PSC Limits How Much Consumers Help We Energies Pay For Closed Coal Plant

State regulators have given preliminary approval to a deal pertaining to the closed We Energies coal-fired power plant in Pleasant Prairie. That action could drive down a proposed utility rate hike . But the Public Service Commission (PSC) of Wisconsin says Thursday’s ruling doesn't lock in how the state will handle additional coal plant shutdowns that are expected in coming decades. The Pleasant Prairie Power Plant was one of Wisconsin's largest when We Energies shut it down 18 months ago because of high operating costs. In a rate case filed this year, the company sought to recoup some of its investment in the plant by charging ratepayers more money. In August, We Energies and groups representing consumers and industries reached an agreement to lower the proposed rate increase and allow We Energies to refinance $100 million of its investment. The company can also keep earning a profit on part of its previous spending on the plant. PSC Commissioner Ellen Nowak praises the deal. "I'm