one of the highest kilowatt rates in the state. The average rate is 11.57 and Liberty already charges 14.03. This rate increase is not justified and shows they need to be better stewards of their income. This rate already poses hardships on most of the users. I am a widow living on a fixed income like so many others. I have to make it on my income and don’t get to ask for more money to make my life more comfortable. Please stand up and fight for us. Thank you, Diana Miller |
| P202503072 | 6/2/2025 12:10 PM | As a company that deals with Real estate, being residential, commercial or Farms, we have received many bills that were incorrect, Late, for multiple months, etc. This puts a toll on the company as we are having to spend so much time on the phone to verify what actually needs to be paid. sometimes we get 3-5 bills for the same property all with different information on them, causing confusion. Their billing and customer service has gotten out of hand, and they are extremely rude when you call to verify your bills. |
| P202503096 | 6/2/2025 3:53 PM | I received a letter regarding the Liberty town hall. I just wanted to comment that I haven't had any issues with them. |
| P202503104 | 6/2/2025 4:22 PM | See attached. |
| P202503204 | 6/3/2025 4:16 PM | The customer stated that she calls every month to check her meter reading against their billing and has never had any issues with them. |
| P202503277 | 6/4/2025 | Jessica cannot attend any of the LPH's in this case but wanted to file comments into the case. She is on a fixed income (elderly & disabled). She cannot afford Liberty rates that they currently have. Liberty has some of the highest rates in the state. People are moving away from Liberty due to rates and billing issues with the company. There is no way Liberty should be given any increase in rates with the issues they have had and continue to have with new CIS System. She cannot afford any increase in rates & wants PSC to deny any increase in rates. |
| P202503312 | 6/6/2025 10:30 AM | See attached |
| P202503314 | 6/6/2025 11:07 AM | Liberty took over Bolivar for electric, water & sewer. This affects me when a rental house becomes vacant until I get it rented again. Liberty is impossible to work with. I wanted my account set up to come out of my credit card every month so it would never be late or lost in mail. They had my address but never mailed bills to me, they mailed them to the property address. They never took payment from my credit card. I had to go by their office and pay with cash or check. You get no help on automated because even that is all messed up. I hope to sell every house I own in Bolivar so I never have to hear their name again. This was for gas, water and sewer at 472 E Parkview Street, Bolivar, MO 65613 |
| P202503316 | 6/6/2025 11:17 AM | On 2 occasions over the last 12 months I received no Liberty electric bills for a 3 month period requiring me to reach out to them and request a bill. Online queries provided results showing a balance due of $0.00. When the bills were finally sent they were in excess of $1000.00 each time. No explanation was giving for this other than system errors while moving to a new computer system. |
| P202503321 | 6/6/2025 12:22 PM | They shouldn't get a rate increase. Rates already are way too high. Bill should be around $180, and it's over $300. |
| P202503325 | 6/6/2025 2:55 PM | "My electric bill from May 2024 to May 2025 and it totaled $3644.00 with this increase it will go up to $5320.00- I only get $15,600 per year. That is a disproportionate increase for those of us on a fixed income. I already am very conscientious about my energy usage and my budget. The requested increase is too much, it will cause financial hardship to many. Please be fair. Possibly consider a smaller increase or spread it out over the upcoming years. |
| P202503327 | 6/6/2025 3:18 PM | Attached are my comments for the PSC Review Billing Procedures Investigation File No. OO-2025-0233. |
| P202503382 | 6/10/2025 12:32 PM | 'I am on oxygen and this requested increase will increase by bill by $30-50/month. I don't see why they need that much of an increase when they're making millions in profits. Why do they need an increase of that much?" |
| P202503398 | 6/11/2025 8:03 AM | See attached |
| P202503403 | 6/11/2025 8:29 AM | I am writing to express my deep concern and personal hardship regarding the recent extreme rate increases implemented by Liberty Utilities. I am a 75-year-old Honorably Discharged Decorated Veteran. I am disabled and living on a very fixed income. Due to my medical condition, I am dependent on a high rate of oxygen 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The cost of running the medical equipment required to keep me alive is already burdensome, and these rate increases are making an already dire situation almost impossible to bear. (see attached PDF) |
| P202503416 | 6/11/2025 9:12 AM | Hello, I am writing to say PLEASE STOP RAISING THE PRICES!! LIFE IS SO HARD! AND my husband is disabled and on disability, and we are buying a house, and his income is all we have for right now. And it all goes to the house payment. (see attached PDF) |
