Haywood EMC Rate Information
Haywood EMC will implement a 9.0% increase in retail electric rates effective October 1, 2026. Members will see this change reflected in their October bills. The exact increase will vary based on each member’s rate plan.
Reasons for the Rate Change
The Cooperative’s Board, management, and staff thoroughly analyze any rate increase before approval. The last increase occurred in April 2018, more than eight years ago. Since then, higher costs from our power supplier have significantly increased expenses, with power supply accounting for about 45% of total costs. An internal merger at our power supplier will also increase the cost of electricity we purchase and deliver to members.
Material and fleet costs have also risen. Outage restoration expenses are generally not reimbursed by outside sources, so members bear these costs. We continue to seek reimbursement for restoration efforts following Hurricane Helene in September 2024, but ongoing outages from increasingly frequent and severe weather in Western North Carolina are driving up expenses.
Fixed expenses, including member services and capital investments in transformers, poles, and wire, have increased since the end of the pandemic in 2021. Higher manufacturing and shipping costs have contributed to these increases. Because these costs occur regardless of electricity usage, Haywood EMC, like other utilities, charges a flat monthly fee to cover them.
Cooperative Difference
Despite rising costs, our Directors, management, and employees remain committed to keeping rates as low as possible. As a not-for-profit cooperative, Haywood EMC raises rates only when necessary to cover costs and maintain reliable service. Any profits are returned to members as capital credits, reflecting each member’s ownership and our non-profit status.
What members can expect
With this rate increase, a typical residential member using 1,000 kilowatt-hours per month will see their monthly bill increase by about $14.64.
How you can save money
We understand these changes will affect your bill. By clicking the button below, you'll find resources to help you save energy and money.
Rates Announcement from our Staff