Rates

Rates Increase October 1

Initially, the rate increase was to take effect September 1, 2001. However, BPA is now considering an additional rate adjustment. Instead of increasing rates September 1 and then possibly again October 1, we have decided to wait until BPA gives us their final rate for the first six-month period. At this point, we estimate that this will result in an average retail increase of approximately 30% to our customers on October 1.

It's difficult to be pleased with such a large increase, but it is much lower than the 125% increase which would have been necessary if BPA had raised rates to the level they had projected earlier this year. We realize that this may present hardships for many of our customers and our staff is prepared to assist however we can.

Salem Electric offers numerous conservation programs for our residential and commercial customers. Residential customers are encouraged to enroll in our Residential Conservation Incentive Program described below.

During the rate setting process, utilities and industries were asked to submit load reduction plans to BPA to reduce their wholesale increase. We're doing our part too. Over the last few months we've implemented several changes at our office which are projected to reduce our energy usage by about 20%. We've also developed a "Rate Relief" packet for our customers which provides information on the current and future power situation and things you can do to help reduce your energy costs.

September 2001

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