Residential customers using SmartHub can now access new energy insights designed to provide a clearer picture of how energy is used in their homes. These tools can help customers identify usage trends, monitor changes, and better understand what’s driving their energy use.
New features include:
- Additional energy-use graphs and visualizations
- Notifications about unusual spikes in energy use
- Personalized insights into what may be contributing to higher energy consumption
One of the most useful additions is a mid-cycle bill projection alert. If energy use is running higher than normal, customers can receive an early notification, giving them an opportunity to investigate potential issues before their bill arrives.
SmartHub already allows customers to pay bills, view account information, track usage, and manage account notifications, including email and text alerts, through an online portal or mobile app. The new energy insights build on those existing features by providing even more information about household energy use.
Customers already enrolled in SmartHub automatically have access to these new tools. To learn more or sign up, visit our SmartHub page.
From our July 2026 Coastlines Newsletter
]]>We are proud to be part of the communities we serve and appreciate every opportunity to connect with our customers at local events and activities.
From our July 2026 Coastlines Newsletter
]]>Effective July 1, residential electric rates increased by 3%.
This adjustment helps ensure we can continue providing the safe, reliable service our customers depend on every day. Even after this increase, our residential rates remain among the lowest in Oregon and below national averages.
The chart below shows how Central Lincoln’s residential rates compare with other Oregon electric utilities.
For a complete list of updated rates, visit our Rate Schedules page.
Residential Rate Comparison Data
| Utility | Monthly Cost (1,000 kWh) |
|---|---|
| Portland General Electric | $212.83 |
| Blachly Lane Electric Cooperative | $170.90 |
| Pacific Power | $161.40 |
| Lane Electric Cooperative | $152.40 |
| Douglas Electric Cooperative | $147.99 |
| EWEB | $146.70 |
| Consumers Power Inc. | $142.50 |
| Coos-Curry Electric Cooperative | $140.29 |
| Tillamook PUD | $134.90 |
| Emerald PUD | $129.80 |
| Central Lincoln PUD | $120.10 |
| Columbia River PUD | $111.00 |
| N. Wasco PUD | $90.92 |
| Clatskanie PUD | $87.50 |
From our July 2026 Coastlines Newsletter
]]>Spill refers to water flowing over a dam rather than through turbines that generate electricity. When that water bypasses the turbines, less hydropower is produced.
What does this mean for Central Lincoln customers?
Because Central Lincoln purchases all of its electricity from BPA, changes affecting the federal hydropower system directly influence the cost of the electricity we provide to our customers. Traditionally, this has provided strong value, with the federal hydropower system supporting affordable rates, high reliability, and low carbon impacts.
However, due to the State of Oregon’s action in the lawsuit, public power consumers — including Central Lincoln customers — will not be shielded from the negative financial impacts. Early estimates show the ruling will add approximately $300 million in costs to consumer-owned utilities across the Northwest over the next two and a half years. Central Lincoln’s share is estimated at about $6.5 million.
When less hydropower is available, BPA must purchase replacement power from the market to meet its obligations. Market power is more expensive, often twice the cost of hydropower, and typically comes from sources with a higher carbon footprint.
BPA’s operating revenue comes from the utilities that purchase power from it. As a result, these increased costs will be reflected in the wholesale power rates utilities pay — and because Central Lincoln is a nonprofit, community-owned utility, ultimately in customer electric rates.
These changes are the result of federal court rulings and regional policy decisions that determine how the Columbia River system is operated. Unfortunately, Central Lincoln does not have a role in those decisions. In fact, along with the other 34 community-owned utilities in Oregon, Central Lincoln has consistently supported efforts to encourage productive dialogue with the Governor’s office rather than continued reliance on the current lawsuit process. Despite consistent efforts by public power providers, the state has been unwilling to engage in that discussion or to consider solutions outside of the courtroom.
While Central Lincoln does not believe a lawsuit is the answer, your electric utility remains committed to being good stewards of the environment. For decades, electric utility customers across the Northwest have helped fund efforts to protect and restore salmon and steelhead in the Columbia River Basin.
Today, approximately 25% of BPA’s power costs (about $700 million annually) go toward fish and wildlife programs, including fish passage, habitat restoration, and related efforts. These costs are paid by customers through their electric bills. Central Lincoln customers alone contribute about $12.5 million each year to support these programs, which represents roughly 10% of your power bill.
These investments have contributed to measurable improvements in salmon and steelhead returns over time. In 2024, more than 1.7 million adult salmon and steelhead returned to the Columbia River system — about 370% more than when the first federal dams began operating in 1938.
