In October, NES rates will increase and programs will be launched to help families pay higher bills

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) – Nashville Electric Service customers will start receiving higher bills in October due to a rate increase.

The utility said the 2.9% increase is due to the Tennessee Valley Authority increasing base rates for the electricity it generates.

NES said the wholesale rate increase would be passed on to customers in addition to the normal rate increase to cover local equipment upgrades. The average NES bill will increase by approximately $3.78 per month.

Jorin Haley said her neighbors in North Nashville are already struggling with the rising cost of living. She started cutting the grass and shopping at the dollar store to save money while looking for a new job.

“A lot of people are doing everything they can to cope, but it’s hard,” Haley said. “A lot of people are struggling to keep up with their house payments.”

Haley said her average electric bill is already around $130 a month.

Several programs are available to help people pay their bills, including the NES Balanced Billing program and the Metro Action Commission assistance program.

MAC leaders said they are seeing many more people asking for help paying their bills if interest rates rise. The utility program began accepting applications for next year on October 1.

READ MORE: The application period for the municipal aid program has begun

Lisa McCrady Beverly said that low-income families spend three times more of their money on energy costs than higher-income families. MAC can provide $600 to $1,000 per year to help offset rising costs.

“You need electricity, you need running water, you need rent and mortgage payments,” McCrady told Beverly. “Sometimes our families struggle with such problems. However, people with higher incomes are able to recover from a flat tire.”

McCrady Beverly said it’s important to go to their new office on Murfreesboro Pike, call the agency or fill out an online application as soon as possible so that the power doesn’t go out in the event of an emergency.

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