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Fayette
Electric Warns of Rising Electric Rates Fayette Electric Cooperative (FEC) announced that its members can expect higher prices for electricity in the coming year. In response to an expected fuel rate increase from the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA), FEC officials are making their members aware that they can expect to see this increase in the Power Cost Pass Through charge on their monthly utility bill beginning as early as September 1. The Power Cost Pass Through charge reflects the cost of purchased power from the LCRA. This charge is “passed through” without markup. In June the LCRA will ask its Board of Directors to raise its electric rates to keep up with rapidly rising natural gas costs. “Natural gas prices have increased by more than 35 percent since last fall,” said Gary Don Nietsche, general manager. “Everyone is feeling it, from the gas pump to the electric meter. Since we are cost-based, additional increases in fuel rates from the LCRA, the co-op’s wholesale power provider, are passed through to our members.” FEC expects rate increases for residential members will be approximately 9.18 percent, or an average of $10.00 per household based on 1000 kWh usage. Individual households will differ according to their energy consumption. “We wanted to let our members know as soon as possible that this is coming,” said Nietsche. “Not only are we expecting a hot summer, but the natural gas market is forecasted to remain high throughout the next 12 months.” As the region prepares for the hottest months of the year, the staff at FEC will work with its members as they try to keep electricity costs down through energy conservation. Click here for the Energy Savers website. Members wanting to make a bigger difference are encouraged to speak up on this issue – contact your elected officials. The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) began the “Our Energy, Our Future” campaign in February, 2008 to encourage electric cooperative members to speak up on the energy issues that America is facing. FEC members can log on to www.ourenergy.coop and submit their concerns about rising energy costs.
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