Credit: PECO.
Local and state leaders are pushing back against a proposed rate increase by PECO Energy Company, calling on residents to make their voices heard as regulators weigh the decision.
The proposal would raise electric rates by 12.5% and natural gas rates by 11.4%, adding an estimated $30 or more per month to the average household bill.
Elected officials say the timing couldn’t be worse.
Ben Sanchez, the Pennsylvania State Representative for the 153rd Legislative District, representing parts of Abington Township, Upper Dublin Township, and the borough of Rockledge in Montgomery County, put out the following statement:
"Last week I joined my colleagues in the Montgomery County delegation of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives to formally oppose the proposed electric and gas rate increases requested by PECO Energy Company.
"I will continue working with my colleagues to push back against these increases and stand up for Pennsylvania families who deserve fair and affordable utility rates."
Politicians are asking residents to sign a petition to make their voices heard.
Local Reps. Liz Handbidge (61st District), Melissa Cerrato (151st District), and Nancy Guenst (152nd District) signed the petition.
At a time when many families are already struggling with rising costs for groceries, housing, and other essentials, lawmakers argue that another increase would put an unfair burden on working- and middle-class households.
Several officials are now urging the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission to reject the proposal, emphasizing that residents should not have to choose between paying utility bills and covering basic needs.
While acknowledging the need for infrastructure improvements, leaders say the cost should not fall disproportionately on everyday customers.
They also pointed to growing energy demand from large-scale users, including data centers, arguing those entities should shoulder more of the cost rather than residential customers.
Lawmakers are encouraging residents across the region to submit comments directly to the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission as part of the public review process.
