Lincoln residents will get a chance to learn more about the proposed 2026 LES budget this Thursday night during a public meeting. The budget includes a three percent system wide rate increase. “This proposed adjustment is largely driven by rising power costs and transmission expenses, factors that are primarily beyond LES’ control,” says Emily Koenig, LES vice president of Financial Services & chief financial officer.
“However, we can control how we manage our internal spending, so we are re-evaluating how we allocate resources within our utility.” To help minimize the impact on customers, Koenig says LES is recommending internal budget reductions, including delaying or scaling back non-essential projects.
She says these cost-saving measures have allowed LES to reduce the proposed rate increase from likely being more than 4%. “As a public power utility, we take our responsibility to our community seriously,” Koenig says. “We’re committed to delivering safe, reliable and sustainable electric service while being mindful of the financial impact on those we serve.”
The public meeting will be held at the Kevin Wailes Operations Center at 9445 Rokeby Road. Koenig says throughout October LES staff will continue meeting with customers and community groups to share information and gather feedback.
The LES Administrative Board is scheduled to vote on the budget at its Oct. 17 meeting. If approved, the proposal will move to the Lincoln City Council for consideration at a public hearing in November.
New rates would take effect Jan. 1, 2026.