How is a rate change decision made?

As a cooperative, we operate differently from investor-owned utilities. We do not have outside investors or large profit reserves. Instead, we collect only what is necessary to maintain and expand our grid for the communities we serve. Most of our employees, and all our board members, are SVEC members themselves. We share your commitment to keeping costs fair and transparent – only increasing rates when necessary.

Before any rate change is considered, an independent financial team conducts a Cost-of-Service Study (COSS) to analyze the cost of providing electricity. Based on these findings, proposed rate structures are developed and presented to the board for review and approval. This process ensures that any changes align with the cooperative principles of reliability, fairness, and financial stability.