POWER Act

HR 10018, the POWER Act, requires retail electric utilities to notify customers at least 30 days before implementing any rate increase, including the percentage, detailed justification, impact on bills, and feedback options. Utilities must also submit to the Department of Energy (DOE) a 60-day advance notice for rate hikes of 5% or more, including cost drivers and consumer impact assessments. The DOE reviews these submissions within 30 days, publishes findings, and makes recommendations for mitigating consumer impacts or adjusting rates. Non-compliance carries civil penalties up to $10,000 and blocks rate implementation until notification is provided. This bill directly affects retail electric utilities and their customers by increasing transparency around rate changes.