At the same time, hydropower from the Columbia River system remains a critical source of reliable, carbon-free electricity for the Northwest. It plays a key role in keeping power costs low and maintaining an adequate power supply. As regional forecasts continue to show increased demand for power in Oregon, now is not the time to be eliminating existing clean energy-generating sources.
The recent court order is a preliminary ruling, and additional decisions are expected as the case continues. Future rulings could further increase costs. While it’s never fun to deliver bad news, Central Lincoln is committed to keeping our customers informed and providing transparency about the factors impacting utility rates.
In the coming months, BPA will be working with utilities to determine how to bill the costs associated with the court’s order and how those costs will be passed on to customers. We will continue to communicate updates on timing and impacts as more information becomes available. Central Lincoln will continue operating as efficiently as possible, but these cost increases are driven by the State of Oregon’s lawsuit and are outside of our control.
If you would like to learn more or share your perspective on this issue, please visit the Northwest Public Power Association’s website.
From our June 2026 Coastlines Newsletter
]]>Why This Project Matters
As shared in our September 2025 issue, Central Lincoln’s existing headquarters was built in 1981 and was not designed to withstand earthquakes. Seismic evaluations show it would likely collapse in a major earthquake and could be severely damaged even in a smaller one.
Like local hospitals, schools, and public safety facilities that have been rebuilt to modern seismic standards, Central Lincoln’s headquarters is a critical facility. It houses essential administrative, operations, engineering, and information technology functions that must remain operational — especially during emergencies.
Supporting Local Work and Businesses
In addition to enhancing utility resiliency, this project is also contributing to the coastal economy. To date, site excavation, underground utilities, and concrete foundation work have been done by local contractors. The general contractor, Lease Crutcher Lewis, has crews living locally, dining at local restaurants, and purchasing materials from area suppliers.
What This Means for Rates
This project is being funded through bonds, which allows costs to be spread over a long period of time. Bond payments are part of Central Lincoln’s normal capital budget and are not tied to a separate rate increase for this project.
Looking Ahead
Construction will continue through 2026, with completion expected in early 2027. Central Lincoln will remain fully operational throughout the process.
Like other critical facilities along the coast, this investment is about preparing for the future — so we can continue providing safe, reliable power to our communities, even during major events.
From our June 2026 Coastlines Newsletter
]]>Before you get started, take a moment to look up, look down, and look around. Electricity is a part of everyday life, but it’s easy to forget the risks. A little awareness can go a long way in keeping you, your family, and your property safe.
Look Up: Be aware of overhead power lines
Overhead power lines are easy to overlook, especially when you’re focused on the task at hand. Whether you’re using a ladder, working on your roof, trimming branches, or spending time outside with family, always take note of where power lines are located.
Even everyday activities can create unexpected risks. We recently had an outage in Gardiner caused by a balloon coming into contact with power lines, which is not uncommon in our service areas. Balloons and kites can drift farther than expected and easily reach overhead lines, or even substations, leading to outages and dangerous situations.
Please avoid flying kites or releasing balloons anywhere near power lines or substations. Always assume lines are energized and keep a safe distance.
Look Down: Call before you dig
Before starting any project that involves digging — even something as simple as planting a tree or installing a fence — be sure to call 811. This free service locates underground utilities and helps prevent serious injuries, outages, and costly repairs.
It’s just as important to think ahead when trimming trees.
If you’re planning to trim around your service line (the line that runs from the pole to your home), give us a call first. We can temporarily disconnect or move the line so you can work safely, then reconnect it when you’re finished.
If branches are near or touching overhead power lines, do not attempt to trim them yourself. These lines carry high voltage and should only be handled by trained crews. Contact us, or submit a request through our online form, and we’ll take it from there.
Look Around: Give equipment space to operate safely
Padmount transformers — the green metal boxes you see in neighborhoods — play an important role in delivering power to homes and businesses.
Although padmount transformers are designed to be safe, with a case covering the transformer and conduit around the wires, they are electrical equipment that can carry more than 7,200 volts. Please don’t use them as picnic tables or play structures, and avoid planting fences, plants, or decorative items too close to them.
To ensure safe operation and allow crews quick access when needed, keep at least 10 feet of clearance in front of the transformer, and 3 feet at the rear and sides.
Downed Power Lines: Stay far away
Always assume downed power lines are energized. Electricity can travel through the ground and nearby objects, creating a dangerous situation even if the line isn’t sparking.
Stay far away from the line — and anything in contact with it, including vehicles, fences, or other objects — and call 911 and Central Lincoln right away to report the situation. If a power line falls on your vehicle, remain inside and wait for help unless there is an immediate danger, such as a fire.
