Rising Costs of Powering Our Communities: How HPC is Looking Out for You

Our commitment to providing reliable and affordable electricity has never wavered at Hendricks Power. However, like many other industries, we feel the pressure of rising costs of essential materials to maintain and expand our power grid. This graphic illustrates how much the prices of critical components, like poles, transformers, and wire, have increased in recent years. For example, the cost of utility poles has soared by 167%, while transformers are up by nearly 92%. These are the building blocks of our electrical infrastructure—the hidden pieces that keep the lights on for you and your family.

Advocacy for Our Members
Even in the face of these unprecedented challenges, we want to assure you that your cooperative works tirelessly to minimize the impact on your energy bills. We are actively negotiating with suppliers, seeking out cost-effective solutions, and collaborating with other cooperatives to share resources and insights. As a not-for-profit, member-owned cooperative, every decision is guided by what’s best for you. Unlike investor-owned utilities that focus on generating profits for shareholders, our mission is simple: to serve our members with the best service at the lowest possible cost.

How We’re Planning Ahead
We’re also investing in long-term strategies to manage these rising costs, including:
• Proactive Maintenance: Upgrading existing infrastructure to reduce unexpected repairs and extend the life of current equipment. In 2024 alone, Hendricks Power replaced 84 transformers for $420,000 and 750 poles at a cost of $5 million. 
• Smart Investments: Leveraging technology and data to efficiently use resources.
• Advocacy: Joining forces with cooperatives nationwide to advocate for solutions that benefit rural electric systems.

Thank You for Your Trust
We recognize that these challenges may raise concerns, but we are doing everything possible to keep costs low while maintaining the reliable service you depend on. At the end of the day, this is your cooperative, and together, we will navigate these challenges to ensure a brighter future for everyone in our community.