Pepco’s Latest Rate Hike Could Increase Bills by 60% on Some Buildings

Testimony and analysis from the Apartment and Office Building Association (AOBA) found the potential for soaring bills under this new rate structure. This potential 60% rate increase impacts retail and other commercial buildings in DC, but even more troubling: the District’s own buildings. 

Last spring, Mayor Bowser attempted to take funding from environmental programs like the Healthy Homes Act, in part, to pay for increased energy costs incurred by government buildings. It’s worth noting that the commissioners that approved Pepco’s rate increase were both appointed by Mayor Bowser.

Opponents of Pepco’s rate increase also estimate the utility will earn 36% more in profit than it is legally allowed. While Pepco is mandated to credit ratepayers when they over-earn profits, advocacy groups have stated Pepco’s cost manipulation tactics shielded the company from paying money back in the past.