“The drivers of our proposed gas rate increase include our investments in our natural gas system by replacing aging materials, installing new inspection and safety equipment and upgrading existing infrastructure to benefit our customers,” it reads. “We are also making investments to enhance our system in light of rising costs that have impacted all industries. This will provide a more secure and reliable energy supply for customers.”

According to the email, the overall impact on customer bills will vary, depending on actual energy used and final rates approved by the Iowa Utilities Board, which will review the request within 10 months and establish final rates that may be different than the ones being proposed. The company is requesting that the rates take effect in October of next year.

Residential gas rates would increase by five percent under Alliant’s proposal, and electric rates would increase by 13.4 percent over a two-year period. The proposed increases for different types of commercial customers are shown in the graphics above.

The rates under review by the Iowa Utilities Board are called base rates and include capital costs, operation and maintenance costs, return on investment and taxes.

As part of the request, the IUB will host a series of customer comment meetings, which are open to the public, at the following times and locations:

• Cedar Rapids: Monday, Nov. 6 at 6:30 p.m. at The Hotel at Kirkwood Center, Main Ballroom, 7725 Kirkwood Blvd. SW.

• Clear Lake: Tuesday, Nov. 7 at 6 p.m. at The Surf Ballroom, 460 North Shore Dr.

• Creston: Wednesday, Nov. 8 6 p.m. at Southwestern Community College, Performing Arts Center, 1501 W Townline St.

Information on the hearings can be found at iub.iowa.gov.