Garrity for Governor: Lower PA Electricity Costs & Stop RGGI Fees

Pennsylvania residents are facing high energy costs, as illustrated by a recent electric bill of $203.10 received by a Wilkes-Barre homeowner, despite living in an energy-efficient townhouse with a heat pump. This experience reflects a broader trend of elevated bills due to unusually cold winter temperatures.

The RGGI Debate

The discussion surrounding these costs centres on the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), which some argue adds “junk fees” to energy bills. Governors Wolf and Shapiro have supported participation in RGGI. According to data from Electricchoice.com, Pennsylvania’s average electricity rate is currently 20.58 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh).

State Comparisons

A breakdown of costs reveals that PPL’s price to compare is around 13 cents per kWh, with an additional 5 cents added for distribution, bringing the total to approximately 18 cents. Comparing Pennsylvania’s rates to other RGGI member states shows significant differences. Connecticut (27.84 cents), Massachusetts (31.51 cents), New York (27.07 cents), New Hampshire (27.39 cents), Rhode Island (31.3 cents), Vermont (24.89 cents), and Maine (29.55 cents) all have higher rates.

Did You Know? Pennsylvania’s legislature, comprised of both Republicans and Democrats, recently voted to remove the state from RGGI.

Maryland’s rate is 22.40 cents, while Delaware’s rate (18.39 cents) is comparable to Pennsylvania’s. Even California, which is not an RGGI member but imposes similar energy fees, has a rate of 33.75 cents per kWh.

Looking Ahead

The future of energy costs in Pennsylvania could depend on the outcome of the upcoming gubernatorial election. A continued commitment to avoiding RGGI, as advocated by Stacy Garrity, may be seen as a way to maintain more affordable energy prices. Conversely, a shift in policy could lead to increased costs, similar to those seen in other RGGI states. Future legislative action could reinstate the state’s participation in the initiative.

Expert Insight: The debate over RGGI highlights the complex trade-offs between environmental policy and energy affordability. Removing a state from such an initiative could have implications for regional emissions reduction goals, while remaining involved may lead to higher costs for consumers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is RGGI?

The Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) is a cooperative effort among several states to reduce carbon emissions from power plants.

What is Pennsylvania’s current electricity rate?

Pennsylvania’s average electricity rate is 20.58 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh), according to Electricchoice.com.

Which states have higher electricity rates than Pennsylvania?

Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, Maine, and California all have higher electricity rates than Pennsylvania, according to the data provided.

How might the upcoming election impact energy costs in Pennsylvania?