In a brief sidebar article, the News & Observer recently informed us:
Progress Energy asked the N.C. Utilities Commission on Friday for permission to raise rates nearly 4 percent for residential customers.
The Raleigh-based power company seeks the increase to cover the rising cost of coal and other fuels, energy-efficiency programs, and solar power and other renewable resources.
Count Daren Bakst among the people who are shocked — shocked! — to learn that state-mandated renewable energy and energy efficiency programs could lead to higher rates for electricity customers. Daren never saw this coming.
