State regulators have granted Westar Energy’s request for a $43.6 million rate increase.

The Kansas Corporation Commission on Thursday approved an increase that would raise residential and small-business bills $83.5 million. Rates paid by butter businesses and school district would have rates reduced by $50 million.

The utility sought the rate hike to pay increasing costs of delivering power. State law requires the KCC to approve the annual requests for transmission costs within 30 days of when they are filed, if they are accurate.

The Citizens’ Utility Ratepayer Board says homeowners who use 900 kilowatt hours will pay about $2.59 more a month. The increase will take effect April 2.

Counting Thursday’s increase, Westar’s annual rates have been increased $513.8 million since 2009.

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Associated Press information from: The Wichita Eagle