If you must exit the vehicle, do not touch the ground and the vehicle at the same time. Jump clear of the vehicle and land with both feet together. Then hop or shuffle (keeping both feet on the ground at the same time) until you’re at least 50 feet away.
Talk with kids about electrical safety
Spring and summer mean more time spent playing outside, and it’s important to help kids understand what to avoid. Climbing trees near power lines, flying kites, or playing on padmount transformers can quickly turn dangerous.
Take a moment to talk with children about staying well away from power lines and electrical equipment. What may look like a place to climb or play is actually part of an active electrical system.
A little awareness makes a big difference
Taking a few extra moments to look up, look down, and look around before starting a project — or heading outside to play — can prevent serious accidents.
If you’re ever unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help.
From our May 2026 Coastlines Newsletter
]]>Each winter, we hear the same questions:
“Why did my bill double when I didn’t do anything different?”
“How can my bill be higher if we weren’t even home and the thermostat was turned down to 60?”
Those reactions are understandable. And in most cases, there is a clear explanation — it’s the weather.
Cold weather changes how your home uses energy
Even when daily habits stay the same, colder weather increases the amount of energy needed to keep a home comfortable.
Heat naturally moves from warm areas to cold ones. When outdoor temperatures drop, heat escapes a home faster. To maintain indoor temperatures, heating systems run longer and more often, even if the thermostat is set lower or no one is home.
Cold weather affects more than just space heating:
- Water heaters work harder because incoming water is colder
- Lights are used more during darker winter days
The colder it is outside — and the longer it stays cold — the more energy is required just to keep up.
Why steady cold adds up
It doesn’t take extreme temperatures to increase energy use.
When colder weather lingers, heating systems don’t get much of a break. Even days that feel “normal for winter” still require consistent heating, and that ongoing demand adds up quietly over time.
That’s why winter bills can rise even when nothing feels dramatically different day to day.
Why lowering the thermostat doesn’t always prevent higher energy use
Setting the thermostat lower when you’re away does help reduce energy use. But when outdoor temperatures drop far below indoor settings, heating systems still have to work to prevent a home from getting too cold.
It may seem counterintuitive, but an empty home can often use more energy for heating than one that’s occupied. Everyday activities like cooking, using appliances, taking hot showers, and being home add small amounts of warmth. When no one is home, the heating system must supply all the heat on its own.
What can help
Cold weather has a strong influence on energy use, and winter bills often increase even when homes are efficient. That said, a few no-cost and low-cost steps can help reduce energy use and improve comfort during colder months:
- Wash clothes in cold water whenever possible
- Open curtains and blinds during the day to let sunlight naturally warm indoor spaces
- Set your water heater to around 120 degrees to reduce energy use and improve safety (helps prevent scalding)
- Close fireplace dampers when fireplaces are not in use
- Change or clean heating system filters regularly
- Seal obvious drafts around doors and windows
Use SmartHub to understand your energy use
One of the best ways to make sense of changes in energy use is through SmartHub, Central Lincoln’s online account management system.
SmartHub allows you to:
- Track daily and monthly energy use
- Compare current usage to previous months or years
- Spot trends tied to colder weather
- See how changes in temperature affect energy use over time
These tools can help take some of the mystery out of winter bills by showing how energy use responds to weather, not just habits.
Winter energy use doesn’t always look the way we expect it to. When temperatures stay low, homes simply require more energy to maintain comfort. Understanding how weather drives energy use — and knowing what can help manage it — can make winter bills easier to interpret and less surprising.
To get started with SmartHub and track your energy use, visit the SmartHub account registration page.
From our March 2026 Coastlines Newsletter
]]>Prepaid
Prepaid is a flexible option that lets you pay for electricity on your own schedule. You add funds to your account as you’re able, and your balance is deducted daily based on your energy use — similar to filling up a gas tank.
Prepaid offers:
- No deposit
- No late, disconnect, or reconnect fees
- No due dates
- Easy tracking through SmartHub (Central Lincoln’s online account management system)
As long as a credit balance is maintained, customers decide when and how much to pay, making Prepaid a simple and flexible budgeting tool.
Budget Billing
Budget Billing allows you to pay a consistent monthly amount based on your average energy use over the previous 12 months. Instead of seeing higher bills in winter and lower bills in spring and summer, costs are spread more evenly across the year.
This option can be helpful if you:
- Prefer consistent monthly payments
- Want to simplify household budgeting
- Are on a fixed or tight income
Eligibility requirements apply, including 12 months of service, a zero balance, and a good payment history. Enrollment is open once a year, from April 1 through June 30. Accounts are reviewed periodically, and the monthly amount may be adjusted if needed.
