At a hearing Thursday, I & M Power customers were given an opportunity to speak out about a a proposed rate increase during a public forum.

The meeting at the Century Center addressed a massive plan announced by the utility company in May that seeks to create a “smarter energy grid” for the state, which would involve an 11 point 7-5 percent rate increase for their customers.

It would tack an additional 75 cents onto a typical customer’s bill.

Additional hearings are planned and a decision is expected by March.