Energy Generation Is Getting More Expensive — Here’s How You Can Save Money
We know our customers count on us every day for the energy they need, and we’re committed to being transparent about changing energy rates.
Generation rates are on the rise, driven by a combination of factors. The growing demand for electricity — fueled by advancements in electrification and the rapid expansion of data centers — is pushing consumption higher. At the same time, the retirement of aging power plants without sufficient new generation to replace lost capacity is straining the system. Due to the supply and demand of the current state of electricity, rates are increasing.
In the state of Pennsylvania, electricity is generated by companies that operate independently from electric distribution companies. Electric utilities like DLC purchase this electricity on behalf of customers who choose not to shop for their electric generation supplier through their competitive “default service” programs, representing a cost that is passed through to those customers. Because generation costs are transferred directly to customers from energy suppliers, DLC does not make any profit from power generation.
Default service rates are revised several times a year based on market energy prices and other factors and may increase or decrease as a result.
Customer Bill Impacts
As with other electric utilities, DLC’s default service (“price to compare”) rates for residential and small commercial customers will increase on June 1, 2025. Specifically, residential customers using default service will see a 15% increase (roughly $9.46) to the “price to compare” portion of their energy bill. This equates to about a 6.8%* increase to the overall monthly bill of a typical non-heating residential customer using 600 kWh. For example, the current energy bill for this type of customer is $138.07. On June 1, that cost will increase to $147.41.
The newest rates for residential service can be found here and business service here. Bill totals will vary by customer.
Learn more about how these rates are structured.
How can I save money?
We recognize that the rising costs of generating electricity represent a challenge for our customers, and we encourage them to evaluate all available options when it comes to saving money.
All customers are empowered to shop for an energy supplier to secure the best rates while also receiving the type of service that best suits their energy needs.
We also understand that many of our customers need financial support, especially going into the summer season when energy use and electric bills tend to increase. Our Help Center is a guide for finding information on payment assistance, understanding your bill and more.
If you find that you’re not eligible for income-based assistance programs, you can still save money by reducing your energy use. Simple changes like adjusting your thermostat or participating in a DLC free energy audit can help make your home more efficient and reduce costs.
We also offer a wide variety of rebates on items such as energy-efficient appliances, water heaters, smart thermostats, heating and cooling pumps, weatherization items and appliance recycling.
*The difference of $9.34 is comprised of an increase in the “price to compare” of $9.46 and a slight $0.12 reduction associated with Rider No. 15A - Energy Efficiency and Conservation Surcharge.