Many of you have read or will read about agreements reached with PacifiCorp regarding KWUA transitioning to tariff based rates. After lengthy negotiations with PacifiCorp, KWUA agreed to a four year mitigated rate schedule.  In agreeing to such transition rates, it was KWUA’s intent to mirror work done in Oregon by Senator Doug Whitsett and others to create a "safety net" for Oregon irrigators.   The transition rates do not affect or prejudice KWUA's right to continue its work at the California PUC and at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to make the best case for lower power rates based on the unique circumstances of the Klamath Project and the considerable benefit the Klamath Project provides to PacifiCorp’s Hydro facilities.

This rate mitigation agreement allows KWUA time to continue making its case in addition to providing a safety net similar to what is in place in Oregon. Without this agreement, Klamath Project Irrigators, unlike their counterparts in Oregon, would be facing increased rates this April as high as 2600% of what they are now paying. KWUA is also pursuing further settlement opportunities and other alternatives to assure affordable power for the future.

In no way has KWUA given up the fight on our power rates or on the legality and rationale of the Klamath River Basin Compact.

Greg Addington
Executive Director
Klamath Water Users Association