Starting June 1, electric bills are expected to rise for many residents across Pennsylvania. This increase will affect customers of several major utility companies, including PPL Electric Utilities and Met-Ed.
The change comes as part of the semi-annual adjustment to the “price to compare,” which is the default rate charged to customers who don’t shop for electricity suppliers.
PPL Electric Utilities, which serves more than 1.4 million customers, will raise its residential rate from about 9.12 cents per kilowatt-hour to approximately 12.12 cents.
This is nearly a 33% jump. For a typical household that uses around 1,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity per month, this could mean an increase of about ₹2,500–₹3,000 extra per year.
Met-Ed customers will also see a price increase, although the exact new rate wasn’t available in the report.
These new rates are regulated and updated every six months by the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC), and utility companies are required to purchase energy in the wholesale market to supply non-shopping customers.
Officials say that the increases are due to rising generation costs in the energy market. While delivery charges remain the same, the generation rate is what changes based on market trends.
Consumers who haven’t switched to a competitive electricity supplier are charged the standard “price to compare,” which will now be more expensive.
The Pennsylvania Office of Consumer Advocate encourages consumers to visit the PA Power Switch website to compare electricity rates and possibly switch to lower-cost suppliers. Many consumers are unaware they have the option to shop around for electricity and potentially save money.
The upcoming increase is not unique to Pennsylvania. Across the country, electricity prices have been rising due to inflation, supply chain issues, and higher demand during warmer months.
Energy experts recommend that households monitor their usage, turn off unnecessary appliances, and explore fixed-rate plans to better manage their monthly bills.
Those struggling to pay their electric bills may qualify for assistance programs. Residents can find information on payment plans and aid through the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission, which oversees rate changes and works to ensure consumer protection.
Utility customers are advised to take these changes seriously and act before the rate increases take effect. Whether by conserving electricity, comparing suppliers, or applying for assistance, taking steps now could help soften the blow of rising power costs this summer.