D.C. Residents Face Rising Utility Bills as National Pressures Intensify

December 29, 2025

Washington, D.C. residents are experiencing significant increases in their utility bills as part of a nationwide trend affecting 49 states through at least 2027. Electric bills in the District have already risen by approximately $21 monthly (18%), while natural gas costs are expected to increase by about $15 monthly (17. 6%) starting in 2026.

Who is affected

Washington, D.C. electricity and natural gas customers
More than 107 million electricity customers nationwide
46 million natural gas customers nationwide
Washington Gas customers in D.C.
Low-income residents and seniors in the District
Families making difficult budget choices between utilities, rent, and groceries

What action is being taken

Pipeline replacement projects are underway
The D.C. Public Service Commission is holding public hearings where residents are testifying about utility bill impacts
The Trump administration is implementing energy policies (specific ongoing actions not detailed beyond general approach)

Why it matters

This issue matters because it represents a dramatic shift after a decade of stable electricity prices, with costs now rising at double the rate of inflation and adding an estimated $90 billion to customer bills nationwide between 2025 and 2028. The increases force vulnerable populations—particularly seniors and low-income families—to make impossible choices between essential needs like heating, housing, and food. The situation also reflects broader debates about energy policy, infrastructure investment, renewable energy deployment, and the balance between meeting surging demand from AI and data centers while maintaining affordability and reliability for residential customers.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The Washington Informer