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Bills and Rates

IID Board Approves Rate Update to Strengthen Reliability and Infrastructure Investments

The Imperial Irrigation District Board of Directors on Jan. 21 approved a power rate update designed to enhance service reliability and support long-overdue infrastructure improvements, all while ensuring that IID’s rates remain among the lowest in California.

The Board also unanimously approved the deployment of $10 million in ratepayer assistance and energy efficiency funding to lower customer bills.

This marks IID’s first rate adjustment since 2015 and comes in response to rising costs associated with maintaining and modernizing the district’s electric system, it said.

The update will help address increasing expenses related to infrastructure upgrades, fuel and power procurement, material and labor costs, and compliance with California’s renewable energy mandates.

“Today’s decision is a critical step in securing a stronger and more resilient future for IID and the communities we serve,” said IID Board Chairwoman Gina Dockstader. “This rate update enables us to make much-needed investments in our infrastructure to continue delivering reliable and affordable power while meeting evolving state and federal requirements.”

Recognizing the impact of rate changes on customers, the Board remains committed to supporting ratepayers through direct assistance and energy efficiency initiatives.

As part of this commitment, the Board also unanimously approved Resolution No. 4-2025, allocating $10 million from IID’s Public Benefits Fund to support customers:

  • $5 million dedicated to bill payment assistance programs, offering direct relief to those in need.
  • $5 million invested in energy efficiency programs to help customers reduce energy consumption and lower their utility costs.

The rate update follows an extensive analysis, including a comprehensive retail electric cost-of-service study conducted by independent experts. To ensure transparency and customer engagement, IID actively sought public input through community meetings, customer newsletters, its website, and social media channels.

“We greatly appreciate the valuable feedback from our community throughout this process,” said IID General Manager Jamie Asbury. “As we move forward with implementation, we remain committed to ongoing dialogue and ensuring that customers understand the benefits of these critical infrastructure investments.”

Benefits of the Rate Update

The revenues generated by the proposed rate update will help IID:

  • Invest in capital improvements to modernize an aging fleet
  • Support optimal asset management
  • Maintain financial stability
  • Cover the rising costs of providing reliable electric service
  • Comply with state and regulatory mandates
  • Meet environmental goals, including greenhouse gas reductions and renewable portfolio standards
  • Support the growth of the regional economy
  • Facilitate renewable energy development and transmission from the Imperial Valley to the broader California region
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