The new rates reflect our efforts to provide you with dependable electric service, while operating in a fiscally sound and sustainable way.
Like many of our members, UEC has seen costs steadily rise in recent years. Increases to powers costs, insurance premiums, materials, and regulatory compliance needs have resulted in a roughly $8 million revenue gap. To continue providing the consistent, high-quality service you depend on, UEC will be making a rate adjustment, outlined below.
Rate adjustments for each member class will be effective with your October usage and will be reflected on November bills. The basic charge for all members increased, supporting the costs of materials, insurance and equipment necessary to operate the UEC system. This amount is fixed on your monthly statement.
Overall, UEC’s new residential rates remain in the bottom third of residential electricity rates in Oregon, and are nearly half the cost of the national average residential rate, according to U.S. Energy Information Administration. With the new rates in effect, residential members on average will see an increase of about $0.43 per day, or around $12 per month.
The full detailed rate schedules are published on our rates page where you can use our online calculator to estimate the impacts to your bill.
We recognize that any rate change can affect your family’s budget. Our member service and energy efficiency teams are here to help. Please call or visit our Hermiston or Boardman offices if you wish to receive an analysis of your bill and suggestions on how to save energy.
Our staff can discuss no-cost or low-cost measures you can take, or introduce you to our rebate programs and low-interest loans to make energy improvements.
In addition, for those who meet income requirements, UEC offers a payment assistance program, called UCARE. Please contact our member service representatives at (541) 567-6414 for more information on how to access any of these programs.