Pennsylvania households should prepare for higher electric bills as generation prices increase across the state beginning June 1, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) announced Wednesday.
All regulated utilities will adjust their electric generation rates on the same day, just as summer air-conditioning use typically begins to climb.
The changes affect the Price to Compare, which is the rate per kilowatt-hour charged to customers who receive default service from their utility instead of selecting a competitive electric generation supplier.
For residential customers, Pike County Light & Power is passing along the steepest increase at an estimated 19.8%. In the Lehigh Valley, Met-Ed is raising its rate by 7.6%, while PPL Electric Utilities is increasing its rate by 1.5%.
Small business customers will experience different rate changes depending on their service territory. PECO estimates a price increase of more than 14% for small businesses, while UGI Electric and Penelec customers will see increases exceeding 12% and 6%, respectively. Small business rates in the Met-Ed, Penn Power, West Penn Power, Duquesne Light and PPL service areas are expected to hold steady or decrease slightly.
PUC officials noted that while the price adjustments will increase supply costs, extended heat waves and heavy cooling use often have a more significant impact on total monthly charges. For many residential customers, generation charges represent around 50% or more of a total electric bill.
The commission is urging consumers to review their energy usage and explore affordability options before peak summer temperatures arrive. Residents can contact their utilities to discuss budget billing, payment arrangements, and customer assistance programs. Pennsylvania utilities dedicate hundreds of millions of dollars annually to support services designed to keep eligible households connected during financial hardships, according to PUC officials.
Customers can also visit papowerswitch.com to purchase electricity through competitive suppliers. Those who have already selected an alternative supply will continue to pay the price established in their contracts.
However, the commission cautioned that current market trends have resulted in fewer supplier offers below the default utility rate. Consumers considering new contracts should verify whether rates are fixed or variable and check for early termination fees or monthly charges.
The commission recommends conservation measures to help manage summer bills, including adjusting thermostats, replacing HVAC filters, sealing air leaks and using fans.
For assistance with unresolved billing or service issues, consumers may contact the PUC’s Bureau of Consumer Services at 800-692-7380.
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