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Bill

Bill

HB 116

AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 26 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO PUBLIC UTILITY RATES.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Bill Bush and 12 co-sponsors

Delaware amends utility rate regulation to modify how public utilities establish and adjust rates, balancing cost recovery with consumer protection.

Signed by Governor
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 116

Legislative bill overview

HB 116 amends Delaware's public utility regulatory framework under Title 26 of the Delaware Code. The bill modifies how utility rates are established and reviewed, though the specific rate-setting mechanisms are not detailed in the provided information. It received bipartisan support, passing both chambers and gaining gubernatorial approval.

Why is this important

Public utility rates directly affect residential and business electricity, water, and gas costs across Delaware. Changes to rate-setting procedures can influence whether utilities recover infrastructure costs fairly, how quickly consumers see rate changes, and the balance of power between utility companies and regulatory oversight. This impacts both household budgets and utility companies' ability to invest in grid modernization and renewable energy transition.

Potential points of contention

  • Rate design methodology - The bill may shift how fixed versus variable costs are allocated, potentially affecting different consumer classes (residential, commercial, industrial) differently
  • Regulatory timeline and process - Amendments suggest debate over how quickly rates can be adjusted and what procedural safeguards apply to rate reviews
  • Infrastructure cost recovery - Utilities and consumer advocates often disagree on mechanisms for recovering investments in grid upgrades and renewable energy infrastructure

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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