Author: DC-OPC Staff Published: 9/30/2024 Office of the People’s Counsel
September 2024
A Note from Your
People’s Counsel
Sandra Mattavous-Frye
Working Together for a Cleaner, Greener DC
The Office of the People’s Counsel wholeheartedly supports the District’s clean energy and carbon reduction goals and is working to ensure that the transition to clean and renewable energy is equitable, reliable, cost-effective, resilient, and benefits all consumers. We do this through partnering with fellow government, environmental, and community stakeholders, and through education and empowerment of consumers in all eight wards.
One example of our education efforts was the “Virtual Citywide Clean Energy Forum: Programs and Funding” we hosted on September 25. Our goal was to inform DC residents, businesses, and nonprofits about the federal funding available through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and how they could take advantage of the multi-million-dollar federal programs aimed at reducing emissions, modernizing infrastructure, and addressing climate change.
The funding expands tax credits and rebates for installations of solar power systems and energy-efficient appliances and promotes electric vehicle adoption, for example. During the forum, we were pleased to have Nick Burger of the DC Department of Energy & Environment, Ben Burdick of the DC Sustainable Energy Utility, and Gary Decker of the DC Green Bank highlight the nuts and bolts of how consumers could benefit from these initiatives. OPC thanks these partners and the public for “zooming in.”
A recording of the forum will be available on opc-dc.gov soon. In the meantime, here are helpful links to check out: DOEE/IRA Programs; DCSEU Resources; DC Green Bank.
We are working together to make the District a cleaner, greener, and more energy-efficient city.
Pepco Customers Face Major Transmission Cost Increase in 2025
OPC is concerned about an upcoming significant increase in utility rates due to a rise in electricity transmission costs. Consumers could see their Pepco bills increase by about $12 a month next year. On September 5, People’s Counsel Sandra Mattavous-Frye sent a letter to the DC Public Service Commission requesting the creation of an advisory task force to discuss how to protect consumers from rising costs, as well as the implications of the growing presence of data centers.
These costs are not the result of Pepco’s operations, or a decision issued by the Commission. It’s linked to actions by PJM Interconnection, the regional transmission organization that coordinates the movement of wholesale electricity to 13 states and the District of Columbia before utilities like Pepco get it to your home. To meet this obligation, PJM must execute contracts to ensure that electricity is always available to meet the shifting demands of multiple utility companies and jurisdictions, including during power outages.
PJM conducts biannual auctions to secure purchase agreements with independent energy companies that operate power plants that generate electricity, specifically to meet seasonal peaks in consumer demand for energy.
As reported in Renewable Energy World, “PJM’s last power market auction was a canary in the coal mine [or early warning of trouble]. The July 30 auction produced a price of $269.92/MW-day for most of the PJM footprint, compared to $28.92/MW-day for the last auction- a nearly 900% increase.” The outlook for increases in the PJM winter auction is equally dim.
Renewable Energy World cites industry experts who say the PJM price hikes are driven by the cumulative effect of years of struggling to get more renewable energy sources interconnected. At the end of 2023, PJM had 3,309 projects – mostly solar and battery storage – waiting to connect to the grid.
The combination of delayed renewable energy projects, as many older fossil-fueled generation plants are being taken out of service, comes as the demand for electricity is spiking, creating a troublesome financial outlook for utility consumers.
In her letter to the Commission, People’s Counsel Mattavous-Frye wrote: “It is important to note that consumers will bear the brunt of any increase in transmission rates. They also will pay for any increase in Pepco’s distribution rates approved by the PSC in Pepco’s pending rate increase request of more than $185 million over the next three years.” The People’s Counsel maintains, “In light of these urgent concerns, a dialogue is needed to create a clear framework for addressing the rising costs, educate consumers, and develop both short and long-term solutions.”
Understanding the Difference:
Third-Party Billers vs. Third-Party Suppliers
When it comes to utility bills, you may come across terms like “third-party biller” and “third-party energy supplier.” While they may sound similar, they play very different roles and are regulated differently, so it’s important to understand the difference—especially when dealing with billing disputes.