| P202503445 | 6/12/2025 3:42 PM | I am writing as the mayor of a small, rural community and as a resident regarding Liberty Utilities' request to raise multiple charges, in addition to a rate increase of 30%-40%. (see attached documents) |
| P202503450 | 6/12/2025 3:54 PM | I would just like to add my voice to the growing number of those deeply concerned with this very large increase. My husband and I own a small business in Joplin and are therefore subject to even higher rates because we are considered a commercial customer. A proposed 30% increase, as well as an increase in the monthly base rate seems extremely excessive. At what point does the consumer have any recourse? (see attached PDF) |
| P202503456 | 6/12/2025 4:36 PM | We are customers of Liberty. We had no issues except rate hikes for the past 33 years. That is until last year. From June through December of 2024, we were not receiving monthly statements. We contacted them on several occasions to be told we had a 0 balance. We knew that was wrong and even though we have solar panels, receive monthly charges. In December we started receiving statements. Each one adding to the next. The amounts we paid each month were not being deducted we had to change the amount owed with explanation to make payments. We feel that a rate increase is unwarranted until all the payments are fixed. Also. We were promised that the wind turbines located a couple miles from us would lower our electricity rates not increase them. |
| P202503460 | 6/13/2025 8:02 AM | The high rates make it hard to pay my bill when I live paycheck to paycheck and am a one income household. |
| P202503461 | 6/13/2025 8:04 AM | I’m not in favor of a rate increase whatsoever! Liberty has made NO concessions to raise the rate they paid me for excess electricity my solar panels produce! One of the main reasons I bought solar panels and are making a monthly payment to pay for them was to keep my electricity bill down. But with Liberty wanting to raise their rates even more, it’s not fair for those who have bought solar panels to help offset the cost of the electricity that we pay Liberty. DO NOT APPROVE THEIR RATE INCREASE!! |
| P202503463 | 6/13/2025 8:23 AM | The bills are ridiculously high and are almost to where you can’t pay them. They continue to to go up no matter what you do. |
| P202503469 | 6/13/2025 9:15 AM | I am unable to attend the In-Person Public Hearing regarding Liberty Utilities Proposed Electric Rate Increase in Joplin, MO, Case ER-2024-0261. I would just like to add my voice to the growing number of those deeply concerned with this very large increase. **See attached for full comments |
| P202503475 | 6/13/2025 12:58 PM | Joe called wanting to file a comment into the rate case. He is opposed to any increase in rates. |
| P202503477 | 6/13/2025 3:01 PM | "They should not get an increase of any kind. There is something wrong with their meters and billing and this is not right. This is causing people not buy groceries or pay their rent." |
| P202503485 | 6/13/2025 8:02 PM | I have paid tens of thousands of dollars to Empire/Liberty over the 15 years that I have lived here. Our electric bill was running over $500/month during the winter. One winter month we were out of town for 2 weeks and had the heat turned off and our bill was still outrageous! I am currently unemployed and desperately looking for work but due to my disability I haven't been successful in obtaining a job as of yet. Many people in Joplin and surrounding areas are barely scraping by including my household. A 30% rate increase is astronomical, unethical and in my opinion price gouging. If this rate increase is approved, my family may have no choice but to move out of the area. The service offered is inferior, not deserving of a 30% increase. |
| P202503488 | 6/10/2025 | The customer called expressing financial concerns, stating that she is on Social Security and cannot afford the charges. |
| P202503493 | 6/16/2025 7:56 AM | The proposed rate increase that Liberty Electric is requesting is completely unwarranted. A 30% increase for people on a fixed income will be hard for these people. I don't know how much income that Liberty made last year but they paid out a good dividend, so they had to be making a profit. I am not opposed to the company making a profit but as a retired person, on a fixed income, I can't just increase my income because I want to. Please reject their request for this rate increase and ask them to cut their expenses if they need more income. Thank you. Cecil Hull Joplin Mo |
| P202503494 | 6/16/2025 7:58 AM | Continuing to raise electric rates as it’s clear they’ve already been raised in the past year will force your population of people to move or become solar as Nixa was known for better, cheaper utility bills. |
| P202503496 | 6/16/2025 9:38 AM | Another rate hike would put my family in even more of a financial struggle. Please don't allow Liberty to increase our rates. |
| P202503511 | 6/17/2025 4:08 PM | 'I didn't receive the town hall notice until after they took place. I feel like Liberty did that on purpose to decrease attendance. I also feel like the implementation of TOU was not done for the benefit of the customers but for a way for the Co. to profit more. Also, I think that the billing has definitely changed for the negative since the implementation of the TOU and new CIS system. |
