Wisconsin Investor-Owned Utilities Raise Rates Twice as Fast as Public Utilities Since 2020, Study Finds
Investor-owned electric utilities in Wisconsin have raised rates twice as fast as public utilities since 2020, according to research from Marquette Law School.

Marquette, MI, November 11, 2026 —
Investor-owned electric utilities in Wisconsin have increased their rates at a pace double that of public utilities since 2020, according to recent research conducted by Marquette Law School. This finding highlights a significant divergence in cost escalation between the two primary types of utility providers operating within the state.
The research, which examined rate changes over the period commencing in 2020, indicates that companies structured as investor-owned entities have seen their electricity rates climb at a considerably faster rate compared to their public utility counterparts. The specific percentage increases for both categories of utilities and the names of the individual utilities involved were not detailed in the summary of the research. Similarly, the exact end date or reporting period for the study’s timeframe, beyond “since 2020,” was not provided.
Marquette Law School’s research provides a data-driven perspective on utility rate trends, offering a point of comparison for consumers and policymakers alike. The distinction between investor-owned and public utilities is often rooted in their ownership structure and governance, which can influence operational decisions and, consequently, pricing strategies. Investor-owned utilities are typically for-profit corporations, while public utilities may be municipally owned or operate under different public service frameworks.
Further details regarding the methodology of the Marquette Law School study, the specific factors contributing to the differing rate increases, and any potential implications for consumers were not made available in the provided summary. The research was cited as the source for the disparity in rate hike speed between the two utility models in Wisconsin.
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