Starting Monday, most Pittsburgh-area residents will pay more for electricity as new utility rates take effect across Western Pennsylvania.
Residential electric rates are increasing by nearly 3 percent in the Duquesne Light service area, about 7 percent for Penn Power users, and 10 percent for those served by West Penn Power.
State regulators say the changes reflect the cost of electricity itself, not delivery charges.
With forecasters expecting a hotter-than-average summer and higher energy demand, the Public Utility Commission is encouraging consumers to conserve energy and contact their utility company to learn about budget billing, payment plans, and other assistance programs if they're concerned about rising summer bills.
The PA Public Utility Commission recommends monitoring your bill to see energy usage, contact your supplier early if you have payment concerns, ask your biller about payment arrangements/hardship funds, reduce energy use by adjusting your thermostat, replacing air conditioning filters, finding air leaks, use fans when possible and limit using appliances like ovens during the heat of the day.
You can also try to find cheaper rates available HERE.
