Over the past several years, inflation has significantly impacted nearly every sector of the economy. Since 2020, inflation has risen by over 21%, increasing the cost of nearly everything it takes to build and maintain an electric system. We did some cost comparisons to our material cost from 2020 to 2024.

As you can see from the graphics, the cost of every piece of material used to build and maintain our distribution system has gone up over the last four years, not to mention increased cost for trucks, fuel, and labor all adding to the extra expense for FCREMC. The materials and services we rely on to deliver power to your home have become more expensive. These cost increases are largely out of our control, but they directly affect our ability to maintain and improve the infrastructure that keeps your lights on.

In addition to inflation, FCREMC has been making proactive investments in our distribution system to improve reliability. This includes replacing aging poles and wires, upgrading underground infrastructure, and expanding capacity to meet growing demand in our community. These improvements are essential to ensure fewer outages, faster restoration times, and better long-term performance of our electric grid.

For residential members, the upcoming rate change will result in an average increase of about $13.00 per month, phased in over the next two years. This represents a 6% increase, spread gradually to help minimize the impact on household budgets.

Even with this adjustment, FCREMC’s rates remain below the state average. According to recent data, the average electric rate in Indiana is $0.146 per kWh, while FCREMC’s updated residential rate will increase to $0.12 per kWh — maintaining our position as one of the more affordable power providers in the region.

We understand that any rate increase can raise concerns. That’s why we’re committed to being transparent about where your money goes: back into the system and back into the community.

As your local electric cooperative, FCREMC does not generate profits for shareholders. Instead, any revenue collected beyond operating expenses is reinvested into improving your service or returned to you in the form of capital credits.

The decision to adjust rates is based on a thorough financial review, including a cost-of-service study, which evaluates the cooperative’s expenses and helps ensure that all members are being charged fairly and equitably for the electricity they use.

This rate adjustment is critical to maintaining the financial health of FCREMC, allowing us to meet future challenges, continue to modernize our electric grid, and provide the level of service our members expect and deserve.

We know that rising costs are affecting everyone, and we remain sensitive to the financial pressures many households are facing. FCREMC offers energy efficiency tips, budget billing options, and member support resources to help you manage your monthly energy expenses.

If you have questions about the rate adjustment or want to learn more about how we’re investing in your electric service, please don’t hesitate to contact our office.

Thank you for being a valued member of Fulton County REMC. Together, we’re building a stronger, more reliable energy future — one that benefits us all.