Pepco Bills Jump as Energy Demand Surges Across the Region

June 18, 2025

D.C. Pepco customers are facing a 17. 7% monthly bill increase of $20. 81 effective June 1, mandated by the Public Service Commission of the District of Columbia.

Who is affected

D.C. Pepco customers
Low to moderate-income families
Senior citizens in D.C., particularly those on fixed incomes
District residents, especially those with median household incomes around $65,855 annually (seniors) compared to $87,800 for other residents

What action is being taken

PJM is implementing reforms approved by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to ensure more supply sources
Pepco is offering bill payment assistance programs including the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, Residential Aid Discount Program, and Arrearage Management Program
The Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) is offering Solar for All to help 100,000 low to moderate-income families
DCPSC hosted an educational outreach event called "Flip the Switch" for seniors to learn about energy conservation options
Pepco is working to create more opportunities for energy generation inside D.C.

Why it matters

Electricity costs are essential expenses that households cannot live without
The price increases represent a significant financial burden, especially for seniors on fixed incomes
D.C. currently imports approximately 98-100% of its energy from other areas, making it vulnerable to external price fluctuations
Solar alternatives can dramatically reduce costs (as demonstrated by Barbara Allen's bill reduction from $500-600 to under $90)
Energy affordability impacts quality of life, as it's necessary for heating, cooling, lighting, and powering appliances

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The Washington Informer