Dear Members,
We want to keep you informed about upcoming changes to your electric bill. A new BPA Spill Surcharge will apply to electricity usage beginning October 1, 2026. We also anticipate an additional rate increase beginning January 1, 2027.
The Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) has implemented a Spill Surcharge on OCEC’s monthly wholesale power bill. This surcharge is the result of a federal court order requiring additional water to be spilled at federal hydroelectric dams. With less water available to generate electricity, BPA needs revenue from the surcharge to recover its costs. BPA will collect approximately $125 million annually from its public power customers. OCEC’s share of this cost is expected to be approximately $165,000 per year.
Beginning with statements issued November 1, 2026, you will see a new line item labeled "BPA Spill Surcharge". The surcharge will be $0.0023 per kWh and will apply to all rate classes. This charge will remain in effect as long as the federal spill requirement is in place.
OCEC is also evaluating a further rate increase, probably between 4% and 6%, effective January 1, 2027. This increase is necessary to recover rising costs due to inflationary impacts on labor, benefits, and the materials and equipment necessary for safe and reliable operations. OCEC strives to keep rates as affordable and as steady as possible and will determine the exact increase before year-end.
We understand that any change to your electric bill is important, and we are committed to keeping you informed.
Please review our Spill Surcharge FAQ sheet HERE.
Thank you for your understanding as we navigate these changes together.
Warm regards,
The OCEC Staff & Board of Directors