EUGENE, Ore. – The Eugene Water & Electric Board (EWEB) is warning of possible rate increases and reliability concerns after a federal court order impacting the Columbia and Snake River dams.
According to EWEB, the ruling, which took effect on March 1, requires increased water spill, reducing electricity generation. This shift could add roughly $100 million in annual costs to the federal system, affecting utilities like EWEB and their customers.
EWEB General Manager Frank Lawson, along with other Oregon utility leaders, has called on Gov. Kotek to reconsider the state’s litigation position, pointing out that it conflicts with efforts to keep energy affordable and reliable.
“Decisions of this magnitude, which directly impact energy reliability and costs, should not be made without meaningful input from the families and communities who will bear the consequences,” according to a letter by the coalition of utility providers.
The decision adds pressure to the Pacific Northwest’s power grid, which is already dealing with rising demand and limited supply. EWEB is considering backup power solutions, including a study with the University of Oregon to assess the use of its combined heat and power generator.
EWEB says it will continue to keep customers informed while navigating these changes and advocating on their behalf in regional and federal discussions.
“We will not wait until decisions are finalized to keep our community informed,” Lawson said.
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