The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission apologized after racist slurs and other offensive remarks repeatedly interrupted an online public hearing about Puget Sound Energy rates on Oct. 7, disrupting a meeting attended by hundreds of people. The commission said in a statement that a participant’s remarks were racist and highly offensive, and acknowledged that its moderation “missed the mark.” The agency said it intends to do better at future public events. The person joined while other participants were speaking and shouted abuse at them. The hearing came amid mounting concern over household electricity costs. Puget Sound Energy’s electricity prices have risen 45% in two years, and the utility has proposed additional increases that could take effect in early 2027 if approved by the commission. The commission is still accepting public comments on the rate case through Nov. 12. Residents can submit comments online, email comments@utc.wa.gov, call 1-888-333-WUTC (9882), or mail them to the commission in Olympia. Comments should include docket number UE-260005.