Effective October 1, Duck River Electric will adjust its residential and non-residential rates for only the third time since 2018. The actual increase will vary based on energy use and account type.

Based on the average residential energy use of 1,365 kilowatt-hours, a typical household can expect its October bill to go up approximately $4.17. For most members, this adjustment will be reflected in small increases in the monthly service charge and the kilowatt charge.

After much discussion and careful consideration, the Duck River Electric Board of Directors approved the 2.5% local rate adjustment to help ensure continued service reliability across the growing Duck River system.

The rate change will support these critical areas to sustain safety and reliability:

• Replacing aging infrastructure to reduce and prevent outages.
• Investing in storm response and recovery improvements.
• Enhancing service reliability and grid modernization.
• Building new distribution substations and infrastructure to serve our growing communities.

“This decision to adjust rates was not made lightly,” said DREMC President and CEO James Wright. “Like many businesses and households, Duck River Electric is facing the realities of rising operating and maintenance costs.”

“We know any increase affects families and businesses,” Wright said. “That’s why we’re being transparent and doing everything we can to manage costs and provide value to our members.”

Growing Communities

Over the past six years, Duck River Electric has experienced substantial growth with 10,000 members and 300 miles of line being added to the system.

“We are proud and excited to welcome this type of growth in the communities we serve,” he said. “DREMC must continue to address and plan ahead for this trend to stay on track for continued improvements and provide the level of service our members depend on and deserve.”

Never for a Profit

Since our cooperative was formed by members of our community in 1936, we have been committed to providing the electricity you need at the cost of doing business, not to make a profit. Our cooperative is proud to be a not-for-profit business, meaning any profits we earn are reinvested back into the system to enhance reliability for the communities we serve.

Duck River Electric understands that expenses are high for everyone, so we strive to find every opportunity to control costs and keep your bill as low as possible. If your electricity bill feels unmanageable, Duck River Electric is here to help, with programs designed to help you save.

Support programs to help you manage energy costs:

• Project HELP: Emergency bill-payment assistance.
• Levelized Billing: Smooth out seasonal bill spikes.
• EnergyRight® programs: Rebates, tips and financing for energy-saving upgrades are available. Visit EnergyRight.com for details.

Committed to You

“Duck River continues to work hard to absorb inflation impacts while maintaining the high service standards our members expect,” said DREMC Board Chairman Anthony Kimbrough. “Rate adjustments are never welcome news, but we are dedicated to doing whatever is necessary to ensure the electric cooperative can continue to meet the growing demands of our members.”

DREMC remains committed to providing safe, reliable, and affordable service — today and for generations to come.