Blachly-Lane Electric Cooperative announced today that it has executed a term sheet with PacifiCorp to take over its electric service in Monroe, Oregon. If approved and executed, this would expand our service area and strengthen our ability to deliver reliable, affordable power.
The proposal will go through a state review to ensure it benefits customers, supports the community, and maintains a strong, dependable electric system for the long term. Today’s announcement is the first step of many, and we will continue to update you at every step of the way.
You can read the full announcement here:
Location of the Expansion
The proposed service area is located along the northern edge of Blachly-Lane’s existing territory. Monroe is geographically connected to areas the cooperative already serves, making it a natural extension of the current service area.
Upcoming Community Meetings
Four informational meetings were conducted in April. We’ll post here when more are scheduled! We are looking forward to meeting with current members and the Monroe community to share updates about this proposal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was announced?
Blachly-Lane Electric Cooperative (Blachly-Lane) announced today that it has executed a term sheet with PacifiCorp to acquire its service area and distribution assets in and around Monroe, Oregon. This is an exciting opportunity to expand service and invest in our community. The proposal still needs approval from state regulators.
What is the acquisition timeline?
The announcement on March 19 is the first step of many towards the finalization and approval of the transaction. We will continue to negotiate the terms of the sale with PacifiCorp, and then present the deal to the Oregon Public Utility Commission. We expect the entire process to take about 12 months.
Will reliability or service be affected?
Safe, reliable service is always our top priority. Any transition would be carefully managed to keep power consistent and dependable for all members.
Are any jobs at risk? Will Blachly-Lane be hiring to support the new territory?
No jobs are at risk due to this transaction. We are in the earliest stages of the proposed sale, and if we determine additional roles are needed, we will keep you informed.
When would any changes happen?
If approved, changes would happen gradually and with careful planning. No sudden changes will be made to your electricity provider, rates or service. Our goal is to make sure service stays safe and reliable throughout the transition. For now, customers should continue working with their current utility as usual.
Will rates change?
There are no immediate changes to rates for current or new members due to the territory acquisition. Any potential changes will be shared publicly and reviewed by the Oregon Public Utilities Commission as part of the approval process. Our focus is on keeping power affordable over time. More information will be shared as the transaction advances in the months ahead.
Is the most recent rate increase due to this acquisition?
No – the deal has not yet been finalized and therefore cannot impact the April 1 rate increase. Rate increases are based on a thorough study of the prior year’s expenses and projected wholesale power costs. Our members count on us every day for the energy they need, and we understand that any rate change matters. We work thoughtfully to manage costs we can control and work with our energy partners to ensure we supply fairly priced electricity to our members.
Will PacifiCorp customers become cooperative members?
If approved, customers transitioning from PacifiCorp to Blachly-Lane would join the cooperative. Members help guide the direction of the cooperative through local leadership, board position voting, and community engagement. To learn more about how we operate and the benefits of membership, visit: Learn more about your cooperative
What are the benefits of this transaction?
This is an opportunity to grow the co-op and expand into a neighboring community we’re already well-connected to. This transaction will improve our efficiency and keep electricity affordable by spreading operations and maintenance costs across a greater number of members.
Where can I get more information?
We will continue to share updates as the process moves forward.
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- Check back here for updates
- Join us at a community meeting – details posted above.
- Email monroe@blec.coop to stay in the loop. Your input will help shape future updates and conversations.