Nova Scotia Power is warning customers that it will start charging late payment fees again in October, 18 months after it froze the penalties following a massive cybersecurity breach.

The utility said Wednesday it wants to give ample warning of the upcoming charges, which go into effect Oct. 1, so people have time to negotiate payment plans.

"If customers need help, if they are struggling, it's important that they call us," Chris Lanteigne, the director of customer care, said at a news conferen…