If the Public Service Commission approves Progress Energy’s request for a base rate increase of about 30 percent, local governments that charge utility and franchise taxes will get an unexpected boost in their tax collections next year.

If St. Petersburg used its additional utility tax and franchise fee money to create an additional layer of rebates, some of the less expensive upgrades such as window film, duct repair, additional insulation and energy-efficient lighting could be free or close to free.

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