Coastal Electric Cooperative will implement its first electricity rate increase in more than 10 years beginning May 1, citing rising operational costs and continued growth across its service territory.

The cooperative, which serves members in Bryan, Liberty, Long and McIntosh counties, has maintained stable rates since 2014. Officials say several factors contributed to the rate adjustment, including higher wholesale energy costs, increased expenses for equipment and materials, and infrastructure investments needed to support growth throughout the region.

The cooperative also noted long-term planning for new generation capacity, including Georgia’s electric cooperatives’ shared ownership stake in Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4.

“We understand that many in our community are facing financial pressures,” said Coastal Electric Cooperative CEO Chris Fettes. “No one welcomes rising costs, especially for something as essential as electricity, though we consider it an accomplishment that we’ve been able to hold off raising rates for as long as we have.”

As a not-for-profit electric cooperative, Coastal Electric’s rates are designed to cover the cost of providing electricity rather than generating profit. The rate adjustment was approved by the cooperative’s member-elected board of directors.

Fettes said the changes are intended to ensure the continued delivery of safe and reliable power while maintaining financial stability for the cooperative in the years ahead.

“Our hope is that this rate adjustment will not just set us on a stable path for the short term but will also position our cooperative to recover rising costs and provide reliable service for the next 10 years,” Fettes said. “While none of us can predict the future, we can plan carefully and act responsibly.”

“Our members count on us every day for the energy they need, and we take that responsibility seriously. We are committed to maintaining affordable rates, preparing for rising demand and ensuring that when you flip a switch, the lights come on.”

To learn more, co-op members can find more information at CoastalElectric.Coop/rate-changes-2026.