Here in the Midwest there are numerous multi multi million dollar transmission line projects in the works. Recently, where I&#x27;m located, the utilities have asked to raise the fixed monthly connection fee while reducing the variable consumption rate(s).<p>The claim for the lines is for grid reliability and to transfer solar and wind from the west (Dakotas) to the Midwest and Great Lake States.<p>Those that stand to benefit the most from this are the large consumption users which tend to be large corporations, particularly manufacturing and industry.<p>Those harmed by the change in rates tend to be those on fixed incomes and those who invested in energy efficiency or who are energy conscious and reduce their own use.<p>Folks will argue that the benefit to large consumers is also a benefit to the small users. I find it ironic that those that support the big businesses in this case tend to scream &quot;FREE MARKET! CAPITALISM!&quot;. Well, the free market and capitalism should mean they shouldn&#x27;t get to be &quot;free loaders&quot; on the people. And yes, the products and services the big consumers produce would cost more to consumers. But that&#x27;s how the free market and capitalism works! They should cost more to the people that buy and benefit from those goods instead of having everyone subsidize the the cost of their products.