NPPD: No electricity rate increase for Nebraska customers in 2016

The Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) said on Friday that electricity customers will not see increased rates in 2016.

The announcement follows approval of the 2016 Retail Rate Schedule by the utility’s board of directors.

NPPD Retail General Manager Tim Arlt attributes the decision to effective cost-cutting measures through efficient use of staff and processes to control costs. 

“NPPD employees are committed to finding and implementing long-term cost-cutting measures, while not impacting service or reliability or jeopardizing safety for customers or themselves,” Arlt said.

NPPD has cut costs through its new mobile app, which allows customers to view and pay bills online, saving on printing and postage costs.

“There are many self-service options available, including paying one’s bill by smartphone and reporting of outages," Arlt said, concerning the app.
 
This is the third year in a row without a rate hike for residential and business electricity customers. NPPD anticipates price variances based on individual usage, but base rates will not be affected.

The utility serves approximately 89,000 customers in 80 communities throughout the state.