Public Service Commission holds hearing on proposed Rocky Mountain Power rate hike in Cedar City

In the heart of Cedar City, a gathering unfolded under the bright lights of the local government building, where voices from the agricultural community rose to address a pressing concern: the proposed rate increase by Rocky Mountain Power. The Second Public Witness Hearing, held on January 28, 2025, drew a diverse group of stakeholders, including farmers, ranchers, and representatives from public utilities, all eager to share their perspectives on the potential impact of rising energy costs.

As the meeting commenced, the atmosphere was charged with urgency. Stuart Bowler, vice president of the Utah Association of Conservation Districts, was among the first to speak. He articulated the fears of agricultural producers, emphasizing that the proposed rate hike could severely affect their operations. "This rate increase is significant and it's going to make an impact," Bowler warned, highlighting the delicate balance farmers must maintain between sustainability and economic viability. He urged the commission to consider the broader implications of such a decision, particularly for those already struggling to make ends meet.

Scott Stubbs, representing the Iron County Farm Bureau, echoed Bowler's sentiments. "We keep being asked to tighten our belts, and I think we've run out of holes," he lamented, stressing that many farmers are unable to pass on increased costs to consumers due to low commodity prices. Stubbs represented a collective voice of over 600 farmers in the region, all facing similar challenges in an already strained agricultural economy.

David Burton, a farmer from the Permamon Valley, added to the chorus of concern, sharing his personal experiences with skyrocketing energy bills. He described the innovative measures farmers are taking to adapt, such as investing in energy-efficient technologies, but cautioned that these efforts may not be enough to offset the financial burden of a rate increase. "This is the point. It could make or break the guys to go out of business," he warned, emphasizing the critical role that small producers play in the local economy.

Throughout the hearing, the representatives from Rocky Mountain Power listened intently, acknowledging the concerns raised. The dialogue highlighted the need for collaboration between utility providers and agricultural stakeholders to explore innovative solutions that could alleviate the financial strain on farmers while ensuring reliable energy service.

As the meeting drew to a close, the message was clear: the proposed rate increase is not just a number on a spreadsheet; it represents real challenges for those who feed the community. The voices of Cedar City’s farmers and ranchers serve as a reminder of the interconnectedness of energy policy and agricultural sustainability, urging decision-makers to tread carefully as they navigate the complexities of energy costs and their far-reaching effects on rural livelihoods.