Making Electric Bills More Predictable

Seasonal changes can cause electric bills to rise and fall throughout the year. While weather plays a major role in how much energy is used, Central Lincoln offers programs designed to help make bills more manageable and predictable.

Prepaid

Prepaid is a flexible option that lets you pay for electricity on your own schedule. You add funds to your account as you’re able, and your balance is deducted daily based on your energy use — similar to filling up a gas tank.

Prepaid offers:

No deposit
No late, disconnect, or reconnect fees
No due dates
Easy tracking through SmartHub (Central Lincoln’s online account management system)

As long as a credit balance is maintained, customers decide when and how much to pay, making Prepaid a simple and flexible budgeting tool.

Budget Billing

Budget Billing allows you to pay a consistent monthly amount based on your average energy use over the previous 12 months. Instead of seeing higher bills in winter and lower bills in spring and summer, costs are spread more evenly across the year.

This option can be helpful if you:

Prefer consistent monthly payments
Want to simplify household budgeting
Are on a fixed or tight income

Eligibility requirements apply, including 12 months of service, a zero balance, and a good payment history. Enrollment is open once a year, from April 1 through June 30. Accounts are reviewed periodically, and the monthly amount may be adjusted if needed.

Choosing What Works for You

Every household is different. Whether you prefer the consistency of Budget Billing or the flexibility of Prepaid, these programs are designed to help customers manage energy costs in a way that fits their needs — year-round.

To learn more about payment programs and to sign up, visit the Payment Programs and Services page.

From our March 2026 Coastlines Newsletter