Bill > HR1149

This bill, known as the POWER Act (Protecting Our Wallets from Excessive Rates Act), establishes new notification requirements for retail electric utilities planning to increase rates for consumers. Under the bill, utilities must provide consumers with at least 30 days' advance notice of a rate increase, including a clear statement of the percentage increase, detailed reasons for the increase, an explanation of how it will impact average consumer bills, and information on how consumers can provide feedback. Utilities must use multiple communication channels to notify consumers, such as direct mail, email, website posting, and local media. The bill also requires utilities to submit a detailed notification to the Department of Energy (DOE) at least 60 days before implementing a rate increase of 5% or more. The DOE will review the proposed increase, publish a report with findings and recommendations, and monitor the impact of the rate increase after implementation. Utilities that fail to comply with these notification requirements can be subject to civil penalties up to $10,000 and will be prevented from implementing the rate increase until they meet the notification requirements. The bill aims to provide greater transparency and consumer protection in electric utility pricing.

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https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/1149/all-info