Spire

Currently, Missouri utilities rely on audited past expenses — called a “test year” — to set rates. Critics say that allowing gas, water and sewer utilities to base rates on upcoming expenses would hurt customers.

After an especially cold month, Kansas City residents can expect energy and gas bills sometimes topping $200. Utilities like Evergy, Spire and Ameren need approval on their rates from regulators in Missouri and Kansas.

Spire's rate increase would come to about 12.7% for western Missouri customers, or about $11 a month. But state regulators and consumer advocates are skeptical the energy company needs to increase rates by so much.