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OPALCO Bill Too High? Here's Why...
As a concerned OPALCO member, I am writing to highlight factors contributing to our high electricity rates and to encourage open discussion. These issues affect all members, and constructive dialogue can help ensure the cooperative serves us economically.
1. We pay DOUBLE what our neighbors pay!
2. OPALCO GM (general mgr.) compensation is DOUBLE what neighboring utilities pay.
3. Questionable ventures have increased operating costs and rates.
a) Purchase of ROCK ISLAND COMMUNICATIONS in 2015 caused 9 consecutive years of operating loss and has permanently raised rates.
b) Construction of DECATUR ISLAND MICROGRID increased operating costs and rates and has no payback.
c) BAILER HILL MICROGRID (temporarily paused) will increase operating costs and rates and will not have any payback.
d) TIDAL ENERGY PILOT PROJECT (proposed) will increase operating costs and rates and will not have any payback.
1. RATE COMPARISON
OPALCO's residential rates are significantly higher than neighboring utilities. In 2024, our effective rate is 18.6 cents per kWh, compared to an average of 9.7 cents per kWh for neighboring public utilities.
Here is a comparison of residential rates cents/kWh, including base charges: