PPL Electric Utilities Proposes $275M Rate Hike, First Since 2016
PPL Electric Utilities filed a joint petition with the Pennsylvania PUC to raise annual base distribution revenues by $275 million, marking its first rate increase since 2016. If approved, residential customers using 1,000 kWh monthly would see bills rise about $7.42, and new rates would start July 1, 2026.
1. Settlement Filed and Petition Details
PPL Electric Utilities submitted a non-unanimous settlement petition to the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission requesting approval for its first base distribution rate increase since 2016. The settlement includes a diverse group of stakeholders, with only two parties objecting to provisions on large net metering customer classification.
2. Proposed Rate Increase and Timeline
The proposal would raise annual base distribution revenues by $275 million and hold rates flat for two years from the effective date. If approved, new distribution rates would take effect July 1, 2026.
3. Customer Bill Impact Estimates
Residential customers using 1,000 kWh per month would see bills rise by about $7.42, commercial customers using 1,000 kWh and 3 kW per month would incur an extra $4.64, and industrial customers using 150,000 kWh and 500 kW per month would face an increase of roughly $382.63.
4. Infrastructure Investments and Customer Support
Funds from the increase will finance infrastructure upgrades—such as pole replacements, animal and lightning guards, enhanced tree trimming, and smart grid technology—and expand affordability programs like hardship fund credits, waived reconnection fees, and a new large load customer rate class contributing $11 million to low-income assistance.