Matanuska Electric Association, Inc. (MEA) members will see a slight decrease in their electric bills beginning October 1, 2025, as the Cost of Power Adjustment (COPA) rate decreases by approximately 6% compared to the previous quarter.

The base rates remain unchanged as authorized by the MEA Board of Directors. The COPA adjustment—reviewed quarterly by the RCA—primarily reflects the cost of fuel used to generate electricity and power purchased from other utilities.

The 4th quarter COPA decrease is driven largely by lower projected purchased power costs, coupled with adjustments to the balancing account - which is stabilizing after under-and over-collections in previous quarters. These savings are partially offset by an increase in the projected fuel cost component due to:

• Higher cost of natural gas per mcf, effective in April under MEA’s contract with Hilcorp;
• Increased fuel quantities as we head into winter months, and
• An increase in ENSTAR gas transportation rates that took effect in June.

What this means for members:

• A typical member using 642 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per month will see their average monthly bill decrease by about $3.49, or 2.1%, compared to the 3rd quarter.
• The all-in effective rate per kWh will drop from 25.62 cents in Q3 to 25.07 cents in Q4.

MEA evaluates rates each quarter to ensure they accurately reflect current fuel and purchased power costs while following RCA-approved guidelines. While gas cost pressures remain, this quarter’s rate adjustment provides some relief for members heading into the winter season. MEA remains committed to delivering reliable, affordable electricity to its members while navigating the challenges of fluctuating fuel costs, purchased power contracts, and long-term energy planning.

‍