Many Communities See High Electric Bills

KINSTON – Electrical customers in North Carolina served by city-owned electric utilities commonly grouped under the association name of ElectriCities have experienced steep increases in their bills in recent months. In Kinston, for example, rates went up three times in 2002 for a total 10 percent increase. Given the financial structure of city-owned power suppliers, relatively high rates are likely to continue for the foreseeable future.