Readlyn City News and Events

As previously shared and recommended, the Readlyn city officials have approved an energy cost adjustment of $0.02367 per kWh, a $0.01006 per kWh increase from the previous energy cost adjustment, at the 1/12/2026 regular city council meeting. This increase went in effect on 1/13/26, which means you will see this increase on the utility bill that you will receive at the end of February (which is due on March 15, 2026). See below for more information.

• Posted 1/14/2026

CITY OF READLYN

307 MAIN STREET, P.O. BOX 70

READLYN, IA 50668-0070

PHONE 319-279-3411   FAX 319-279-3177

cityhallreadlyn@rtc279.com  Readlyn.com

ENERGY COST ADJUSTMENT INCREASE FOR 2026

The Readlyn city officials have been notified of a significant increase in the cost of energy/power beginning January 1, 2026, of approximately 9.54% or $0.01006 per kilowatt-hour (kWh). There is most likely another increase projected in 2027.

• What does this mean to you?

On January 1, 2026, or shortly after, all Readlyn electric utility customers will see an Energy Cost Adjustment (ECA) increase of approximately 9.54% or $0.01006 per kWh. You may see this increase starting on your February 2026 utility bill. We are anticipating another increase will take place at the beginning of 2027, also.

EXAMPLES: If a customer has a monthly electric usage of 625 kWh, their current charge would be approximately $88.16 for electric usage. With the proposed increase, the new approximate cost would be $94.44, a difference of $6.28.

If a customer has a monthly electric usage of 1495 kWh, their current charge would be approximately $199.18 for electric usage. With the proposed increase, the new approximate cost would be $214.22, a difference of $15.04.

Usage                   Current Cost*                    Future Cost*                      Difference*

625 kWh              $88.16                                 $94.44                                 $6.28

1495 kWh           $199.18                              $214.22                              $15.04

*Approximate costs

• Why are electric rates or the ECA increasing?

Butler County REC, the city of Readlyn’s energy provider, is also receiving this significant increase in the cost of wholesale power from Basin Electric Power Cooperative (Bismarck, North Dakota) and Corn Belt Power Cooperative (Humboldt, Iowa). This charge is a pass-through amount which means the city of Readlyn nor Butler County REC will receive extra revenue from this increase.

• Why is the cost of wholesale power increasing?

There are several factors that resulted in the increase, including federal policies, rising demand and reliability strains, regulation and compliance costs, transmission and infrastructure challenges, aging assets and maintenance needs, and labor and supply chain costs.

• How can I try and reduce my energy usage?

We recommend doing a walk-through of your property and look for everything that is drawing energy. Pay close attention to appliances and items that are plugged in that are not being used. Dehumidifiers and space heaters can use a lot of electricity if left on for extended periods of time. Small appliances, like slow cookers, toaster ovens and air fryers use less energy than your oven – just remember to unplug them when not in use. Even when turned off, many electronics still consume power. Unplug chargers and other electronic gadgets when not in use. Consider a smart thermostat to automatically adjust heating and cooling temperature settings in your home. If you do not have a smart thermostat, you can save energy by setting your thermostat a few degrees lower and grabbing a cozy blanket or adding an extra layer of clothing. Don’t forget to check your garage or shed and make sure there are not items plugged in or using energy that you may not be aware of. These are just a few ideas that could save you some money.

• Have additional questions?

Please feel free to reach out to your City Council, Mayor or City Hall staff (City Hall is open Monday-Friday, 8AM-4PM)

The City of Readlyn