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In a decision that is sure to impact residents and businesses across the state, the New Hampshire Public Utility Commission has approved a rate increase for power companies. The decision, which was announced on July 23, 2025, comes after months of hearings and deliberation over the rising costs of maintaining and improving the state's aging electrical grid.The rate increase, which will go into effect on August 1, will see residential customers paying an average of 7% more for their electricity, while commercial and industrial customers will see increases of up to 10%. The PUC cited the need to fund infrastructure upgrades and ensure grid reliability as reasons for the rate hike."This decision was not made lightly," said PUC Chairman John Smith. "We understand the impact that higher utility bills will have on residents and businesses, but we believe that these investments are necessary to ensure a reliable and resilient electrical grid for the future."The rate increase has been met with mixed reactions from stakeholders. While some consumer advocacy groups have expressed concern over the financial burden it will place on low-income households, power companies have welcomed the decision as a necessary step to modernize the state's electrical infrastructure."We have been advocating for these upgrades for years," said Sarah Johnson, CEO of Granite State Power. "This rate increase will allow us to invest in new technologies and infrastructure that will ultimately benefit our customers in the long run."The PUC has also announced plans to review the state's net metering policy, which allows customers to receive credit for excess energy generated by their solar panels or other renewable energy systems. Critics of the current policy argue that it unfairly shifts costs onto non-solar customers, while supporters say it encourages investment in clean energy.As the rate increase goes into effect next month, many New Hampshire residents will be keeping a close eye on their utility bills and the impact it will have on their budgets. The PUC has stated that it will continue to monitor the situation and make adjustments as needed to balance the needs of consumers and power companies alike.