NDOC Seeks Assistance from NV Energy Over Power Bill

The Nevada Department of Corrections (NDOC) is facing financial challenges in covering its utility bills, prompting the agency to seek assistance from NV Energy to maintain electricity in the state’s prisons.

Kristina Shea, assistant director of NDOC, revealed that the department has experienced significant increases in utility costs. With utility costs surging by approximately 20 percent to 25 percent compared to budgets set two years ago, NDOC finds its allocated funds insufficient to cover expenses.

NDOC budgeted approximately $11.3 million for utility costs for the 2024-2025 biennium. However, the escalating costs have left the agency with shortfalls.

In response to the financial strain, NDOC has engaged with NV Energy to negotiate solutions to the predicament. Shea emphasized that NV Energy has been accommodating, ensuring no late fees and maintaining its power supply as the department addresses the situation.

Shea emphasized that NDOC is actively addressing the shortfall internally and exploring potential transfers between accounts to bridge the gap. She also indicated plans to seek additional funding from the Legislature’s Interim Finance Committee in June.