Westar Energy is proposing raising the rates on residential and small business customers and lowering the rates for large businesses.

Small businesses would pay 6 to 9 percent more under Westar Energy’s latest plan. Big businesses that buy lots of power would pay 6 to 15 percent less.

Westar officials say industrial users and other large-volume customers are now paying more than their share.

The Citizens’ Utility Ratepayer Board is opposing the changes, saying it’s unfair to raise rates on small customers to pay for millions of dollars of cuts for the big users.

Ultimately, the Kansas Corporation Commission will decide whether to grant or modify the company’s proposal. The Westar proposal will have its first public hearing Monday night.

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Associated Press Information from: The Topeka Capital-Journal