The proposed five percent electric rate increase in the 2009-2010 budget was part of several upcoming energy changes that may occur in the Town of Stantonsburg. A letter agreement with Progress Energy was a related topic of discussion. The letter would signify the town’s commitment to the use of a certain amount of renewable resources. This agreement would most likely begin taking place in the town in September. The representative noted that minor changes, like the use of special bulbs to reduce electricity use can have a major impact on the efficiency aspect of the Progress Energy Agreement.

——————————————————

Newton NC

The water and sewer rate increase is included in the city’s budget along with a 3 to 4 percent increase in electrical rates for industrial and residential customers respectively.

That increase, board members said, follows ElectriCities increasing its rate by 5 percent. Those rates will continue increasing each year, according to city officials, through 2012.

The city handles its own electricity, being a member of ElectriCities and runs the service as a business. That includes keeping the balance in the electricity fund up as well.

"It’s unfortunate we have to talk about a 20, 15 or 10 percent increase, but you have to pay for services," said Mayor Robert Mullinax. "We all live in the city and we have to help pay the load."