As the cold winter months continue, Pennsylvania residents are bracing for higher energy bills. But understanding your power bill and knowing what to expect can help you manage costs and even find savings. Arbor shares what you need to know about electricity rates in Pennsylvania and how to plan for the remainder of this winter.

Power Prices in Pennsylvania This Winter

Electricity supply rates vary across Pennsylvania, depending on your utility provider. These rates, measured in cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh), determine how much you pay for the energy you use and make up the largest portion of your power bill. These rates can also change monthly or seasonally, depending on where you live. Here are the current rates and their expiration dates for Pennsylvania's major utility areas:

Pittsburgh, McKeesport, Monroeville: 10.85 cents/kWh

Duquesne Light customers in Pittsburgh, McKeesport, and Monroeville will see a rate of 10.85 cents/kWh for the remainder of the winter, with a rate change expected in Spring 2025. This rate went into effect in December.

Allentown, Harrisburg, Scranton, Lancaster, Wilkes-Barre: 10.771 cents/kWh

PPL customers in cities like Allentown, Harrisburg, Scranton, Lancaster, and Wilkes-Barre will continue to see rates of 10.771 cents/kWh through May 2025. This utility rate also went into effect in December 2024.

Philadelphia, West Chester, Media, Norristown: 9.273 cents/kWh

For PECO customers in Philadelphia, West Chester, Media, and Norristown, rates will be 9.273 cents/kWh through February 2025. A rate change is expected mid-winter in these cities, so keep an eye out.

For most Pennsylvania residents, these rates will remain steady through May 2025, except for PECO customers, whose current rate of 9.27 cents/kWh is set to expire in February 2025. After that, PECO customers should keep an eye out for updated rates or consider switching suppliers to lock in savings.

Why Your Power Bill May Feel Higher

Several factors contribute to higher energy bills during the winter months:

• Increased usage: Heating your home requires more energy, especially during extended cold spells.
• Seasonal demand: Higher demand across the grid has led to slightly elevated supply costs. This trend is likely to continue over the coming months.
• Delivery charges: These charges cover the cost of maintaining the grid and delivering electricity to your home. They are separate from supply rates and often increase with higher consumption.

Understanding these components can help you plan your budget and identify ways to reduce costs.

How to Manage Your Energy Costs This Winter

Here are some practical steps to keep your power bill under control:

• Check your rate: Look at your most recent bill to confirm your utility supply rate and compare it with other suppliers. Pennsylvania's deregulated energy market allows you to shop for better rates. There are likely lower, fixed rate options out there that could save you money.
• Reduce your usage: Simple changes like sealing drafts, setting your thermostat a few degrees lower, and using energy-efficient appliances can make a big difference.
• Take advantage of programs: Many utilities offer budget billing, rebates, and energy-saving programs to help residents manage costs during the winter months.
• Monitor your consumption: Smart thermostats and energy-tracking tools can give you real-time insights into your usage and help you make adjustments.

For the remainder of this winter, Pennsylvania residents can expect stable electricity rates in most utility areas, providing some predictability for budgeting. By understanding your power bill, shopping for competitive rates, and making small efficiency changes, you can keep your energy costs in check and stay comfortable through the cold months ahead.