Understanding the Delmarva Rate Case: Your Voice in the Public Record
By Tamarra Morris, Ombudsman
The Delaware Public Service Commission (PSC) is reviewing an application from Delmarva Power & Light Company to increase electric base rates and change certain service terms. Known as Docket No. 25-1555, this proceeding provides an opportunity for residents and businesses to understand the request and share how proposed changes could affect them.
The final two in-person public comment sessions are scheduled for Tuesday, October 20th in Lewes and Wednesday, October 21st in Wilmington. Written comments may be submitted to the Commission through November 4, 2026.
What is a rate case?
A rate case is a formal process through which a regulated utility requests changes to the rates it charges customers. The utility submits financial information, testimony, and supporting documents for review.
This case concerns electric distribution base rates, which help pay for the local infrastructure and operations that deliver electricity to customers, along with proposed changes to the electric tariff. A tariff is the approved schedule of rates and terms of service. Distribution charges are one component of an electric bill; a proposed percentage increase in distribution rates does not mean the same percentage increase in the total bill.
The requested increase is a proposal subject to review. Filing an application does not guarantee approval.
What must the Commission do?
The PSC serves as a neutral decision-making body. It evaluates the application and the case record under Delaware law to determine just and reasonable rates. That review includes the revenue needs of the utility and its past and projected returns on investments used to provide service.
The Commission does not have unrestricted authority to deny a rate increase simply because an increase is unpopular. Its decisions must be supported by the evidence and the applicable law. Within that framework, the Commission may approve or reject all or part of a proposed increase or tariff change.
The Commission must carefully evaluate whether the requested rates are justified and cannot determine the outcome until the regulatory process is complete.
The Division of the Public Advocate (DPA) has a separate role: representing customer interests in utility proceedings. The PSC considers the positions presented and decides the case.
How does the legislature shape utility regulation?
The Delaware General Assembly establishes the state laws that govern utility regulation, including the authority and responsibilities of the PSC. The Commission applies those laws when reviewing applications and issuing decisions.
Changes to the statutory framework must occur through legislation enacted by the General Assembly. The Commission can adopt rules and issue orders within its delegated authority, but it cannot rewrite state law or expand its own powers.
The PSC provides regulatory information and technical expertise to support legislative consideration of utility issues and implements requirements established by enacted legislation. The legislature sets the statutory framework; the Commission decides individual cases within that framework.
Public comments in this case address the pending application. Residents seeking changes to state utility laws may also share those concerns with their elected legislators.
Why does public participation matter?
Public comments give residents and businesses an opportunity to describe how proposed changes could affect household budgets, business operations, and the ability to afford essential utility service.
Participants are encouraged to explain specific concerns and experiences related to this application. Comments become part of the public record, and the Hearing Examiner compiles and summarizes them for the Commission. These sessions are opportunities to provide comments and not question-and-answer forums.
Two public comment sessions were held in Kent County, on August 19th and September 23rd, with opportunities to participate in-person or remotely. The remaining sessions extend in-person participation to Sussex and New Castle counties.
Both sessions are in-person only. There are no virtual participation options available.
Lewes – Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at 6:00PM
Cape Henlopen High School
Main Building, Cafeteria/Atrium
1250 Kings Highway, Lewes
Wilmington – Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at 6:00PM
Carvel State Office Building
Second Floor Auditorium
820 North French Street, Wilmington
Attendance is not required to participate. Written comments concerning Docket No. 25-1555 may be submitted on or before November 4, 2026:
- Online: Visit DelaFile (https://delafile.delaware.gov), locate Docket No. 25-1555, and submit comments to that docket.
- Email: Send comments to psc@delaware.gov (mailto:psc@delaware.gov), with Docket No. 25-1555 in the subject line.
The Delmarva Power application and case documents from all parties are available through DelaFile.
Utility Bill Support
Customers who cannot afford their utility bills should first contact their utility to ask about payment plans and available financial assistance. If additional help is needed, the Delaware Division of the Public Advocate (DPA) can communicate with the utility on behalf of customers, help address billing or service concerns, and assist in identifying financial resources. Customers should seek assistance promptly, particularly if they receive a disconnection notice.
About the Author
Tamarra Morris serves as Ombudsman for the Delaware Public Service Commission, leading public communications, public relations, and community engagement. Her work focuses on expanding public awareness of utility regulation, while strengthening transparency, accessibility, and public participation.
For outreach and public education inquiries: tamarra.morris@delaware.gov
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