PPL(US:PPL) Prnewswire·2025-09-30 20:19Core Viewpoint - PPL Electric Utilities has filed its first distribution base rate request in a decade to enhance service reliability, improve resiliency, and better meet customer needs, amidst rising costs and severe weather challenges [1][4]. Investment and Rate Request - The company is seeking a distribution base rate revenue increase of approximately $356 million, which would raise total annual revenue by about 8.6%, with a net increase of just over $300 million after accounting for existing charges [4][6]. - The last rate change occurred on January 1, 2016, and over the past decade, the company has managed to keep operating and maintenance expenses below the rate of inflation, with a nominal increase of only 7.4% since 2015 [5]. Customer Impact - If approved, the rate increase would result in an additional cost of about $13 per month for residential customers using 1,000 kilowatt-hours, approximately $8 for typical commercial customers, and a significant increase for industrial customers [6][7]. - The company remains committed to helping customers manage their bills through flexible payment options and energy-saving programs, having assisted over 100,000 customers in 2024 [8]. Infrastructure and Technology - Investments will focus on strengthening the electric grid to withstand severe weather, minimize outages, and protect against cyber threats, including tree trimming and stronger infrastructure [6][4]. - The implementation of next-generation smart grid technologies has already helped avoid more than 3 million outages, demonstrating the effectiveness of prior investments [6]. Commitment to Service - PPL Electric Utilities emphasizes its commitment to transparency and open communication regarding the rate review process, with detailed materials available on its website [10]. - The company regularly ranks among the best utility companies for reliability and customer satisfaction, serving about 1.5 million homes and businesses in Pennsylvania [11].