In response to a rate increase from our power provider, the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), the Wasco Electric Cooperative Board approved a rate adjustment during its September 2025 meeting. This adjustment went into effect on March 1, 2026.
This decision ensures that we can continue delivering reliable power while maintaining and investing in the infrastructure necessary to serve our members. Even with this adjustment, Wasco Electric Cooperative continues to provide electricity to residential members at rates below the Oregon average of 14.7¢ per kWh. To sustain a dependable distribution system, our rates must generate sufficient revenue to support ongoing system maintenance and improvements.
The primary impact of this rate adjustment will be reflected in your energy charge. This charge is what you pay for the electricity your service uses during the month, based on kilowatt-hours (kWh). This is a billing component that you can control, by reducing your thermostat temperature, turning off lights in rooms your are not in, or conserving water to help run your pump less.
Below is a breakdown of the new rates, which will take effect with your March billing statement.
March 2026 Rate Increase by Rate Class
| Bill Type | Energy Charge (kWh) | Monthly Delivery Charge | Demand Charge | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Old | New | Old | New | Old | New | |
| Residential | 10.35¢ | 11.25¢ | $51 | $56 | $0 | $0 |
| Low Use | 12.36¢ | 13.26¢ | $51 | $56 | $0 | $0 |
| General Service | 8.63¢ | 9.35¢ | $65.50 | $73 | $10.03 | $12.00 |
| Industrial | 5.95¢ | 6.45¢ | $97.50 | $110 | $10.20 | $11.25 |
| Irrigation | 8.50¢ | 8.73¢ | $0 | $0 | $8.20 | $9.85 |
| Generators | 5.46¢ | 5.46¢ | $200 | $205 | $7.65 | |
| Area Lighting | $19 | $20.75 | ||||
We understand that rate adjustments affect our members, and we remain committed to transparency and responsible financial stewardship. If you have any questions, please contact our office at (541) 296-2740 or email.