Topeka ? An electric utility that serves parts of southeast Kansas has agreed to a rate increase far smaller than it first requested.

The proposed increase for Empire District Electric Co. now awaits approval by the Kansas Corporation Commission.

Kansas officials said Friday that Empire District has agreed to a $2.8 million revenue increase. Average residential customers would see their electric bills rise by $14 to $17 a month.

Empire District had requested a revenue increase of $5.2 million, which would have added about $25 to the average monthly residential bill.

Friday’s agreement involves the utility, the staff of the Kansas Corporation Commission and the state board that represents residential customers and small businesses.

Empire District serves about 10,000 customers in southeast Kansas.