You may have seen news stories a few weeks ago about a third-party biller associated with a landlord whom Northeast tenants accused of charging them “hidden” utility fees. Landlords or property managers in multi-unit buildings typically use third-party billers to calculate and send utility bills to their residents. Instead of having individual meters for each unit to measure usage, the building’s total utility use (for water, gas, or electricity) is divided among tenants. Unfortunately, third-party billers are not regulated by the DC Public Service Commission, and the Office of the People’s Counsel does not have the authority to handle complaints involving them. This lack of regulation can leave tenants with limited options for resolving disputes or for receiving utility assistance.
A third-party energy supplier is a company that provides electricity or gas but uses the distribution system of local utilities like Pepco or Washington Gas to deliver it to your home. For example, solar or wind energy may be sold directly to customers and delivered over Pepco’s electric grid. These suppliers are regulated by the Commission in terms of service (but not rates), and OPC and the PSC can assist if you have a complaint.
f you face issues with a third-party biller, review the billing terms of your lease, contact your property manager, dispute bills in writing, and contact the Office of the Tenant Advocate. While OPC cannot intervene directly with third-party billers, we can provide guidance and connect you with agencies that may be able to help, including entities that provide bill payment assistance. Contact us via email info@opc-dc.gov, or phone (202) 727-3071.
Understanding these distinctions can help you better navigate utility concerns and protect your rights as a tenant.
The Consumer Connection
Here’s a letter from a Ward 3 property manager who was assisted by OPC Outreach Specialist George Gilbert, Jr.
We wanted to take a moment to express sincere thanks, on behalf of my company and the business owner, for your diligent work in resolving the Pepco billing matter. Your intercession with Pepco was instrumental in bringing this case to resolution. We opened several tickets over the last 4 months with the utility company to have payments correctly applied. The issue stemmed from a change in ownership of the property. Pepco would not transfer funds from one billing account to another without proof of payment by the new entity. We provided Pepco with all the required paperwork, but we were going nowhere. The amount in dispute was considerable. OPC gave credence to our case and accelerated the reapplication of the funds and the closure of the case. We really appreciate your efforts. — Jacqueline Camplisson, Rappaport Management Company
The Water Connection
Heads Up!
LIHEAP and CRIAC Relief Programs Open October 1
OPC’s Water Services Division wants DC residents to know the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) will open applications for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and Clean Rivers Impervious Area Charge (CRIAC) Residential Relief Program on October 1, 2024. These vital programs are here to help you manage DC Water, Pepco, and Washington Gas utility bills.
LIHEAP and CRIAC provide financial assistance to eligible households, making it easier to keep your water on, your home warm and your lights on. If you’re facing financial challenges, this aid can be a lifeline.
Who can apply? LIHEAP and CRIAC programs are available to low to moderate-income households. Eligibility is based on your household size and income. It’s important to check your qualifications to take advantage of this assistance. You might be surprised to discover you are eligible.
Need help with your application? OPC is here to assist you! Our team can guide you through the application process and answer any burning questions. We encourage all eligible residents to apply as soon as the program opens. Don’t wait!
Contact OPC: For more details on eligibility and the application process, visit the DOEE website or contact OPC at (202) 727-3071 to schedule an in-person appointment.
Let’s work together to ensure everyone in our community has access to the resources they may need in the coming months to stay hydrated, warm, and informed!
Save the Date!
Youth Environmental Justice & Advocacy Workshop
OPC will host an exciting workshop for DC high school students on October 23 and 24. The workshop will equip students with essential skills in environmental justice advocacy, community organizing, and engaging with government officials. Sessions will empower youth to become effective advocates for their communities and prepare them to become tomorrow’s leaders. Participants will have a chance to connect with speakers and leaders from the environmental and advocacy communities, as well as other youth activists.
