Delmarva Power officials discuss electricity rates and bill increases amid cold weather

In a recent meeting of the House Natural Resources & Energy Committee, Delaware lawmakers engaged in a critical discussion about the state of electricity rates and the implications for residents. The atmosphere was charged with concern as representatives sought clarity on the challenges faced by constituents regarding rising energy costs.

The meeting, held on March 26, 2025, featured a key exchange between Representative Halofsky and Matt Hartigan, the executive director of the Public Service Commission. Halofsky inquired about the process of restoring power after it has been turned off, highlighting the urgency of understanding how quickly residents could regain access to electricity. Hartigan reassured the committee that the process is efficient, typically requiring only minutes, thanks to advancements in technology that allow for remote reconnections.

However, the conversation quickly shifted to the financial burden associated with these services. Hartigan confirmed that there is a fee for turning power back on, prompting concerns about affordability for residents who may already be struggling. This led to a broader discussion about recent spikes in electric bills, particularly during the colder months when demand for heating surged.

Representative Collins raised questions about whether these increases were due to rate hikes or simply the result of harsh winter weather. Hartigan noted that while the supply charge for electricity is adjusted annually, there had been no significant rate increases in recent months. Instead, he attributed the higher bills to increased energy consumption during the cold snap, which affected the distribution charges on customer bills.

The committee members expressed gratitude for the ongoing efforts to address these issues, with Representative Lambert commending the bill sponsor, Representative Ross Levin, for his work in crafting legislation aimed at protecting vulnerable residents from potential shut-offs during challenging times.

As the meeting concluded, the representatives left with a clearer understanding of the current energy landscape in Delaware, but the discussions underscored the ongoing challenges that many residents face as they navigate the complexities of energy costs and access. The committee's commitment to addressing these issues signals a proactive approach as Delaware prepares for the upcoming summer months, when energy demands are expected to rise once again.