With the economy, I’ve had to watch my spending. Why can't KCP&L cut back spending?
We have been managing our operating expenses very closely and will continue to do so. In addition, we’ve stayed on track to achieve the $500 million in operational efficiency savings we promised over 10 years as a result of the Aquila transaction. In fact, on our 2009 earnings call, we projected that we will exceed operational efficiencies by $98 million by 2014. Despite these efforts, the rate increase request is still necessary and was planned as the fourth and final rate increase associated with the Comprehensive Energy Plan. Energy affordability is a top priority for KCP&L. Prior to 2006, KCP&L had not sought a rate increase in 20 years. However, the manner in which the world generates, distributes and uses energy is changing. As it is necessary to meet the demands of these changes, KCP&L will work with regulators to set rates that are reasonable and fair.