In the web of numbers and charges on your monthly electric bill, one that is often overlooked but plays a pivotal role in ensuring the reliability of your electricity, is the facilities charge. This charge is often misunderstood as to what it assists us in providing you each month.

Why are you being charged for facilities? We often hear this question when members spend time going line by line on their bill. This charge is essentially an investment in the equipment that powers our world. From the extensive network of power lines to the strategically placed substations that balance load, these are all critical components that the facilities charge supports.

The facilities charge also covers costs associated with maintenance, such as preventative maintenance, replacement of aged equipment, and tree trimming. Also included in this charge are expenses related to customer service. Again, each of these are important to maintaining reliable electric service.

The infrastructure is complex. It’s expensive to build and maintain. A problem at any step of the process, and your family is in the dark. The innovative technologies we have been investing in create better ways to manage this infrastructure.

That facilities charge is a flat amount based on the type of service we deliver to your home or business. As a co-op member, it represents your share of the cost of keeping that service reliable. Or, as I like to think about it, you’re investing in improved and even more reliable service for your home or business. This charge is also periodically reviewed and can be adjusted. It is important to note that the facilities charge does not cover the kWh per month you use. You will see this charge on a separate line on your bill each month.

At Kankakee Valley REMC, transparency is important to us. Deciphering your electric bill can be challenging, but we want you to see beyond the numbers. The facilities charge is not just an expense. It assures that we are meeting your expectations and investing in the future.

To learn more about the information featured on your bill each month, visit kvremc.com and visit Understanding My Bill, located under My Account.