BISMARCK – The North Dakota Public Service Commission announced it will hold two public input sessions on Monday, Oct. 13, to allow Xcel Energy electric customers to view and provide comments in person or by telephone on the company’s request for a rate increase.

During the sessions, officials from Xcel Energy will provide a presentation regarding their proposal and then public comments will be taken. The proposed increase would result in an annual increase in its North Dakota electric service revenue of $44.55 million or 19.34 percent.

The hearings will begin at noon and at 6 p.m. online at https://psc.nd.gov/public/meetings/live.php.

People may listen by telephone at 1-888-585-9008, Room Code 671-872-185.

The PSC will receive comments Oct. 13 at noon and 6 p.m. in person at four locations, including Minot City Hall, City Council Chambers, 10 3rd Ave. SW. All locations will be connected by video and commissioners will hear comments given at each location.

Comments also can be submitted in writing to ndpsc@nd.gov or by mail addressed to: Public Service Commission, 600 E. Boulevard Ave., Dept. 408, Bismarck, ND 58505.

Xcel customers wanting to comment on the phone during the public input sessions should call 1-888-585-9008 with room code 671-872-185 at either noon or 6 p.m. on Oct. 13.

Public input sessions are not considered part of the formal technical hearing, but the PSC Commissioners will be attending and using the information gathered at the sessions to identify areas of concern that may require further investigation during the formal technical hearing.