| P202503513 | 6/17/2025 4:32 PM | This rate increase request is outrageous. We are now paying for February 2021 Storm (4 years later) and Asbury Costs. Plus we will be paying for new construction in progress according to Legislation from Jefferson City. And now Liberty wants us to pay for 8 new projects with a proposed $152 million or almost 30% increase. Maybe it would be better to try for only 4 new projects. *See attached for full comment |
| P202503515 | 6/18/2025 7:39 AM | I am sending this email in lieu of attending any in-person public hearing regarding Liberty Electric Rate Case. My wife and I are retired senior citizens with a limited income and find it most challenging in our present economy to meet all of our financial obligations. We are confident that many others are experiencing the same. We realize that expenses do and will increase for all of us. However, we are appealing to the Commission to please seriously consider a modest percentage increase for our electric kWh usage, as the suggested increase is extreme and will impose a heavier financial burden on many. It was surprising to us to learn that the Commission would even consider requesting the increased cost to be between 29% to almost 39.5%. |
| P202503528 | 6/18/2025 12:36 PM | Seet attached. (Mayor for City of Miller Missouri) |
| P202503530 | 6/18/2025 3:19 PM | I am self employed and sole income for my home with limited income I find it most challenging in the present economy to meet all of the financial obligations. I am confident also that many others are experiencing the same. I realize that expenses do and will increase for all of us. However, I am appealing to the Commission to please seriously consider a modest percentage increase for our electric kWh usage, as the suggested increase is extreme and will impose a heavier financial burden on many. It was surprising to us to learn that the Commission would even consider requesting the increased cost to be between 29% to almost 39.5%. Thank you for your kind consideration in this very important matter that will impact many. |
| P202503547 | 6/20/2025 12:16 PM | The customer contacted us expressing concern that her corrected bill appeared identical to the original, with no disclaimer or indication of an error. She stated she was shocked by the lack of clarification and expressed hope that other customers who may have experienced similar issues received appropriate credits on their subsequent bills. |
| P202503548 | 6/20/2025 12:37 PM | "I don't think they deserve a rate increase if they can't even perform their job correctly. Their job performance has been terrible since the implementation of the CIS." |
| P202503552 | 6/20/2025 2:33 PM | Please advise me how I can comment electronically and express my extreme disgust at the excessive increases being requested on top of their rates that are already at or near the top of all electric rates in Missouri. I cannot believe that the Missouri PSC allowed a foreign (Canadian) company to purchase The Empire District Electric Company, which always had some of the lowest electric rates in Missouri and the entire USA. Foreign entities should not be allowed to own USA infrastructure such as utilities, roads, harbors and land. Liberty borrowed much when interest rates were low and then dramatically increased their investment in the electric system to allow them to get a higher return on investment *See Attached for full comment |
| P202503559 | 6/20/2025 | Customer called expressing serious financial hardship. She is retired and reported that 75% of her pension was lost due to her former employer’s bankruptcy. As a result, she cannot afford the proposed increase and fears she will become homeless. She also shared that she is currently unable to afford basic necessities, including groceries. |
| P202503562 | 6/23/2025 9:48 AM | "I understand there's inflation but this proposed increase is wrong. We are on a fixed income and it's just wrong to increase that much. 38.9% in addition to all of the other charges is just a lot. That is not reasonable. |
| P202503570 | 6/23/2025 2:40 PM | See attached. |
| P202503571 | 6/24/2025 12:36 PM | Debbie does not want Liberty to get a rate increase. She believes that they do not deserve one based on billing & customer service issues with their new CIS system. It has been over 14 months & they are still a horrible company & cannot fix their problems. |
| P202503577 | 6/24/2025 4:36 PM | "They keep raising their rates when they can't even bill correctly. The rates I pay at a residence I am rarely at are high. Our income doesn't increase so where do they expect the money to come from?" |
| P202503591 | 6/25/2025 2:40 PM | Travis opposes any increase in rates. Also opposes Liberty's request to raise the fixed customer charge. He believes this is just another way for Liberty to take more money away from customers and make more than they deserve. Does not want an increase in customer charge |
| P202600004 | 7/2/2025 10:18 AM | See attached. |