As winter temperatures drop, energy costs in the Philadelphia region have sharply increased, leaving many consumers facing unexpectedly high bills. The surge in energy prices follows a prolonged cold snap and a reset in utility rates that took effect on December 1, 2023. Local utility companies are responding by expanding their customer assistance programs to help alleviate some of the financial burden.
Nils Hagen-Frederiksen from the Public Utilities Commission explained, “There have been energy cost changes, and everybody’s seen those. Depending on your utility, there may have been a base rate change recently.” This shift has affected all major utilities, leading to higher energy supply charges for customers.
In response to the financial strain on households, local power companies, including PECO, Atlantic City Electric, and Delmarva Power, are enhancing their customer relief funds. For instance, eligible customers of Atlantic City Electric and Delmarva Power can now receive one-time grants of up to $500, a significant increase from the previous amount of $300. Meanwhile, PECO has raised its grant limit to $750 and plans to broaden eligibility requirements starting on March 1, 2024.
Families of four earning less than $96,000 will be eligible for this assistance, providing a critical financial lifeline. Candice Womer, a representative from PECO, emphasized the importance of reaching out for help: “If people are struggling to pay their bills, they really need to call us because there are programs available for everyone.”
To further assist customers, PECO offers various options, including energy efficiency programs, flexible payment plans, and budget billing. Womer reiterated the necessity of proactive communication with utility companies, stating, “The key is to call right away if you can’t pay. That’s better than letting unpaid bills pile up.”
The combination of rising energy costs, along with increasing expenses for essentials such as food, has placed additional strain on households. Many consumers are expressing frustration as they navigate these financial challenges. Local utility companies are committed to working with customers to address these issues and provide support where needed.
For those seeking assistance, reaching out to their utility provider as soon as possible is essential. By doing so, customers can explore available options and ensure they receive the support necessary to manage their energy expenses during these challenging times.
