Q&A: EWEB & Lane Electric Cooperative Exploring a Potential Service Territory Realignment

A: Eugene Water & Electric Board (EWEB) and Lane Electric Cooperative are in the early stages of evaluating the future of electric transmission and distribution service in the McKenzie Valley. One possibility under the study is the potential realignment of some or all of EWEB’s service territory in the area to Lane Electric. This would not include generation assets.

A: This concept has been discussed periodically over the past decade. In 2025, both utilities expressed renewed interest in formally studying the idea due to strategic alignment, customer service opportunities, and operational efficiency.

A: Preliminary indications are yes. While more information is needed, we know:

• Both utilities provide safe and reliable electric service.
• EWEB and Lane Electric rates are very comparable.
• EWEB’s electric system is primarily urban in nature; however, the McKenzie River territory is rural, like most of Lane Electric’s service area.
• Service areas are contiguous. Cooperative personnel both live in both areas and pass through EWEB territory en route to Upper McKenzie Valley.

A: For Eugene residents: Greater focus on urban infrastructure and resiliency, where 97% of EWEB customers live.

For McKenzie Valley residents: Potential benefits of receiving service from a utility focused on rural areas, and the ability to vote for and elect representatives to the cooperative’s board of directors, offering a more direct form of local representation.

A: No. The process is in a preliminary, exploratory phase. A detailed study is underway and will continue through the end of 2025. Any decision would include public input opportunities and require board approval from both utilities.