Bill > SB326

This bill amends Title 26 of the Delaware Code concerning the Public Service Commission (PSC) by enhancing its oversight and transparency powers over public utilities, particularly electric distribution companies. Key provisions include mandating regular management audits of electric distribution companies to assess their effectiveness and efficiency, with summaries to be made public and full reports provided to the PSC Staff and the Division of the Public Advocate, a state agency representing consumer interests. The bill also introduces "Rate Transparency" requirements, obligating utilities to provide clear, itemized breakdowns of all rate elements, including base rates, transmission and supply charges, and various riders and surcharges, on customer bills and their websites, and mandates the use of plain language in all utility communications. Furthermore, it specifies that for electric and natural gas distribution companies, the PSC must use the average year rate base method when determining rates, and it limits the amount of non-mandatory capital spending that electric distribution companies can recover from customers. The bill also modifies procedures for rate changes, allowing utilities to implement a portion of proposed rate increases under bond after certain timeframes, and restricts the recovery of certain expenses related to rate case proceedings for larger utilities. Finally, it requires the PSC to provide adequate support and rationale for all its orders, including those related to settlement agreements.