Press Release

As Electric Prices Are Rising – PUC Offers Tips to Help You Take Control of Your Summer Bill

Published on 6/2/2025

Filed under: Electric

From Smart Energy Shopping to Everyday Efficiency, the #SaveInPA Campaign Helps Pennsylvanians Manage Seasonal Costs

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today reminded consumers about changes in electric generation prices – known as the Price to Compare (PTC) – for residential and small business customers across Pennsylvania. These new PTCs took effect on June 1, 2025, reflecting current wholesale energy market conditions and seasonal shifts in electricity demand.

The PTC is the price that utilities charge non-shopping customers for electric generation supply. This supply is procured in accordance with Commission-approved plans, but the generation portion of the electric bill is not directly set by the PUC and instead is driven by market factors.

“While energy prices are rising, the biggest driver of your monthly bill is how much electricity you use — and in the summer, usage tends to go up with the heat,” said PUC Chairman Stephen M. DeFrank. “By planning now and paying closer attention to your daily usage, you can avoid surprises when your bill arrives. A few simple adjustments in how and when you use electricity can make a noticeable difference.”

June 1 Price Changes Now in Effect

Typical residential PTC increases among major utilities range between 5% and 16%, although some smaller utilities serving portions of northeastern and north-central Pennsylvania will see larger increases. These changes only affect customers who receive default service from their utility. Customers with competitive supplier contracts will continue paying the price in their agreement — but should remain aware of broader market conditions when evaluating future supply options.

Recent increases in natural gas prices, along with higher capacity costs (payments made to ensure power availability during peak demand), are contributing to rising electricity generation prices. However, usage habits — influenced by weather, appliance efficiency, and consumer behavior — remain the most direct way individuals can control their monthly costs.

Final June 1 PTCs

The following are final electric utility PTCs, effective on June 1, 2025:

Shopping Smart: Understand Before You Sign

The PUC reminds consumers that while some competitive suppliers are offering rates below the current PTC, these offers are typically short-term contracts lasting only three to six months. While they may provide savings over the summer, they require active management.

“Short-term supply contracts can offer a quick benefit, but they also demand close attention,” said Chairman DeFrank. “You must monitor your contract’s end date, watch for renewal notices, and be ready to act — otherwise, you risk defaulting to a month-to-month variable rate with unpredictable pricing.”

Consumers are urged to use the Commission’s official electric shopping website, www.PAPowerSwitch.com, to compare supplier offers, review important contract terms, and learn more about energy conservation.

Protecting Yourself from Misleading Energy Marketing

With the summer season comes a surge in door-to-door and in-person energy sales activity. The PUC reminds consumers to remain vigilant and follow five simple steps to safeguard against deceptive marketing:

1. #CheckForID – Sales agents must wear a visible photo ID badge with the supplier name and a customer service number.
2. Know Who You're Talking To – Agents must clearly identify themselves and their supplier at the start of every interaction.
3. No False Claims – Agents are prohibited from claiming to represent your local utility, the PUC, or a government agency.
4. Avoid Pressure Tactics – You have the right to say no, end the conversation, and request no further visits.
5. Use Trusted Tools – Visit com for verified supplier offers, shopping guidance, and energy-saving tips.

Energy suppliers in Pennsylvania are required to follow strict rules for marketing practices, including background checks for door-to-door agents and time-of-day restrictions for in-person sales. The Commission actively monitors supplier behavior and has imposed fines and penalties on companies that violate these regulations. Consumers with questions or complaints can contact the PUC’s Bureau of Consumer Services at 1-800-692-7380.

More Ways to #SaveInPA This Summer

In addition to energy shopping and supplier awareness, the PUC is encouraging Pennsylvanians to take action at home with simple energy-saving habits. Through its #SaveInPA campaign, the PUC is offering tips and tools for reducing electricity use — including the Summer Energy Checklist, which highlights practical ways to stay cool and cut costs. To learn more, visit www.PAPowerSwitch.com.

About the PUC

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

Visit the PUC’s website at puc.pa.gov for recent news releases and video of select proceedings. You can also follow us on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube. Search for the “Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission” or “PA PUC” on your favorite social media channel for updates on utility issues and other helpful consumer information.

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Contact:

• Nils Hagen-Frederiksen
  Press Secretary
  717-418-2701
  nhagen-fre@pa.gov