OTEC collects its revenues for electric energy delivered to members in two forms: the energy charge and the basic delivery charge. The energy charge fluctuates based upon the amount of kilowatt hours (kWh) used. The monthly delivery charge is based on how many days the member is connected to the system for the billing period. OTEC is required to maintain power lines, bill and collect for services, pay for operating costs, and make energy available no matter how much or how little they use. This is similar to a fixed cost in another business – such as rent, mortgage or a car payment. It is this component of our cost that is being partially recovered by the delivery charge. A small portion of the cost is included in the energy component of our current rates.