Duquesne Light Company's Inaugural Economic Impact Study Reveals $848 Million Contribution to Pennsylvania Economy
Study highlights company’s role as a key enabler of economic growth, community investment and regional resilience across southwestern Pennsylvania
PITTSBURGH — Duquesne Light Company (DLC), which serves more than 600,000 customers in Allegheny and Beaver counties, today announced the results of its first-ever economic impact study, revealing an annual, total direct economic contribution of approximately $848 million to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
The study, conducted by advisory firm Proximo over a five-month period, reviewed data from 2023 and 2024 to provide a comprehensive snapshot of DLC’s economic influence through its operations, workforce, supplier partnerships, community investments and customer assistance programs.
“This study confirms that DLC is more than a utility provider — we strengthen the economic vitality of our local communities in the greater Pittsburgh area and beyond,” said Christine Waller, DLC’s vice president of communications and corporate responsibility. “From supporting thousands of jobs to investing in nonprofits and helping families keep the lights on, our impact is both wide reaching and deeply personal to each of the customers we serve.”
Key Findings
- Regional enablement: DLC’s top 25 commercial and industrial customers employ nearly 468,000 people, with an estimated $56.2 billion in economic impact — a testament to the company’s role in powering the region’s economic backbone.
- Workforce development: DLC employed more than 1,800 people in 2023, paying $203 million in wages. These earnings translated into a $420 million economic impact in local communities.
- Supplier spending: DLC spent $408 million with suppliers nationwide in 2023, supporting nearly 1,800 jobs and generating $775 million in economic activity. Of that, $132 million was spent in Pennsylvania, supporting 781 jobs and contributing $252 million to the state economy.
- Customer assistance: In 2023, DLC provided over $10 million in utility assistance, helping customers in disadvantaged communities access essential services. This support generated an estimated $22 million in economic impact by freeing up household income for other necessities like food and housing.
- Municipal tax contributions: DLC paid over $73 million in state and local taxes in 2023, enabling governments to maintain infrastructure and public services. This translated into a $152 million economic impact.
- Community investment: In 2024, DLC awarded $1.3 million in charitable grants to 55 nonprofit organizations, resulting in a $2.7 million economic impact through job support, resource distribution and local spending.
The study also highlights the company’s growing influence beyond Pennsylvania, particularly through its national supplier network and the broader economic activity enabled by its reliable energy delivery.
As DLC continues to invest in upgrading its infrastructure, affordable energy and community partnerships, the company anticipates its economic impact will grow in the years ahead.