Exploring potential of nuclear; more oversight over rate-setting - new Del. legislation addresses energy costs, supply

More oversight over utility costs, and finding more sources for energy…

Lawmakers are considering several proposals after weeks of hearing from constituents about their rising energy bills this winter.

State Senator Stephanie Hansen, D-Middletown and Representative Debra Heffernan, D-Bellefonte, have introduced bills (SB 59, SB 60, SB 61) that they say would establish new guardrails for Delaware public utilities that are regulated by the Public Service Commission. The lawmakers pointed out that the law allows a public utility to earn a reasonable rate of return on the costs it incurs to operate, but they believe it’s time for a new standard for the PSC to use — and, they want to bring more transparency to the process.

“We owe it to the public to ensure that our utility companies are held accountable for their actions and won’t be allowed to impose undue price increases on their customers,” Hansen said. 

Also, after Monday’s joint legislative committee that focused on energy supply and reliability, State Senator Bryant Richardson, R-Seaford, introduced Senate Concurrent Resolution 18 that would create a Nuclear Energy Feasibility Task Force. Its members would examine the potential of Small Modular Reactors and where they could fit into Delaware’s energy portfolio. 

“Nuclear energy, and specifically SMRs, presents an opportunity to provide Delaware with a stable, reliable, and carbon-free source of power,” Richardson said. “By exploring this option, we can determine whether nuclear energy has a place in Delaware’s future and ensure that our residents and businesses have access to affordable and dependable electricity.”

The findings would be submitted to the General Assembly and the Governor by October 31st.

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