The net effect is a three million dollar increase for Westar Energy it had asked for 84 million dollars. After two months of first testimony then deliberation the commission released its order and for customers in the Topeka area it means bills are about to go up.

Washing the car doesn't wipe away the rising costs of utilities for Mike Roecker.

"Seems like they're creeping up," explained Roecker.
He lives in the Topeka area that's bracing for an average $3.00 hike on his monthly electricity bill.

"The $3.00 doesn't seem like a lot but it just keeps getting added on to things. But I'm more concerned with why it's going up."

The KCC allowed the rate increase to offset rising Westar Costs.
Rosemary Foreman explained,
"The increase in the northern region is simply reflective of an increase in their operational costs, maintenance, insurance and retirement plans."

But folks about to feel the effect of the increase are concerned they're picking up the tab for something else.

"My main concern is with the stuff with the Wittig trial," said Roecker.
Any costs with the prior management and trials are not included in this rate case those costs are being paid by the stockholders," said Westar Spokesperson Gina Penzig.

The increase is 81million dollars less than Westar requested. But as part of the increase, customers will also now pay an energy cost adjustment based on energy prices.
"The commission's order is disappointing but we are satisfied that the commission approved such structural changes as the fuel clause," explained Penzig.

For Westar customers already trying to save any hike could hurt. The KCC is ordering an average $3.50 decrease in southern region. The earliest customers will see the rate changes will be February.