Senate Democratic Policy Committee Hearing on Lowering Your Electric Bill
HARRISBURG, PA − June 23, 2026 − Senate Democratic Policy Committee Chair Nick Miller (D-14) hosted a policy hearing examining solutions to lower consumer electric bills, alongside Senator Kane and Senator Malone. Experts provided testimony regarding strategies to achieve cost-savings solutions for residential ratepayers in Pennsylvania.
“Electricity should be affordable, reliable, and available to every Pennsylvanian,” said Senator Nick Miller. “Families, seniors, and small businesses across our Commonwealth are facing growing pressure from rising energy costs, and they deserve action. Today’s hearing focused on identifying real-world solutions to increase energy supply, modernize our infrastructure, improve efficiency, and protect ratepayers. Pennsylvania has the resources and expertise to lead on energy policy, and our goal must be simple: lower costs, strengthen reliability, and put consumers first.”
Did you Know?
The average cost of electric bills for Pennsylvanians rose from $100 – $155 from 2020-2025, a 50% increase
The legislature can and should require electric utilities to have mandatory safeguards in place ensuring that the new connection of data centers will not harm existing consumers
Shopping customers paid $350 million more than those that stayed with their original service rates.
Legislation
Senate Bill 503
Establishes the Pennsylvania Climate Emission Reduction (PACER) Program. PACER will help protect and create energy jobs, lower electricity costs for Pennsylvanians, take tangible action to address climate change, and maintain Pennsylvania’s energy independence. (Comitta)
Senate Bill 338
Creates a Water Ratepayer Bill of Rights to ensure residential customers all over the state have input when a municipal water or wastewater authority may be acquired by a private for-profit company. (Kane)
Senate Bill 312
Ensures customers are not automatically enrolled in high priced, variable rate electric generation supplier plans without their affirmative consent after their fixed duration service contracts expire. (Kane)
Senate Bill 363
Senate Bill 1291
Requires utilities to use gridenhancing technologies before building new lines will cut costs, ease grid congestion, and protect Pennsylvania consumers from unnecessary rate increases. (Kearney)