EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — El Paso Electric held its first public meeting, to inform customers that it wants to raise rates adding about $22 to the average monthly bill.
The utility company aims to collect $93 million by raising rates, a move intended to help cover $1.55 billion in infrastructure upgrades made from 2020 to 2024.
These upgrades include new power generation and transmission projects.
If approved, customers could see their monthly bills rise by approximately $22 starting in early 2026.
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Jennifer Boden, Strategic Director of El Paso Electric Rate Cases, said, “We’re here to provide information to the community. We’ve got several tables set up so that our community can come and ask if our different employees are here.”
During a public meeting hosted by El Paso Electric, residents expressed their concerns.
Carol Cassidy, an El Paso Electric customer said, “That’s disrespectful we’re in crises now nationally…$23 is it’s just an insult,” referring to the proposed average monthly bill increase of $22.39.
Some customers report paying more than $200 a month, while others pay under $100, but frustration is widespread.
“There’s no excuse they have a they they have a great disrespect,” Cassidy added.
Another customer, Barbara Clouser added, “Yeah, of course it’s going to be more money out of my pocket.”
El Paso Electric is holding additional public meetings to gather input on the rate review process.
Here is a full list of the community meetings happening in April:
- Monday, April 7 at 5:00 PM: Don Haskins Recreation Center, 7400 High Ridge Dr.
- Wednesday, April 9 at 5:00 PM: Northeast Regional Command Center, 9600 Dyer St.
- Thursday, April 10 at 5:00 PM: Chamizal Community Center, 2119 Cypress Ave.
- Monday, April 14 at 5:00 PM: Michelle T. Adjemian Recreation Center, 9031 Viscount Blvd.
- Wednesday, April 16 at 5:00 PM: The Beast Urban Park, 13501 Jason Crandall Dr.
- Thursday, April 24 at 5:00 PM: Pavo Real Recreation Center, 9301 Alameda Ave.
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The public meetings follow after the El Paso City Council asked the utility company to host community meetings so people could learn more and ask questions about the proposed rate hike.
El Paso Electric announced in January that it had submitted an application to the Public Utility Commission of Texas, which will ultimately have the final say on the rates.
In February, the City of El Paso intervened, pausing the rate increase for 90 days.
Mayor Renard John emphasized the importance of public engagement.
In a statement shared to KFOX14/CBS4 he said,
Community input is crucial when it comes to decisions that impact residents’ utility costs. The upcoming meetings hosted by El Paso Electric will provide an opportunity for the public to learn more about the proposed rate increase, ask questions, and share their concerns. My hope is that these meeting lead to greater transparency, ensure residents’ voices are heard, and result in a fair outcome for the community. I encourage everyone to attend, stay informed, and actively participate in the conversation. Your input matters.
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