At Howard Electric Cooperative, we work hard to keep rates affordable while ensuring you receive safe, reliable and clean power. Like other electric cooperatives, we face the challenge of balancing rising costs with the need to maintain and improve our system.

During our budgeting process we work closely with Central Electric Power Cooperative (CEPC), our transmission partner, and Associated Electric Cooperative Incorporated (AECI) our generation partner. In 2025, these partners will be increasing their rates due to:

• Regulatory Compliance – Meeting evolving energy regulations.

• Grid Reliability – Maintaining infrastructure for consistent service.

• New Generation Costs – Investing in additional power sources to ensure reliability, especially during extreme weather events.

What This Means for You

Purchased power is our largest expense, making up over 40% of our total costs. To ensure continued reliable service, Howard Electric Cooperative will implement an average 4% rate increase, effective on the May 1, 2025, billing statement (for usage from March 26 – April 25).

We understand that any rate adjustment impacts our members, and we do not take this decision lightly. Your Board of Directors and cooperative employees remain committed to keeping rates as affordable as possible while ensuring the long-term reliability of your electric service.