Electricity, wastewater rates to increase in Fort Collins

FORT COLLINS — Residential electricity rates in the city of Fort Collins will increase an average 1.9 percent next year due to rising costs, despite an 11.3 percent decline in electricity demand, the city of Fort Collins Utilities said Wednesday.

The rate hikes come from increasing costs of power generation, operations and maintenance and fuel expenses, the utility said.

Commercial electricity rates will see changes in the following classes:

Small commercial, 6.5 percent increase;

Mid-size commercial, 0.2 percent decrease;

Large commercial; 2 percent increase;

Industrial, 1.8 percent increase.

Commercial electricity demand for mid-size, large and industrial customers has decreased an average of less than 1 percent in the first 11 months of the year compared to the same period in 2013.

Utility spokeswoman Lisa Rosintoski explained that the electricity rate hikes stem from a 2.5 percent increase in wholesale purchase power costs from Platte River Power Authority, the not-for-profit utility that provides the city’s power.

Wastewater rates will rise 3 percent for all residential and commercial rate classes. The utility determined the wastewater rate increase based on findings of a 2013 study and to meet long-term improvement needs due to regulatory changes and aging infrastructure.

Water and stormwater rates will not increase next year.

Businesses can learn more about rates and how to manage their accounts by calling 970-212-2900 to talk to a representative. The city also offers free building assessments, which look at energy and water use of facilities. Learn about incentive programs to reduce operating costs and improve the efficiency of buildings at fcgov.com/assessments.

Businesses also can receive rebates and incentives as well as save with a building tune-up, electric and water efficiency programs, integrated design assistance and small-business grants. For more information, visit fcgov.com/business-efficiency.

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