Your Tuesday evening update on Salem news
Good evening, Salem.
State regulators today signed off on a Pacific Power request to charge more for electricity. The increase will hit thousands of Oregonians, including many in rural Marion and Polk counties, with higher power bills.
Electricity prices for homes and apartments will rise on average 12.9%, the state Public Utilities Commission said in a statement. That means about $15 more per month on for an average homeowner.
The rate hike is effective Jan. 10.
“The rate increase reflects the reality of high market power prices for utilities and the important actions Pacific Power is taking to reduce wildfire risks on its system,” said Megan Decker, PUC Chair, in the statement. “At the same time, we recognize how difficult it is for families and businesses to adjust to higher bills, and we encourage them to seek out help through energy efficiency programs that reduce usage and rate discount programs to address communities facing high energy burdens.”
Pacific Power’s increase is smaller than Portland General Electric’s 18% rate hike. Both utility giants raised rates far more than Salem Electric, the co-op that powers most of west Salem. You can see our full roundup of local utility price increases here.
Here’s some of today’s news. You can always find our latest reports anytime on our website.
salemreporter.com
The Oregon Department of Justice intends to appeal a federal judge’s order granting the request of a DEA agent to move his criminal case to federal court so he can…
9 Jan 2024
salemreporter.com
The Oregon Department of Justice intends to appeal a federal judge’s order granting the request of a DEA agent to move his criminal case to federal court so he can…
9 Jan 2024
salemreporter.com
In Salem, long stretches of hot weather broke heat records in 2023. It was the hottest May yet for the city, and August tied for first with 2017, according to…
9 Jan 2024
salemreporter.com
In Salem, long stretches of hot weather broke heat records in 2023. It was the hottest May yet for the city, and August tied for first with 2017, according to…
9 Jan 2024
salemreporter.com
The Salem-Keizer School Board meets Tuesday, Jan. 9 and will hear a summary of feedback gathered during fall community forums on budget cuts.
9 Jan 2024
salemreporter.com
The Salem-Keizer School Board meets Tuesday, Jan. 9 and will hear a summary of feedback gathered during fall community forums on budget cuts.
9 Jan 2024
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