Nonprofit ambulance and rescue squads in eastern and central Pennsylvania can save money on their electric bills because of a rate change announced today (2/10) by PPL Electric Utilities.

As a result of recently approved legislation in Harrisburg, nonprofit ambulance and rescue squads are eligible for a special electric rate that previously was available only to volunteer fire companies and senior citizen centers. Under this option, rates are lower than PPL Electric Utilities' standard commercial rates.

"We are pleased to be able to help nonprofit ambulance and rescue squads reduce their electric service costs," said Michael E. Bray, president of PPL Electric Utilities. "We commend the state Legislature for taking action that enables us to make lower rates available to these important community service organizations."

An ambulance organization that uses 8,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity in a month, with a maximum demand of 20 kilowatts, paid $695 on the standard commercial rate. Under the special volunteer organization rate it will pay $590, a savings of 15 percent.

To change their accounts to the special rate, nonprofit volunteer ambulance and rescue organizations should mail a written request, including copies of their Tax Exemption Certificate and Holding Exemption Certificate, to PPL Electric Utilities, 827 Hausman Road, Allentown, PA 18104.