Rate Increase Filed with SCC

Community Electric Cooperative, on June 19, 2012, filed with the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC) for a general increase in its retail rates. The Cooperative’s last general increase in retail rates occurred in 1991. While the total cost per kilowatt-hour for service from the Cooperative has increased over this 21-year period, these increases have been driven primarily by fuel-related wholesale power cost. The Cooperative’s application with the SCC requests an increase of 6% or approximately $1.2 million in overall revenues.

Reliable electric service at a reasonable price is something that Community member/ consumers can count on. Even after taking into account the proposed increase in retail rates, the cost of electric service from the Cooperative will compare quite favorably with other energy sources. For example, the average gallon of gasoline in 1991 cost 81 cents. Today, one can expect to pay approximately $3.25 per gallon. Propane, which is frequently used for home heating, has experienced similar increases. Electric service from Community Electric Cooperative will remain one of the lowest cost among the Virginia electric cooperatives and a bargain for its member/consumers. Members are encouraged to monitor the Cooperative’s website (www.comelec.coop) and the Cooperative’s pages within Cooperative Living magazine for additional details as the Commission considers the Cooperative’s application.