Rates rising for Nashua community power customers

Higher electric bills could soon be in store for some customers in Nashua.The community power program in the city announced that higher rates will go into effect later this summer, surpassing Eversource’s rates for the first time.Nashua customers who get their electricity through the Community Power Coalition will see a rate increase go into effect on Aug. 1. Community power has typically been a more affordable utility option when compared to other providers. It works by having municipalities jointly contract for services. Starting later this summer, customers will pay 38% more for electricity compared to their current rates. >> Download the free WMUR app to get updates on the go: Apple | Google Play <<The higher prices come from a mix of factors including customer supply, availability of fuel and electric supply, as well as weather events, according to the city’s energy manager. “Our rates are increasing in our new rate period from 9.7 cents to 13.41 cents, and it’s a reflection of what the market’s looking like here in New England,” said Nashua energy manager Doria Brown. “We’ve set rates that keep up with the cost of our supply, and we are very, I think, optimistic about the future.”Customers are able to opt in and out of the community power program whenever they want. Brown said the program follows a similar rate schedule as traditional providers, such as Eversource, so customers can shop around.