Residents of Jermyn and surrounding areas voiced strong objections against the proposed rate hike from PPL Electric Utilities during a public hearing on October 30, 2023, at the University of Scranton. PPL plans to implement the increase on December 1, which would raise the average residential electricity bill by about 7%. This proposal is part of a broader effort to generate an additional $356.3 million in annual revenue.
PPL Electric Utilities Rate Increase Proposal
PPL Electric Utilities provides service to approximately 1.5 million customers across 29 counties in eastern and central Pennsylvania. According to the proposal, the average residential bill would rise from $177.01 to $189.40 for users consuming 918 kilowatt-hours. Additionally, commercial customers using 1,000 kilowatt-hours would see their monthly bills increase from $161.74 to $170.34, marking a 5.3% rise.
Community Backlash and Official Opposition
Many community members articulated their frustrations at the hearing. Jordan Moran, a 29-year-old full-time student and worker in Lackawanna College, stated that despite his income being three times the Pennsylvania minimum wage, he still struggles with costly utility bills.
Several elected officials joined Moran in expressing their concerns. State Rep. Kyle Donahue criticized the rate increase as “unreasonable and unacceptable,” particularly as PPL had recently raised generation rates by 16%. Donahue highlighted the disproportionate burden this places on families, seniors, and small businesses compared to large commercial entities.
- Monthly Residential Bill Increase: 7%
- Average Residential Bill Post-Increase: $189.40
- Average Commercial Bill Post-Increase: $170.34
- Public Utility Commission (PUC) Decision Deadline: July 1, 2024
Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission Response
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission has opted to suspend the rate increase proposal and will conduct further investigations. This includes hosting seven public hearings to gather community input. Another hearing is scheduled for December 18, 2023, at Wilkes University.
PPL’s Justification and Community Concerns
PPL officials argue that the rate hike is essential for investing in an improved electric grid, which is critical for handling severe weather and enhancing service reliability. Dana Burns, PPL’s Director of Communications, noted that such investments have already reduced outages by 30% over the past year.
Despite these assurances, community leaders like Scranton Mayor Paige Gebhardt Cognetti and State Rep. Jim Haddock have implored the PUC to reject the proposed increase. They argue that the current economic climate makes it difficult for families to absorb further financial burdens.
Conclusion
As the community awaits further developments, the proposed rate hike has ignited significant debate over energy costs and economic fairness. Residents urge the PUC to consider the impact on low-income families and the broader financial landscape in Pennsylvania.
