Balancing rising costs and affordable rates
In September, Emerald PUD’s 2026 budget proposal was published on the utility’s website, kicking off the 2026 budget process. This followed months of hard work by staff, and has since involved multiple meetings with Emerald’s Board of Directors and Citizens Advisory Committee.
About the 2026 Budget Proposal
In the 2026 Budget Proposal, 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 proposal 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.
Emerald’s 2026 budget proposal assumes a 6% retail rate increase to begin in April.
Of the 6% 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.
Next Steps
Emerald’s Board of Directors will vote on the budget proposal and the rate increase at their November 18 meeting. If approved, the increase will become effective with April billing statements. Get Involved Emerald’s Board meetings and budget meetings are always open to the public, and held at the utility headquarters at 33733 Seavey Loop Road in Eugene. Customers are encouraged to participate by attending in person or virtually, utilizing public comment periods during those meetings, or by contacting the General Manager or a Board member with feedback.