Officials told the council the city's energy-and-capacity contracts run through 2030; staff said the city must decide to re-enter the market or build a local power-generation facility, both of which could raise rates substantially. The electric fund shows committed funds for a potential power-generation facility and increased reserve rules tied to purchase-power costs.

MSD told council members it plans bond financing and expects rating agencies to respond favorably; Hardy said the utility expects modest rate increases around 7% as it adjusts coverage for added debt service.

Consultant Jessica Lynch presented a water and wastewater rate study recommending phased rate increases smoothed by a replacements/improvements line and partial use of impact fees and reserves; councilors pressed for clarity on impact-fee projections and how much is committed vs. projected.

Forney staff told council that wholesale water and sewer price increases (water 8.7%, sewer 9.9%) will be passed to customers in October and said the city has applied for a $15 million grant to build an elevated tank on the North Side to help avoid future rate hikes.

City staff explained mailed‑notice and public‑hearing requirements for proposed water and wastewater rate increases under the referenced 'Propuesta 18,' and councilmembers discussed infrastructure needs that could justify new revenue.

City staff proposed a 3.25% annual increase to most solid‑waste rates for 2027–28, rebalancing charges between cart sizes; staff also outlined Climate Commitment Act compliance obligations and proposed a separate line‑item to raise an estimated $2.6–3M (staff proposed $2.75/month residential and $9/month commercial).

Public commenters urged greater transparency and oversight of the municipal utility BWL, warning that proposed and recent rate changes have produced significant cumulative increases; the council heard calls to align BWL reporting with standards used for investor‑owned utilities.

Resolution 4-37, authorizing the city to use specified rates for calculating charges for certain non-city customers, was approved; several public commenters criticized past cumulative rate increases.

Interim budget staff presented a preliminary FY2027 utility budget with proposed base‑rate increases (electric 3%, water 5%, wastewater 9%, drainage 12%), a combined five‑year CIP of roughly $2.4 billion, and a plan to use reserves and borrowing for major capital; board members pressed staff for more details on assumptions, interfund transfers and impacts to customers.

City council unanimously approves impact fees and discusses projected water and sewer rate increases.

Utility staff presented the 2026 budgets for electric, water and wastewater, projecting a half‑year electric rate case in 2026, the full-year impact of a 2025 water rate in 2026 and planned 14% annual wastewater rate increases beginning in 2026. Staff estimated roughly $11/month average residential bill impact in 2026 and about $50/month cumulative

Consultants from New Gen told the Watertown Water and Sewer Authority on June 17 that wholesale price jumps from the city of Waterberry and a modeled $30 million bond to satisfy a Waterberry judgment require front-loaded rate increases; the firm recommended a level-cash scenario that would raise combined median quarterly bills roughly 28–29% in 2027.

Aquarion Water discusses projected rate increases required for capital investment and compliance costs.

Citizens express concern over proposed 12.11% rate increase, citing financial strain and historical context.

Fremont County commissioners reported the utility Black Hills sought a previous rate increase and is seeking additional increases that speakers described as approaching 50% by 2029 for parts of the county; commissioners discussed how state energy policy and transition mandates can drive utility costs and urged direct attention to policy authors.

Willdan Financial Services presented two scenarios to fund $97 million in water and wastewater capital projects for San Juan, showing steeper near‑term rate increases under a 100% debt plan and lower increases if about half the CIP is funded through other sources; a commission workshop was requested.

A WaterWorth presentation to the assembly outlined wastewater and electric financial forecasts that showed cash shortfalls tied to major capital projects (pump stations, effluent disinfection). The wastewater model projects a large multi‑year rise (combined ~53.5% over 2027–2031 in one scenario); WaterWorth showed an average 4,000‑gallon wastewater bill rising roughly $12.51 under the proposed scenario. The assembly asked staff for alternative spread‑out scenarios and effects of a new 1–2 MW customer on rates.

At an April 21 introductory hearing, the Senate Community & Regional Affairs Committee heard SB 16, presented by Dawson Mann for Senator Myers, which would allow already‑regulated refuse utilities to use a simplified rate‑filing process and require the Regulatory Commission of Alaska to adopt refuse‑specific rules and mandatory public notice.

