May 27, 2026 By Karen Mansfield 2 min read

Pennsylvania utility regulators are warning consumers to prepare for higher electric bills this summer as new electricity generation prices take effect June 1.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission said all PUC-regulated electric utilities across the state will adjust their “Price to Compare,” or default electricity supply rate, just as summer temperatures and air-conditioning use begin increasing electricity demand across Pennsylvania.

The combination of rising electricity supply costs and heavier summer usage could significantly increase monthly utility bills for many households, officials said.

“While June 1 generation price adjustments may increase supply costs for many customers, extended heat waves and heavier air-conditioning use can have an even larger impact on total monthly bills,” the PUC said in a news release.

The changes will primarily affect customers who receive default electric supply service from their utility company instead of choosing a competitive electricity supplier.

For Duquesne Light customers, rates will increase about 3%, while West Penn Power customers will see their rates increase about 10%.

The PUC says electricity bills are made up of two main parts: generation/supply charges and delivery/distribution charges.

For many households, generation/supply costs account for about half of the total electric bill – though the total impact of summer bills can vary significantly depending on weather conditions and household electricity usage, according to the PUC.

“During periods of extreme heat, electric bills can rise quickly because air conditioners and cooling systems run longer and more frequently. Even modest increases in electric supply prices may have a larger impact during especially hot months because total household electricity use also increases,” the PUC said.

The commission is urging consumers to:

– Review your current electric bill and monitor energy usage as temperatures rise.

– Reduce unnecessary energy use by adjusting thermostats, replacing HVAC filters, sealing air leaks, using fans, and limiting heat-producing appliances during the hottest parts of the day.

– Contact your utility early if you are concerned about paying your bill or falling behind on payments.

– Ask about CAPs, budget billing, hardship funds, and payment arrangements.

Explore conservation resources and educational tools through PAPowerSwitch.com.