The Iowa Utilities Board has announced its final decision on the Alliant Energy request to increase electric rates for customers in Iowa. The order from the Iowa Utilities Board approves a refund of $7.5 million to Alliant customers who paid interim rates. The monthly customer charge will increase from $11.50 to $13 for residential customers, and from $19 to $20 for the general service customers.

During the proceedings for the increase request, the Iowa Utilities Board received more than 5,600 written public comments in addition to hearing from Iowans during 10 public customer comment meetings held across the service area. Those comments alerted the IUB to concerns with Alliant’s management practices and that it has not “efficiently managed its relationships with customers.” The IUB has told Alliant that it has 90 days to file a comprehensive improvement plan and review its own internal processes, identify opportunities for improvement, and correct deficiencies.