Palmer, AK - Starting October 1, MEA members will see a slight overall increase in rates due to fourth quarter changes to the COPA (Cost of Power Adjustment) rate, subject to RCA review and approval. A typical MEA member consumes approximately 652 kWh per month and can expect to see an overall total increase of about $0.46 on their monthly bill due to the slight increase in the COPA rate.

The COPA component of rates primarily includes fuel and purchased power costs. This quarter will see a projected increase in the fuel component of the COPA rate, which is being partially offset by a projected decrease in the cost of purchased power. Overall, the COPA rate remains less than budgeted projections for the fourth quarter.

For the third quarter in a row, the MEA Board of Directors approved no change to base rates. The base rate component (consisting of the “energy” and “demand” charges) includes the bulk of the other costs necessary to bring power to MEA members’ homes and businesses. MEA’s total charge (including RRC and ERO charges) per kWh is about 20.3 cents (compared to 20.2 cents a year prior).

MEA may file limited base rate increases or decreases on a quarterly basis, provided the adjustments stay within certain financial parameters established by the RCA. All rates are subject to a variety of factors including member electric use, weather, inflation, and other economic factors.

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