Capacity auction prices within the PJM Interconnection region have significantly increased, prompting concerns about rising electricity costs for consumers. The 2024-2025 delivery year auction cleared at $28.92 per megawatt-day, a figure that surged to $269.92 in the 2025-2026 auction and reached $329.17 in the 2026-2027 auction – the maximum price permitted by the Federal Energy

Maryland's electricity consumers are facing a noticeable increase in their monthly bills due to a complex interplay of factors affecting the state's energy infrastructure and market dynamics. A key driver is the recent strain on Maryland's capacity market, which has resulted in escalated prices passed on to residents as the system tries to guarantee adequate power generation to meet demand. Beyond this, costs associated with grid upgrades and renewable energy expansion are also contributing to higher bills, leading to increased dissatisfaction among consumers who feel they lack control over their energy expenses.

PSE&G’s recent rate increases have left many New Jersey residents shocked and struggling. This summer, families across the state were confronted with unexpectedly high electric bills, a stark contrast to previous years. The sudden surge, which went into effect on June 1st, resulted in substantial increases for many households, with some experiencing jumps as high as 20%. These hikes coincided with a period when air conditioning usage sharply increased, adding significant financial strain on families already managing rising costs. The unexpected impact has sparked widespread concern and questions about the fairness of the rate adjustments.

COMED customers can expect to see increased costs on their electricity bills this summer. Several factors are contributing to this rise. A significant portion of the increase stems from higher natural gas prices, which directly impact the cost of generating electricity. These elevated gas prices are influenced by global demand and supply chain issues. Additionally, ComEd’s infrastructure investments and maintenance projects are being passed on to consumers through rate increases. These investments are aimed at modernizing the power grid, enhancing reliability, and accommodating the increasing adoption of renewable energy sources. Regulatory approvals and decisions also play a role in determining electricity rates. The Illinois Commission on Energy Affairs (ICEA) has been reviewing ComEd’s rate requests, and their decisions ultimately impact what customers pay. While ComEd argues these investments are necessary for a resilient and future-ready energy system, customers are understandably concerned about the financial burden. Looking ahead, volatile energy markets and ongoing infrastructure upgrades suggest that bill increases could persist.

Illinois electricity customers can expect to see their bills increase, according to a recent announcement from the Citizens Utility Board (CUB). The non-profit consumer advocacy group is alerting residents and small business owners about rising electricity costs driven by current market conditions. CUB is proactively providing resources and guidance to help navigate these potentially higher expenses. The expected rate increases will impact Illinois households. CUB emphasizes the importance of understanding these changes and taking steps to manage electricity usage. As a consumer advocate for over 40 years, CUB has a track record of protecting consumers and has secured savings exceeding $20 billion. To help customers lessen the impact of rising costs, CUB recommends several strategies. Reducing energy consumption through efficiency measures is a primary focus. Customers should also investigate Ameren’s Peak Time Rewards program, which offers credits for lowering usage during periods of high demand. Community solar programs are another potential avenue for savings, often providing a more cost-effective alternative to traditional electricity rates. CUB also cautions consumers to exercise caution when considering alternative electricity suppliers. While these options might seem attractive, they are also subject to market price fluctuations and may not offer significant savings. An exception exists for communities that have negotiated specific deals with alternative suppliers. For more information and assistance, consumers can contact CUB’s Consumer Hotline at 1-800-669-5556 or visit their website at [https://www.citizensutilityboard.org/](https://www.citizensutilityboard.org/).

Maryland energy consumers may face higher bills in the near future. A recent report from the Maryland Office of the People's Counsel indicates potential rate increases for both residential and commercial customers. The report suggests a variety of factors are contributing to this possibility. These factors could impact the cost of electricity for homes and businesses across the state. The Office of the People's Counsel is tasked with representing the interests of Maryland utility consumers. Their findings highlight a situation that warrants attention from both policymakers and energy users. Further details regarding the specific causes and extent of potential increases are expected to be released shortly.