Understanding your electric bill is more than just deciphering a set of numbers and charges — it is a key to managing your energy consumption, saving money and promoting a sustainable future. Understanding your electric bill empowers you to take advantage of Dakota Electric’s energy-saving programs and rebates which allow you to optimize your energy usage. For more information on our programs and rebates, visit www.dakotaelectric.com/member-services/programs-rebates.
1. BILLING SUMMARY
Has your unique account number, the date your bill was prepared and the date your bill is due. It also shows the address of the location where electric service is billed, which can differ from the mailing address.
2. ELECTRIC SERVICE
Includes meter serial number, current and previous meter reading. Usage period shows the meter reading dates and the number of days in the billing cycle. For our residential members, the electricity you use is measured and billed in kilowatt-hours (kWh).
3. CHARGE DESCRIPTION
Fixed charge is for expenses incurred regardless of how much electricity you use, such as monthly costs for metering and billing.
Energy charge is for generating electricity and delivering it to your home. The Resource and Tax Adjustment adjusts electricity prices annually according to changes in wholesale power, property and real estate tax that occurred since we last set our energy rate in a rate case.
4. TAXES & FEES
Franchise fees, if applicable, are based on city ordinances and can vary depending on the city you live in. The fee is required by our franchise agreement with some cities. Dakota County Transit Tax is collected on bills of members from Dakota County and applies to anything subject to general sales tax. State tax rate is determined using the taxes as of January 1, 2019. Any additional taxes on electricity transmission, distribution, or sales that apply to this agreement will be added to the above rate. Property taxes already covered by the RTA are excluded.
5. ENERGY GENERATION & DELIVERY COSTS
This table shows how much of your monthly bill is used for generation, transmission and distribution of your electricity. The chart will vary for different rate classes, and is updated annually.
6. COMPARISON CHART
This chart compares your electricity use for the current month, previous month and same month from the previous year.
