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Commissioners push for public briefing from Atlantic City Electric after company cites supply costs for proposed 17% rate increase
Summary
Board members discussed a recent meeting with Atlantic City Electric about a proposed roughly 17% rate increase, questioned the role of the societal benefits charge and called for the utility to present to the full board so the public can hear the company's explanation.
Several Atlantic County commissioners used a meeting report and public comment time to press for a public briefing by Atlantic City Electric after company representatives told a budget‑committee forum that a proposed rate increase of about 17% is driven by supply costs.
Commissioner Risley, who chaired the budget committee session, summarized the company's explanation that the requested June rate increase is related primarily to supply costs rather than transmission, and said the region lacks sufficient generation. "We have a problem, of course, with production of natural gas as well," Risley said, adding that the county will press for a comprehensive approach to energy generation.
Commissioner Corsi urged the utility to present publicly to the full board so residents can hear the company's explanation directly. "We invite the Atlantic City Electric Company ... to come and make that presentation to the whole board," Corsi said, arguing that a public briefing would help constituents understand why rates are moving and avoid surprises.
Commissioner Bertino and others flagged the societal benefits charge, a line item that funds a range of energy programs including assistance for customers and other energy initiatives, and said they want a deeper look at how those funds are being spent.
No formal board action was taken during the meeting; commissioners said they expect a resolution opposing the increases and agreed to invite utility representatives to a future full‑board meeting for a public presentation and questions.
