Wasco Electric Remains Proactive for You
Several important issues are shaping the cost of electricity and how Wasco Electric Cooperative (WEC) operates its system: Bonneville Power Administration’s rate case, wildfire risk and mitigation, and federal policy discussions in Washington, D.C.
What Is BP-27?
A preliminary injunction issued in February by Judge Michael Simon requires increased spill of water over the Columbia and Snake River dams to support fish passage. This decision directly affects power generation because when more water is spilled, less water flows through turbines to generate electricity, hydropower output is reduced, and BPA must buy replacement power from the open market, often at a higher cost.
To recover increased costs, BPA has started a formal rate case process known as BP-27. Wholesale power is 1 of WEC’s largest expenses. Increased BPA costs flow directly to WEC, which creates upward pressure on retail electric rates.
This is not a typical rate increase driven by local spending or operational changes. It is the result of external legal requirements that change how the federal hydro system operates, which increases the cost of producing and buying power.
WEC is actively advocating for balanced outcomes that recognize environmental goals and the importance of affordable electricity for rural communities.
WEC’s Wildfire Mitigation Strategy
WEC takes a proactive approach to wildfire mitigation and system resiliency through vegetation management and tree removal, targeted undergrounding and system hardening, operational planning for high-risk events, and coordination with local, state, and federal agencies. All focus on reducing ignition risks while maintaining reliability.
Public Safety Power Shutoffs
During extreme weather conditions, WEC may implement a Public Safety Power Shutoff as a last resort to reduce wildfire risk. While we understand PSPS outages can be disruptive, they protect lives, property, and communities. Any decision to implement a PSPS is made carefully, based on real-time conditions and risk assessments.
Defensible Space: Protect Your Home
1 of the most effective ways to reduce wildfire risk is by creating defensible space around your home. This includes removing flammable vegetation and materials near structures to slow the spread of fire.
Federal Engagement: Washington, D.C.
WEC recently participated in meetings in Washington, D.C., to advocate for policies that support electric co-ops and the communities we serve. 1 of the most discussed topics was the Fix Our Forests Act. This legislation aims to streamline forest management and accelerate hazardous fuel reduction. Improved forest management is critical to reducing wildfire risks.
Looking Ahead
The challenges of rising power costs and wildfire risk are not going away. WEC remains focused on managing both responsibly by advocating for members at the state, regional, and federal levels; investing in wildfire mitigation and system reliability; and communicating transparently about cost pressures and operational decisions. We will continue to provide updates as these issues evolve.
General Manager Lindsay Forepaugh