PSE&G has announced the implementation of a Summer Relief Initiative aimed at protecting qualified residential electric customers from disconnection. The initiative comes in response to a significant increase in electric supply prices that took effect on June 1, following PJM's capacity price auction.
The initiative includes a Summer Moratorium, which is an extension of the Winter Termination Program. Starting July 1, 2025, this program will provide utility shut-off protection for low-income and qualified individuals until September 30, 2025. Additionally, PSE&G plans to suspend reconnection fees during this period.
These measures follow PSE&G's filing with the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) to defer the impact of the recent supply increase on residential customers' bills over the summer months. The company initially filed for approval on May 7 and supplemented its request with additional support measures on May 15, which are currently pending BPU review.
Kim Hanemann, president and COO of PSE&G, stated: "There is now widespread recognition that New Jersey needs more power generation to address the forecasted energy supply-demand imbalance." She added that while PSE&G is not responsible for the 17% rise in electric rates, they aim to support customers by implementing critical solutions.
During this deferral period, PSE&G will continue paying electricity suppliers at the new rates despite not passing these costs onto consumers immediately. The company emphasizes its commitment to customer satisfaction and affordability while maintaining reliable service.
PSE&G encourages customers to explore energy efficiency resources available on their website and offers various assistance programs like LIHEAP and SHARES for those facing financial difficulties. They also provide bill payment tools such as Equal Payment Plans and Deferred Payment Arrangements to help manage costs.
PSE&G remains focused on collaborating with policymakers to find long-term solutions addressing rate increases by promoting new power generation development in New Jersey.
Public Service Electric & Gas Co., known as PSE&G, is New Jersey’s oldest and largest gas and electric delivery public utility. It has received numerous accolades for reliability and customer satisfaction over recent years.
