Rate Increase Effective Nov. 1

Kiamichi Electric Cooperative’s mission is to provide safe, reliable energy at a fair price. Because you are member-owners of this cooperative, your concerns are truly our focus.

We continuously examine ways to operate more efficiently while still providing the friendly, safe, and reliable service you expect and deserve.

As the energy landscape continues to change with the rising cost of goods and services coupled with increased demand for energy due to growth and recent weather, an evaluation of KEC’s current rate structure was needed.

As previous articles and social media posts mentioned, KEC conducted a cost-ofservice study, which indicated a deficiency in the current rates. As a result, the service availability fees will increase effective Nov. 1, 2023. Residential consumers will see a $3 increase, while commercial and industrial consumers will be similarly impacted on a percentage basis. This fee covers electric infrastructure costs, such as poles, equipment, lines, staff, and trucks, independent of any kWh charges.

KEC has never seen increases in the price of supplies and equipment of this magnitude.

The prices for goods and services have increased an average of 20% to 40% and, in some cases, more than doubled. Lead times for delivery have gone from a few weeks to several months to a year or more. Our staff and the Board do not take these increases lightly and continue to look for ways to lessen the impact on our members. KEC will continue to control costs by competitively bidding for materials, equipment, and labor to find the best prices and will continue to be responsible when it comes to system safety and reliability.

Concern for community is one of the seven guiding principles that all co-ops share.

In the same way our wires run through our territory, our concern for community flows through all our decisions – because being a co-op means being a responsible partner and good neighbor. We work to help our communities thrive through initiatives led by our employees and a board composed of neighbors who live right here. Because we’re local, we understand our area’s unique needs and strive to help meet them.

We encourage you to follow us on social media, our website, and KEC’s monthly Light Post publication in the Oklahoma Living magazine for further updates.