The Kaplan, La., Council recently voted to become a Full Requirements Member of the Louisiana Energy and Power Authority at its February meeting, and the LEPA Board of Directors then approved the agreement at its February 19 meeting.
Kaplan is the 15th municipality to become a Full Requirements Member of LEPA, meaning that LEPA serves as its wholesale electricity provider.
The other 14 Full Requirements members include Abbeville, Erath, Gueydan, Jonesville, Morgan City, Plaquemine, Minden, Natchitoches, New Roads, Rayne, St. Martinville, Welsh, Winnfield and Vidalia.
“I am truly honored to be part of such a respected organization and to work alongside all of you in our shared commitment to providing reliable, affordable electric service to the citizens we proudly serve,” said Kaplan Mayor Mike Kloesel.
LEPA General Manager Kevin Bihm noted, “With the addition of the City of Kaplan, LEPA is now providing wholesale power to fifteen Louisiana municipalities, the most LEPA has served in its history. This is a responsibility we take very seriously, and the addition of Kaplan further meets our mission to provide stable electricity at the lowest possible cost to our member municipalities.”
In January, the Town of Erath, La., signed on as a wholesale electric customer of LEPA, effective June 1, 2026.
The Erath Town Council voted to become a Full Requirements Member of LEPA and the LEPA Board of Directors then approved the agreement at its January meeting.
The agreement was signed by Town officials and LEPA representatives on January 16th, making Erath a Full Requirements Member of LEPA.
Erath has been a long-time Member of LEPA but made the move to a Full Requirements Member because LEPA provides very competitive power rates to its Full Requirements Members, LEPA noted.
“I’m proud to announce our town’s partnership with the Louisiana Energy and Power Authority (LEPA) as our new wholesale power supplier,” said Mayor Taylor Mencacci. “This strategic move is projected to deliver significant savings for our community. LEPA’s municipal-focused model supports Erath’s long-term success, while its invaluable mutual aid has proven essential during hurricanes and everyday emergencies.”
Bihm said, “Not only will this new contract provide Erath with electricity savings, it will also provide additional benefits that come with Erath being an integral part of the LEPA Organization. Erath Mayor Taylor Mencacci sits on the LEPA Board of Directors and provides valuable input to the organization, and his representation on the Board ensures that Erath has a vote and a voice.”
LEPA was created by the State Legislature in 1979 as the joint-action agency for the State of Louisiana.
