It has been a busy summer with a lot happening here at Niobrara Valley. Our focus this summer has been our new wholesale contract with NPPD, the purchase of a 10MVA transformer for our new substation, and a strategic plan with our board of directors.
We’ve been working with NPPD for nearly two years on a new wholesale contract, and in July their board approved a draft for customers to sign. While not perfect, it offers flexibility for change and in some areas is as good, or better, than our current agreement. Key highlights include: an efficiency standard requiring NPPD to keep rates below the 45th percentile nationally (currently at the 12th). If they exceed this, we have options to exit. It also establishes a customer committee that can meet with NPPD’s board 4–6 times per year, address issues, and even reopen the contract if needed.
These provisions give us a stronger voice and hold NPPD accountable for spending and rates. We plan to sign the contract this September or October, with it taking effect January 1, 2026.