To reserve a spot for your students, DC educators can contact OPC Assistant People’s Counsel Adam Carlesco at acarlesco@opc-dc.gov. Check out his interview on the Washington Informer’s WIN-TV for more information.
OPC is Advocating for Consumers in the
Following Cases:
FPEPACR2024-01: Consolidated Report of Potomac Electric Power Company and Formal Case 1119.
Formal Case 1119: Joint Application of Exelon Corporation, Pepco Holdings, Inc.; Potomac Electric Power Company; Exelon Energy Delivery Company, LLC; and New Special Purpose Entity, LLC for Authorization and Approval of Proposed Merger Transaction.
On August 19, OPC filed a Motion for Enlargement of Time and Comments on the 2024 Annual Consolidation Report.
Formal Case 1167: The Implementation of the Business Climate Plan.
On August 19, OPC filed a Motion for Status, seeking a Procedural Schedule and Policy Direction from the PSC.
Formal Case 1176: Pepco’s application for approval to increase rates through the implementation of a Multiyear Rate Plan, also referred to as the “Climate Ready Pathway.”
On August 21, OPC filed a Letter of Stipulation with the PSC, objecting to the PSC’s current process of holding oral arguments and admitting testimony without an evidentiary hearing.
On August 30, OPC filed a Post-Hearing Brief in this matter.
On September 17, OPC filed a Motion to Exclude the Audit Report from the Hearing Record.
Formal Case 1178: Petition for Investigation into Washington Gas Light Company’s System Leak Reduction Practices
On September 3, OPC filed Initial Comments on WGL’s Protocols for Identifying Leaks and categorizing Grades 1, 2, and 3 Leaks
OPC In Your Neighborhood!
OPC welcomes opportunities to speak at your Advisory Neighborhood Commission, civic association, community group activity, or meeting, either onsite or virtually. We can give updates on utility issues and trends and highlight how we serve DC consumers. Call (202) 727-3071 if your group would like our staff to make an onsite or virtual presentation. Currently scheduled appearances are below. Contact the organizations directly if you would like links to attend any of the listed virtual meetings OPC will be attending.
ANC 8E Public Monthly Meeting
Monday, October 7
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Virtual Teams Meeting
Presentation at North Capitol at Plymouth
Senior Assisted Living Community
5233 North Capitol Street NE
Tuesday, October 15
11:00 am – 3:00 pm
United Planning Organization
Octoberfest Career Fair
UPO Petey Greene Community Service Center
2907 Martin Luther King Avenue SE
Friday, October 25
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
DC Federation of Civic Association
91st Annual Awards Luncheon
JBAB- Joint Base Anacostia- Boiling
50 Theisen Street SE
Saturday, October 26
11:00 am – 2:00 pm
We look forward to seeing you!
OPC Consumer Outreach Specialists Jason Starks and CharQuia Barringtine show some of the goodies and valuable information OPC shares with consumers to help them save energy and money on utility bills. The table was at the Anacostia Neighborhood Library in Ward 8,
Connect With OPC!
Do you have feedback or an idea for an article that could be featured in an upcoming edition of the OPC Connection? We want to hear from you! Just drop our editorial team an email @ info@opc-dc.gov or X/tweet us @DCOPC.
OPC Connection Editorial Team:
Doxie McCoy, Phillip Harmon, Quaneisha Glover,
Chawndise Battle, Dwayne Houston, Alya Solomon, Valca Valentine
Contributors:
Sandra Mattavous-Frye, Karen Sistrunk, Laurence Daniels,
Antaeus Hayes, Linda Jefferson, CharQuia Barringtine,
Rusheeda Boyd, George Gilbert, Jr., Cheryl Morse
The Office of the People’s Counsel, 655 15th Street NW, Suite 200 Washington, DC 20005 | Tel: (202) 727-3071 | Fax: (202) 727-1014 | TTY-TTD: (202) 727-2876
www.opc-dc.gov | info@opc-dc.gov