Utilities

Essential utilities are available throughout Rutherford County and are competitively priced for small business, and for high-volume commercial and industrial users. In addition, Rutherford County currently has excess capacity in both current water and sewer treatment, with both designed to be expandable to meet the needs of a growing industrial base.

Electricity:

Depending on the location, Duke Energy Corporation, Rutherford Electric Membership Corporation and the Town of Forest City supply electricity to area residents and businesses. All have solid reputations for quality and dependable service. Costs fluctuate with demand and location, however in 2006, industrial customers paid an average of 4 cents to 7 cents/KWH, well below national averages.

Gas:

Public Service of North Carolina (PSNC) provides natural gas to the area at or below the national average cost. Prices for this utility are negotiated with PSNC depending on a variety of factors.

Water & Sewer: 

Water is a plentiful natural resource in the area. With access to the Broad River and several natural and manmade reservoirs, as well as ample storage, the area's water and sewer systems are designed to meet growing demand. Depending on the location, water is provided to businesses and residents from one of three providers: the Broad River Water Authority; the Town of Forest City; or the Town of Lake Lure. Sewer providers include the towns of Forest City, Spindale, Rutherfordton and Lake Lure. Capacities in each area vary and are designed to be expandable.

Telecommunications / Broadband:

Telecommunications services in the area are provided by AT&T, which provides telephone and fiber optic services. Facilities include major digital switching equipment and high-speed digital access. Cellular providers include AT&T, US Cellular and Verizon Wireless.  Additional broadband services are also provided by the Pangaea Fiber Network.

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