MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin is planning to hold public hearings in Eau Claire and Madison to consider Northern States Power Company’s request to raise electric rates.

The company wants to increase rates by 5.4 percent.

When a utility requests a rate change, the commission conducts an audit of the utility’s expenses and revenues. Public comments will also be considered when the commission makes it decision. The hearing is Nov. 17.

Northern States Power Company is a subsidiary of Minneapolis-based Xcel Energy.

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