RI Energy Proposes Big Increase For Winter Power Bills

Rhode Island Energy is proposing a winter rate hike that would raise electric customers bills an average of 23 percent, about 31-dollars.

If approved by the state Public Utilities Commission the new rate will go into effect in October.

Despite the proposed increase, Rhode Island Energy noted it's a lower rate than last year.

The state's largest utility company also said winter rates are typically higher than summer rates due to various market conditions.

(Photo by Sean Gallup/Getty Images)