Homer Electric Association expects to implement a rate increase beginning Jan. 1, 2014. HEA will submit a filing with the Regulatory Commission of Alaska that increases the Cost of Power Adjustment, or COPA, from 5.07 cents per kilowatt hour to an estimated 6.79 cents per kilowatt hour.

The COPA reflects the cost of the fuel used to generate electricity for HEA members and is adjusted on a quarterly basis. The COPA revision will increase the blended rate (COPA plus energy rate) for HEA members from 18.85 cents to an estimated 20.6 cents per kilowatt hour. The new rate represents an additional $10.84 per month for the average HEA member using 630 kilowatt hours a month.

HEA members who need help with their energy bills can apply for assistance from the State of Alaska’s Heating Assistance Program. The applications are available at http://dhss.alaska.gov/dpa/Pages/hap/default.aspx or by calling 1-800-470-3058 for additional information.