US utility rate hikes spark consumer protests in DC and North Carolina

The District of Columbia Public Service Commission held a public hearing on July 1 as Pepco announced a $7‑per‑month increase to electric rates. Officials linked the jump to a surge in electricity demand driven by AI data centers, electric‑vehicle charging and other loads, and noted that supply costs set by regional operator PJM Interconnection have risen sharply.

In North Carolina, Duke Energy customers gathered at a courthouse to oppose a proposed 18% rate increase over the next two years, slated for approval by the state utilities commission and possible implementation in January 2027. Protesters described bills that have doubled, forcing choices between medication, food and power. Duke Energy said the hike would fund the replacement of 50,000 poles, upgrades to 40,000 miles of lines and other reliability investments.