Communities explore options as Community Power Coalition of NH raises rates

Communities across New Hampshire are raising questions about their partnership with the Community Power Coalition of New Hampshire after an increase in costs for ratepayers.Earlier this week, Portsmouth City Councilor Andrew Bagley asked the city manager to look over the contract with the nonprofit organization after learning people were paying higher rates than other utility companies are offering.”Starting this month, roughly 2,500 residents are going to see a 30% increase in their power supply,” Bagley said during a meeting.The Community Power Coalition of New Hampshire was created in 2023 as a way to offer more energy options to customers. Since it was created, it has become the default option in many communities, and it says it has saved ratepayers millions of dollars.>> Download the free WMUR app to get updates on the go <<”This is a marathon, not a sprint,” said Jackson Kaspari, director of member services for the Community Power Coalition of New Hampshire.Its rates are up statewide as the organization says it’s trying to set itself up for a successful future and offer a competitive market.”They reflect the organization’s cost requirements to serve our communities, and they’re going to help position the coalition to continue to realize long-term value, community power and make sure that we’re able to offer more competitive rates in the future,” Kaspari said.Bagley asked the city manager to explore the city’s contract with Community Power and what the process might look like to pull out. Councilor John Tabor said it’s too early for that, and the city needs to go to Community Power with its questions.”I think it’s important to note that, out of the 50 towns and cities, 48 are so far staying with the coalition because, long-term, there are benefits to competition,” Tabor said.Residents can opt in or out of Community Power’s services.Portsmouth plans to host a public session on the issue in April.