Pennsylvania Prepares for Impending Electricity-Rate Spikes

Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection reports that Pennsylvania is heading for severe rate spikes by the end of 2010, following the expiration of electricity rate caps in the state. The household consumers and businesses will find it difficult to pay their electricity bills, which are expected to see a double-or-triple digit rise. Such a sharp increase in electricity expenses will also put pressure on the businesses in the state to stay competitive nationally and internationally.

Similar instances have already been witnessed by residents in other areas as stated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. In Maryland, residents faced a 70-percent rise in electricity costs. A major employer was forced to shut down that resulted in a loss of hundreds of jobs.

Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection states that Governor Rendell has already initiated efforts to save the residents of Pennsylvania from the sudden impact of rate spikes by creating awareness about the future scenario in the state. The Governor plans to equip the consumers with necessary tools and information so that they understand their electricity consumption and know about ways to measure and control their consumption once the rate caps are withdrawn in 2010.

The Governor plans to invest in technologies that would help in generating alternative and renewable sources of energy. This will ensure a secure source of energy supply and also reduce dependence on energy sources from outside the state. He expects support from energy utilities to supply electricity in minimum costs. He wants the utilities to first think of efficient methods for energy conservation before investing huge amounts in generation plants that would pollute the environment, reports Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.