Energy (Utility Regulation)

This bill amends existing laws to strengthen consumer protections for residential electricity and natural gas customers in Washington, D.C. It requires third-party energy suppliers to cap their prices at no more than 110% of the standard utility rate, with exceptions allowed for suppliers offering renewable energy or those deemed to be in the public interest. Additionally, the legislation grants residents the right to cancel their energy contracts at any time without facing early termination fees or penalties. The bill also holds energy companies legally responsible for any violations committed by their agents, contractors, or brokers.

The Public Trust in Utility Regulation Act of 2026 requires electric and gas companies in the District of Columbia to provide detailed information about proposed capital investments when seeking rate increases. This legislation mandates that utility firms disclose the purpose, cost, and expected benefits of each project to the Public Service Commission and make this data publicly available. Additionally, the bill establishes a requirement for the Commission to audit public utility finances, expenditures, and service quality every three years. These measures aim to increase transparency and accountability in utility regulation without changing the Public Service Commission's existing authority. The primary goal is to help residents and policymakers better understand how utility costs are determined and ensure investments serve the public interest.

This resolution declares an emergency to temporarily prevent electricity disconnections for District residents while a court order is reviewed. It addresses a situation where a court vacated a rate plan that had approved significant electricity rate increases, creating financial instability for consumers. The measure aims to pause service disconnections until the Public Service Commission restores rates to their previous levels or takes other action to ensure affordability. By adopting this resolution after a single reading, the Council seeks to provide immediate relief to residents facing potential utility shutoffs during this legal transition.

This bill requires D.C. utilities to base multiyear rate plans on actual historical costs (not projected future costs) and prohibits mechanisms that let companies later raise rates to cover shortfalls. It mandates refunds for excess profits to customers and requires clear, quantifiable evidence of customer benefits for all rate changes. For major gas infrastructure projects (like pipe replacements), utilities must prove cost-effective alternatives were considered before approving surcharges. These changes aim to prevent further bill increases for D.C. residents and businesses, who have seen average annual costs rise by nearly $600 despite existing protections.

This bill prohibits electric and gas utilities from disconnecting service for vulnerable households during summer (May 15-September 15) and winter (November 1-February 29) months. It directly protects households with children under 18, seniors 65+, people with disabilities, pregnant individuals, or those receiving public assistance. Utilities must offer payment plans for eligible customers instead of requiring full payment to restore service, and limit reconnection fees. Additionally, utilities must report monthly data on unpaid bills and disconnections to the Public Service Commission.