No rate increase for Big Bend Electric members in 2017

The Board of Trustees for Big Bend Electric Cooperative announced Jan. 26 that for the third consecutive year, there will not be a rate increase for their members.

During a time when many electric utility providers are raising rates, Big Bend Electric is proud that they are able to maintain some of the lowest rates in the nation.

However, with rising costs from their wholesale power supplier Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) it may be difficult to avoid a rate increase in future years.

BBEC reviews rates on an annual basis and determines if adjustments are necessary to cover costs.

“As a nonprofit electric utility, our goal is to set rates as close to our actual cost as possible while maintaining sufficient cash reserves for equipment maintenance, infrastructure improvements, and unforeseen events,” stated Big Bend’s CEO Yvette Armstrong.

After reviewing the proposed budget and electric rates, the board determined that no increase was necessary for 2017.

The cooperative provides electricity to approximately 4,700 members located primarily in Adams and Franklin counties stretching from Ritzville to Pasco.