Facility Charge Increase with January Bills
JOEMC members invest in the co-op every time they pay their electric bill. In addition to the amount members pay per kWh based on their electricity usage, the payment covers the monthly facility charge that helps the co-op pay expenses to maintain and expand a reliable, up-to-date power delivery system as well as the great people who keep the electricity flowing. Poles, power lines, substations, transformers, and other equipment must be maintained and upgraded to ensure our power grid and all other equipment operate correctly. In addition, combatting cybersecurity threats, supporting billing and payments, managing right-of-way, maintaining a fleet of vehicles, offering energy-efficiency services, and equipping a staff dedicated to serving you 24 hours a day is essential. Unlike the variable cost members incur each month based on their energy consumption, these fixed costs are the same and remain constant. Utilities typically recover these fixed costs through the facility charge on the electric bill. And, as a not-for-profit electric cooperative, we believe these operational expenses should be spread fairly and equitably across all
members, regardless of the amount of electricity used. Since all members benefit from the same service, every member in their designated rate classification pays the same monthly facility charge. This gives each co-op member an equal share in JOEMC’s operation.
As JOEMC prepared the 2024 budget and examined the rising operational costs we have experienced, it became clear the time had come to adjust our rates to remain financially healthy. After reviewing many options, it was determined that the best way to ensure this financial stability was to increase the facility charge by $10 monthly on each account (see the chart below). This change will start with January’s electric bills.
JOEMC understands that members put a lot of trust in the co-op to be responsible financial stewards of their monthly investment. We keep this trust at the forefront as we direct the daily operations of Jones-Onslow EMC and fulfill the mission of providing safe, reliable, and affordable electricity with exceptional customer service. Please understand we are making this rate change only because it is essential.
Dive deeper into the details by exploring our informative infographic. For a more in-depth understanding, click on the graphic to watch an insightful video explanation about the facility charge.
