LIGH READING
Understanding your electric bill during warm summer months.
August is typically one of the hottest months of the year, causing air conditioners in our homes to work overtime to maintain comfortable home environments. During extreme heat, many members may notice a jump in their electric bills and may wonder about the factors that contribute to electricity costs.
At Inland Power, we believe that understanding your electric bill is crucial for being an informed member. While the total amount due may appear as a single figure, it actually encompasses multiple costs associated with delivering reliable electricity to your residence or business.
KEY FACTORS INFLUENCING YOUR ELECTRIC BILL:
• Energy Consumption: The primary factor is often the volume of energy you utilize. Electricity is measured in kilowatt-hours
(kWh), and as your household’s energy consumption increases, so does your bill. In the summer, air conditioning typically drives higher energy usage. When temperatures soar into the 90s or above, cooling systems operate longer and more frequently, consuming significantly more electricity compared to milder weather.
Cost of Electricity Generation: Another important consideration is the cost of generating or purchasing electricity. Inland Power acquires most of its power from the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA). The cost to produce electricity can fluctuate based on fuel prices, which include natural gas and other energy resources. Changes in wholesale power costs can affect the price of electricity delivered to members.
• Demand Impact on Costs: Summer temperatures can also affect costs in less obvious ways. When electricity demand is high across a region, wholesale power prices may rise. Utilities and grid operators must ensure sufficient generation capacity to meet peak demand, and these costs can be reflected throughout the electric system.
The good news is that simple measures can significantly reduce energy consumption. Consider the following suggestions:
• Set your thermostat a few degrees higher when you’re away
• Replace dirty HVAC filters
• Utilize ceiling fans Seal air leaks
• Avoid using major appliances during the hottest parts of the day. These actions can help decrease energy
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usage, lower your bill, and reduce pressure on the local grid during peak demand.
Transmission Expenses: Transmission costs also contribute to your bill. Before electricity reaches your home, it travels across a network of high-voltage transmission lines that connect power plants to local distribution systems. This transmission infrastructure requires ongoing maintenance and upgrades to ensure reliability, especially as electricity demand continues to rise.
Local Distribution System Maintenance:
Inland Power is responsible for maintaining the local electric distribution system, which includes utility poles, power lines, transformers, substations, and other essential equipment that safely delivers power to members. The costs
associated with maintaining this infrastructure are also included in your bill through a service availability charge. Operational expenses are necessary to keep the power grid dependable and prepared to serve your home or business. Regardless of whether a member uses a little or a lot of electricity, we must sustain infrastructure and have crews, equipment, and resources ready to provide electricity around the clock.
Inland Power’s mission is to provide safe, reliable, and affordable electricity while being transparent about the factors that influence energy costs. We understand that every dollar counts, and we are dedicated to making wise investments that keep the lights on and support the communities we serve. To learn
more about current projects, please visit inlandpower.com/2026-ipl-projects If you have any questions regarding your electric bill or programs designed to help you save, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can learn more about cost saving rebate programs at inlandpower.com/residential-incentivesrebates. And remember, we are here to assist you in making informed decisions that are beneficial for your household.
Fromawe-inspiring monuments and museums to Arlington National Cemetery and various cultural visits, over 1,800 high school juniors from across the country gathered in Washington D.C. for the 2026 National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s (NRECA) Youth Tour.
Representing Inland Power as part of the Washington delegation were Isaac Wolther from Davenport and Mae Miller from East Valley High School, accompanied by students from Benton Rural Electric Association.
“Youth Tour was an absolute blast! I had the opportunity to meet many interesting and different people from every walk of life. I was able to visit many historical places and learn new things. I truly hope more people take the chance to apply for the Youth Tour. It’s
was especially fun, and I loved hanging out with the Florida delegates who were so different from us, yet so similar. Oh, and the pin trading was a lot of fun too,” Wolther expressed.
Students on the tour gained insights into electric cooperatives, American history, and U.S. government. They participated in educational seminars and engaged with legislative personnel. Their itinerary was filled with activities as they explored historical landmarks in and around Washington, D.C., including Arlington National Cemetery, various monuments, the U.S. Capitol, multiple Smithsonian museums, and many more attractions.
This group of students will also meet virtually throughout 2026 and 2027 and partake in
voter registration drives.
“I am incredibly thankful to Inland Power for the chance to participate in the Youth Tour in Washington, D.C. It was an amazing experience to connect with other students from across the country who share my passion for history. Among my favorite sites we visited were the Washington Monument and the Vietnam Memorial. Experiencing these landmarks in person, after studying them in school, truly brought them to life. Exploring Washington, D.C. with my peers allowed me to build friendships that I know will last a lifetime. The Youth Tour showed me that government is not as distant as it may seem, and it is the people who hold the power for change,” states Miller.
Information and applications for next year’s
