Dawson Public Power District’s board voted unanimously to sign a new wholesale power contract at its October meeting, the Nebraska public power utility said on Oct. 6.
The 35-year contract delivers reliable and affordable power, supplied by Nebraska Public Power District, Dawson PPD noted. Annually Dawson PPD spends about $36 million on wholesale power.
Dawson PPD also reported that the August financial summary listed revenue at 90% of budget, due to reduced summer power sales.
Bond money, received on September 4, reimbursed the general fund $3.9 million for 2025 work plan expenditures. The remainder of the bond is earmarked for future construction projects, totaling $5.1 million.
The preliminary 2026 budget was reviewed at the meeting. Operating expenses are projected to rise due to increases in wholesale power costs, the cost of materials, technology, and labor.
Four proposed grid upgrade projects were pushed to a future work plan, reducing current costs. The board will continue discussions about funding, including use of rate stabilization funds, potential bonds, and a rate increase.
Residential, small power, commercial and large power rates have been unchanged since 2021.
The final budget will be presented to the board at the November meeting.
Other topics included:
- Reconstruction of a substation near Cozad is ahead of schedule due to the early end of irrigation season. Replacement of the 1950s era equipment will serve growing power needs. The project will be completed prior to the 2026 irrigation season.
- The board reviewed policies with guidance from the finance committee. The financial standard provides five target values and five-year goals. The cash management and rate stabilization policy ensures adequate funding for working capital. The district’s investment policy ensures fiscal responsibility.
- The group discussed Dawson PPD’s Safety Stand Down in September. This was an intentional stop of work and gathering of line workers and technicians to specifically address the importance of safety.
- Director Craig Wietjes of Riverdale gave an update on the recent Midwest Electric Consumers Association board meeting. Midwest is an advocate for federally generated hydropower on the Missouri River, which helps keep costs low during irrigation season.
