Author: PC-DC Staff Published: 6/16/2023 PC-DC
Consumer Alert June 15, 2023
Be Prepared for Costly Electric Rate
Increase With the June Billing Cycle
People’s Counsel Sandra Mattavous-Frye alerts DC residential and small business customers who take Pepco’s Standard Offer Service (SOS) that effective June 1, a 14 percent increase in the cost of generated electricity will raise the monthly bill for the average residential consumer using 631 kWh per month by approximately $12.18. The average small business customer will see an increase of $30.06 per month due to a rate increase of 13.2 percent.
The new rates were approved by the Public Service Commission (PSC) on April 21, and the additional costs should begin to be reflected on bills at the close of the June billing cycle. Pepco does not generate electricity. The company participates in a bidding process that is overseen by the PSC and OPC to select purchase agreements to buy electricity for DC customers.
In its decision to allow the new rates, the PSC expressed its concern for the consumers in the District who will feel the impact of the increase. OPC shares this concern and is working to limit the impact of the increased rates on already struggling households. In a letter to Pepco management, People’s Counsel Sandra Mattavous-Frye said, “The absence of electric service in the home has a direct impact on the health, safety, and overall quality of life of financially vulnerable consumers.” Before this rate increase, consumer disconnection complaints received by OPC were already soaring, in many cases, among consumers who had not overcome the effects of the pandemic.
Natural gas is commonly used by electricity generators, particularly as coal and oil are being phased out. However, many factors including the Ukraine war have significantly increased the cost of natural gas, and these costs, affecting electric generation, are being passed on to consumers.
OPC is calling upon Pepco to use all lines of communication to prepare consumers for higher bills as we enter what is predicted to be a hotter-than-usual cooling season. OPC is particularly concerned with at-risk and senior populations as the hotter weather often means poorer air quality and much heavier use of air conditioning.
What Can You Do?
Read your bill to determine just how much the increase may affect your budget. If you need help in understanding your bill, an OPC consumer services specialist can help you.
Keep up to date with your payments. If you cannot make a payment on time, contact Pepco immediately.
Learn if taking advantage of energy efficiency measures can help reduce your electricity usage. Just like keeping cold air out of your home in winter, it is important to keep warm air from entering your home in summer.
You may be eligible for one or more free energy efficiency programs available from the Department of Energy & Environment (DOEE) and the DC Sustainable Energy Utility.
And, at all times—OPC Can Help!
Contact 202.727.3071 or info@opc-dc.gov
Contact OPC @ (202) 727-3071
Office of the People’s Counsel for the District of Columbia | Website