Nobody likes to be the bearer of bad news, but I will get straight to it—there will be a rate increase this year. Starting with April bills, the base electricity rate for residential and small commercial members will go up almost a half-cent, and the monthly customer charge will go up $5.
For most members with average usage, that is an $11-$13 monthly increase. A second adjustment of $5.75 per month on the customer charge is also planned for 2026.
Large commercial and business rates will see increases as well, as we adjust rates to accommodate the last several years of high inflation While I would rather not have any increase at all, I am proud of the Trinity Valley Electric Cooperative team for doing great work to keep costs as low as possible in the face of more than 42 percent inflation since the last rate adjustment in 2008. This puts us in a very competitive position compared to 12-month rate plans in the deregulated market, and well below the average cost of electricity statewide.
Thankfully, the rate of inflation has been slowed in recent months. I hope that this rate adjustment will put us in a great position to maintain stable rates and reliable service that members expect and deserve for years to come.
Our priorities are summed up best in our co-op’s mission statement: At Trinity Valley Electric Cooperative, we are committed to our member-owners to deliver safe and reliable electric power at a competitive price, with a strong emphasis on member service, community and sound business practices.
A recent cost-of-service study gave us a lot of data to make sure that our adjusted rate structure will give every member a fair bill. And, as your nonprofit energy provider, any excess revenue makes its way back to you in the form of capital credits.
I am also very aware that, even though we’ve done our best to keep this increase as small as possible, any increase can be a major hardship for some TVEC members. We are here to help connect you to resources and assistance. Local organizations are available to help in times of need, as well as help with home weatherization projects. You may also find contact information for assistance in your area at tvec.net/bill-payment-assistance.
For more detailed information, please see the article on page 18 of this issue or visit our website at tvec.net/rates.
As we launch into the new year, this will mark the co-op’s 87th year of serving rural Texans with power.
The cooperative business model is built on providing this shared resource in a way that is cost effective, and we will continue to do just that. This year, as always, I am very grateful to be entrusted with keeping the lights on for you and your family.