Choosing What Works for You
Every household is different. Whether you prefer the consistency of Budget Billing or the flexibility of Prepaid, these programs are designed to help customers manage energy costs in a way that fits their needs — year-round.
To learn more about payment programs and to sign up, visit the Payment Programs and Services page.
From our March 2026 Coastlines Newsletter
]]>Know What Type of Generator You’re Using
Generators generally fall into two categories: portable generators and permanently installed (standby) generators.
Permanently installed generators are wired directly into a home’s electrical system by a licensed electrician and use a transfer switch. The transfer switch safely disconnects the home from utility power before the generator turns on, preventing electricity from feeding back onto power lines.
Portable generators are typically fueled by gasoline or propane and are designed to power individual appliances or equipment using extension cords. Portable generators should never be connected to a home’s electrical system, circuit breaker panel, or wall outlet unless a properly installed transfer switch is in place.
Keep Generators Outside and Away from the Home
Generators produce carbon monoxide (CO), an odorless gas that can be deadly within minutes. Always place your generator at least 20 feet away from your home, keeping it away from doors, windows, vents, garages, sheds, and covered patios. Make sure the exhaust is pointed away from any occupied space.
If your home doesn’t have CO alarms, now is a good time to install them. They’re an inexpensive way to add another layer of safety and alert you to a problem before symptoms like dizziness, headache, nausea, or extreme fatigue set in.
Help Protect Our Crews
One of the most dangerous generator mistakes is backfeeding, which occurs when a generator is connected to a home’s electrical system without a transfer switch. Backfeeding sends electricity back onto power lines and creates a life-threatening hazard for lineworkers who may be working nearby.
If you want your generator to power your home’s wiring, a transfer switch installed by a licensed electrician is required. In Central Lincoln’s service area, approved options include meter-mounted transfer switches such as GenerLink. Learn more about GenerLink meter-mounted transfer switches.
Otherwise, plug appliances directly into the generator using heavy-duty outdoor-rated extension cords in good condition. Never plug a generator into a wall outlet.
Operate Generators on Dry, Stable Ground
To avoid electrical shock, always run your generator on a dry surface under an open, canopy-style cover that provides ventilation. Never touch the generator with wet hands, and keep it out of standing water or rain. If the generator gets wet, let it dry out before restarting.
Use Fuel and Cords Safely
Only refuel a generator after it has cooled, as gasoline vapors can ignite if they contact a hot engine. Store fuel in approved containers away from heat sources. Before every use, inspect your cords for damage and avoid overloading the generator by plugging in more than it can safely handle.
Read the Manual Before You Need It
Every generator is a little different, and the owner’s manual is the quickest way to understand your model’s safety features, wattage limits, and proper startup and shutdown procedures. A few minutes of preparation now can make a big difference during the next outage.
Generator Safety: Quick Checklist
- Keep it outside and at least 20 feet from your home
- Never run a generator in a garage or enclosed space
- Use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords
- Never plug a generator into a wall outlet
- Let the generator cool before refueling
- Install and regularly check carbon monoxide alarms
- Only use a transfer switch installed by a licensed electrician
From our February 2026 Coastlines Newsletter
]]>What Your Breakers Do
Circuit breakers protect your home by automatically shutting off power when there’s an overload or a fault on a circuit. Sometimes a breaker trips without a major surge, especially when multiple appliances run on the same circuit. A quick check can often reveal whether the outage is isolated to your home.
How to Reset a Tripped Breaker
- Find your breaker panel. Most panels are located in a garage, utility room, basement, hallway, or near the electric meter.
- Identify the tripped breaker. A tripped breaker is usually slightly out of line with the others or sitting in a middle position rather than fully on.
- Turn the breaker fully OFF. Push the switch all the way to the off position. Breakers won’t reset correctly unless they’re fully switched off first.
- Flip the breaker back to ON. Move the switch firmly back to the on position. You should feel or hear a click as it resets.
- Confirm your power is restored. Check the room or area that was out. If lights or appliances work again, you’ve successfully reset the circuit.
Safety Tips While Checking Breakers
- Make sure your hands are dry, and you’re not standing in water.
- Reset breakers by hand only — never use tools.
- Avoid touching the electric meter; leave that to trained technicians.
When to Give Us a Call
If the breaker won’t stay on, or the power doesn’t return after a reset, the issue may be outside your home. Call us at (877) 265-3211 or report the outage through your SmartHub account.
From our February 2026 Coastlines Newsletter
]]>