Delmarva Power electricity bills set to go up again in 2026

Delmarva Power, Delaware's primary private utility, has informed state energy regulators of an impending $15 monthly increase to the average home's electricity bill starting in 2026. This hike is attributed to rising energy supply costs, which Delmarva Power Region President Marcus Beal noted are beyond the utility's direct control, and is expected to be approved by the Delaware Public Service Commission. This new increase comes on the heels of a separate request from December, seeking a 4% rise in electricity rates from July due to increased profit allowances, which Delaware Public Advocate Jameson Tweedie has vowed to oppose. Combined, these requests could lead to a total 13%, or $21, surge in typical residential bills. Beal stated the company needs additional funds for upgrades to its aging electric infrastructure. A significant factor driving the growing electricity demand and escalating supply costs is the rapid expansion of data centers, particularly those supporting artificial intelligence, across the regional electricity grid encompassing Delaware, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Ohio. Delmarva Power has confirmed it is actively collaborating with five developers on potential data center projects within Delaware. If these projects proceed, they could nearly double the state's total electricity demand for both homes and industry. Beal reiterated the utility's legal obligation to provide power to all customers, including these large energy consumers. Delaware residents are encouraged to submit public comments on Delmarva Power’s latest rate increase request, which is scheduled to be heard by the Delaware Public Service Commission on April 22.