"Time of Use" rates could mean higher electric costs for Missourians

For millions of Missourians, electric costs could be going up.

Two providers, Ameren Missouri and Every,  are now required to use "time of use rates."

That means during a peak use time -- from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the summer --  the cost could rise from 9 cents per kilowatt hour to 38 cents per kilowatt hour.

At other times of day the rates could be discounted.

In view of hot temperatures and heavy use of air conditioners in the summer, many local users have concerns.

What does this mean to electric users in Carthage and Joplin?

Missouri State Rep. Cody Smith (R) of Carthage says he is aware of the situation.

"We're watching it to see how it might affect us in the future but at this time I don't think it does at all," he commented.

Smith says the rates do not affect Liberty Utility or Carthage Water & Electric users.

Senate Majority Leader, Sen. Cindy O'Laughlin has been very involved in these conversations," Smith said.

"She has been talking with Evergy and I think she has been talking with folks at the Missouri Public Service Commission."

"This will be something we will talk about in the legislative session coming up next year," he added.