Fort Collins electric rates: what a proposed 7% rise means

Fort Collins Utilities has proposed a 7% increase to electric rates in both 2027 and 2028.

Here's whether the increase has been approved, when City Council typically acts, how it could affect a typical electric bill and why Utilities says it is needed.

Has Fort Collins approved the proposed 2027 electric rate increase?

No. As of Oct. 11, 2026, the proposed 2027 and 2028 rate increases had not received a final decision. In a June 10 announcement, Fort Collins Utilities said a final decision would not come until November.

When does Fort Collins typically approve utility rates?

Fort Collins typically has City Council approve rates in November, and new rates go into effect in January.

How much more could a typical Fort Collins electric bill cost each month?

For a residential customer using 620 kilowatt-hours per month, the electric bill would be $96.54 under proposed 2027 rates, compared with $90.22 under 2026 rates. That is an increase of $6.32, or 7.0%.

Why does Fort Collins Utilities say the electric increase is needed?

Fort Collins Utilities says the proposed electric increase is driven by higher distribution operating costs and investment in capital projects. The utility anticipates wholesale electric expenses, the largest expense for Fort Collins Light & Power, to increase in 2027 and 2028. The proposed rate increases are needed for major capital projects and ongoing infrastructure requirements to maintain reliable, high-quality utility services.