Berwick Electric Commission Operating Budget
Berwick Electric Commission
2025–26 Budget Summary
The Berwick Electric Commission’s 2025–26 Budget focuses on maintaining reliable service while investing in infrastructure renewal and operational efficiency. The approved plan outlines revenues and expenses of $7.37 million, maintaining a balanced financial outlook for the coming year.
Revenue Overview
Total projected revenue for 2025–26 is $7,374,444, a 2 % increase over the 2024–25 budget.
Power Sales – $7,287,574
Power sales remain the Commission’s primary source of income, with modest growth across most customer classes:
- Domestic Sales – $3,198,204
- Small General Customers – $161,439
- General Sales – $886,776
- Industrial Sales – $1,517,515
- Service Charges (all classes) – $1,417,621
- Street Lighting – $71,663
- Yard Lighting – $34,356
Overall, power sales revenue reflects a 3 % increase compared to 2024–25, driven by strong industrial and general sales.
Other Revenue – $86,870
- Connection Fees – $3,500
- Wiring Permits – $16,000
- Miscellaneous Revenue – $19,170
- Late Payment Penalties – $20,000
- Bullfrog Power Revenue – $25,000
- EV Charger Revenue – $1,700
- Return on Investments – $1,500
While “Other Revenue” decreased by 26 %, these figures align with normal post-pandemic activity and fewer one-time recoveries.
Expense Overview
Total expenses for 2025–26 are also budgeted at $7,374,444, representing a 3 % increase over 2024–25. The expense plan emphasizes infrastructure, technology upgrades, and fiscal sustainability.
| Category | 2025–26 Budget | Change | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wages & Benefits | $452,787 | ▼ 27 % | Position adjustments and efficiencies |
| Insurance | $98,540 | ▲ 125 % | Updated coverage for assets and liability |
| Repairs & Maintenance | $96,873 | ▲ 435 % | Investment in system reliability |
| Debenture Principal & Interest | $500,432 | ▲ Significant | Funding long-term capital projects |
| Administration Fees (Town of Berwick) | $275,965 | ▲ 9 % | Updated cost-sharing arrangement |
| Professional & IT Services | $147,456 | ▲ Substantial | Technology modernization and compliance |
| Power Purchases | $5,053,568 | ▼ 4 % | Reflects market and consumption forecasts |
| Depreciation | $738,307 | ▲ 111 % | Reflects capital asset additions |
| Transfer from Depreciation Reserve | ($395,351) | — | Offset to capital depreciation |
| Transfer to Reserve | $0 | ▼ 100 % | No new reserve contributions this year |
Net Position
The 2025–26 budget is balanced, with revenues and expenses both totaling $7.37 million. This marks a shift from the 2024–25 unaudited surplus of $789,319, focusing current revenues on reinvestment in infrastructure and service reliability.
Key Takeaways
- Stable Revenue Base: 3 % growth in power sales.
- Targeted Reinvestment: More funds for maintenance, upgrades, and insurance coverage.
- Debt Management: Increased payments tied to capital renewal projects.
- Community Commitment: Continued dedication to reliable, safe, and affordable power service.