Pennsylvania Customers of West Penn Power and Penelec Face Utility Rate Increase in December
Residential customers served by West Penn Power and Penelec will see their electric supply rates rise by more than 6% starting December 1, according to updated pricing filed with Pennsylvania regulators.
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For the new six-month period beginning December 1, Penelec’s residential “Price to Compare” increases from 11.004 cents per kilowatt-hour to 11.747 cents, roughly a 6.7% jump. West Penn Power’s rate moves from 10.318 cents to 10.947 cents per kilowatt-hour, an increase of about 6.1%.
The change affects the supply portion of the bill for customers who use the utilities’ default service rather than choosing a competitive electricity supplier. Distribution charges remain unchanged.
State officials say wholesale market conditions and higher power capacity costs are driving the increase. The adjustment arrives as winter usage typically climbs, meaning some households may see a noticeable bump in monthly bills.
Customers concerned about higher costs are encouraged to review assistance programs, budget billing options, or shop for alternative suppliers under Pennsylvania’s Energy Choice program.
The new rates remain in effect through May 31.