What’s Happening With Proposed FirstEnergy Distribution Charges?
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) has launched an investigation into proposed FirstEnergy distribution charges. The utility firm aims to increase revenue by 34% in a service area covering 2.1 million customers over a swath of 56 counties. Hopefully, you didn’t spit out your coffee reading that! Don’t you wish your revenue would spike 34%? The rate increase has PA electricity choice customers up in arms, and the PUC is itching to hear from them. No matter where you live in those 56 counties, you’ll have ample chances to voice your concerns.
Proposed FirstEnergy Distribution Charges
So, what does that massive revenue jump mean for the average home? Across FirstEnergy’s four utilities (Met-Ed, Penelec, Penn Power and West Penn Power), the average bill will rise between $16.61 and $21.30. On the high end of that range, that is more than $255 per year! Surely, you can think of plenty of things you’d rather spend that money on. No one wants excess money leaking from their wallets.
The public reacted in anger. And then the state’s two consumer advocate agencies each lodged formal complaints with the PUC. In response, PUC suspended FirstEnergy’s rate hike until January 1, 2025 and then voted 5-0 to look into the price hike. This probe will see if the utility’s $503 million revenue increase should proceed.
Voice Your Concerns
Alongside this inquiry, PUC will hold a statewide hearing series for people to voice their concerns. Seven in-person hearings and two telephone hearings will take place between June 25 and July 17, 2024. If you’ve never spoken in a public forum, the prospect can be nerve wracking. After all, people often cite public speaking as their biggest fear. However, the PUC offers tips on how to testify. Follow their advice to clearly and concisely state your opinion.
Lower Your PA Power Bill
Speaking out at rate hearings is a great action step. When it comes to PA electricity rates, the PUC needs to hear how the rate hike impacts everyday people. But there’s something even more effective when it comes to lowering your bill! Shop for power plans at https://www.utilityrates.com/electricity-rates/pa, and you’ll find the best rates to align with your power use.