EPUD’S 2026 Budget Process

About EPUD's 2026 Budget

In the 2026 Budget, Emerald looks to continue investing in its electric system to increase reliability—an investment heavily supported by customers according to feedback from our recent customer survey. The budget also seeks to reduce the impact industry challenges have on rates. These challenges include inflation, power cost uncertainty, and most notably, a large rate increase from Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), where Emerald purchases most of its power supply. Despite these challenges, Emerald remains committed to delivering reliable service at an affordable price, and has worked to minimize what is passed through to customers.

On November 18, 2025, Emerald’s Board of Directors approved a 5% retail rate increase to begin in April.

Of the 5% increase, approximately one-third is a direct outcome of the BPA rate increases alone. The remaining rate increase revenue will go to absorb recent cost inflation, fund utility priorities, and maintain compliance with the Board’s financial parameters.

View the 2026 EPUD Budget.

Bill Calculator

Below, we have provided a tool to calculate your usage at the rate that becomes effective in April 2026. The tool calculates both kWh usage at the new residential rate and updated electric service charge, which shows how the rate increase will affect your bill.

Ways to Get Involved

EPUD customer-owners are encouraged to attend the utility's Board meetings and budget meetings, utilize public comment periods during those meetings, or contact the General Manager or a Board member with any feedback. Contact your EPUD Board member.

As an EPUD customer-owner, you are also invited to participate in EPUD’s Citizens Advisory Committees. Please contact your EPUD Board member for more information about serving on a committee.