Duquesne Light Co. (DLC) recently requested a regulatory review from the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) of a proposed rate increase to modernize the electrical grid in Allegheny and Beaver counties.
DLC requested an overall rate increase of $101 million. Residential customers using 600 kilowatt-hours monthly would have a 6.52 percent increase monthly, commercial customers using 10,000 kilowatt-hours would have a 6.3 percent increase, and industrial customers using 200,000 kilowatt-hours per month would have a 6.12 percent increase.
If the PUC approves the request, the new rates would take effect on or before Jan. 1, 2025. The increase would be first DLC has implemented in three years.
“Our customers have greater expectations of the grid than ever before. Continuing to provide safe, reliable and resilient electric service in the face of changing climate dynamics is a critical responsibility that we take very seriously,” Kevin Walker, DLC president and CEO, said. “Beyond these basics, we must also invest to ensure that the grid is nimble, intelligent and responsive enough to support the evolving expectations placed upon it as we progress through our region’s clean energy transition. Doing this well will give our customers, friends and neighbors a competitive advantage and contribute to a bright, equitable future for all.”