Delaware Public Service Commission PUBLIC COMMENT SESSION FEBRUARY 26.2026. DOCKET # 25-0826. [Source] Translate

Mark Lawrence, the Senior Hearing Examiner at the Delaware Public Service Commission, opened the meeting regarding docket number 25-0826, which concerns a large load tariff for Delmarva Power and Light Company. He clarified that this docket is distinct from the Delmarva electric rate case and provided background on the proceedings. The docket was initiated by a petition on August 28, 2025, from the Commission staff and the Division of the Public Advocate, requesting Delmarva Power to create a tariff for customers with a monthly maximum demand of 25 megawatts or more. Delmarva Power intervened in the case, and the Commission granted this intervention, emphasizing the need for a separate class for large load customers to address cost and reliability concerns for existing ratepayers. Delmarva Power proposed a new service class, GS-LD, for large demand customers and outlined an application process for those with projected loads of at least 50 megawatts. The proposal aims to protect Delmarva's customer base from financial risks and to plan for infrastructure development effectively. A public comment session was announced, with written comments accepted until April 6, 2026. Several individuals provided public comments, primarily from New Castle County. Concerns were raised about the proposed tariff's adequacy in covering costs associated with large data centers, with some arguing for a more comprehensive approach to prevent additional burdens on residents. Others highlighted the economic benefits of large load customers, emphasizing job creation and local economic support, while urging timely action to attract investment. Some commenters expressed skepticism about the tariff's impact on electricity rates and the potential influx of data centers affecting local development. The meeting also focused on solar energy development and its implications for ratepayers, particularly regarding grid capacity and costs. A speaker noted that while data centers draw power from the grid, solar generators push power back and require significant infrastructure upgrades, which are often socialized among all ratepayers. Concerns were raised about the responsibilities of developers versus ratepayers, with rural electric cooperatives refusing additional solar backflow due to infrastructure limitations. Legislation, such as SB 210, was mentioned as an attempt to address these issues, but it does not resolve the question of who pays for grid upgrades. Commenters expressed frustration over rising electricity rates, particularly for low-income residents, and called for fairness in cost allocation. They criticized the lack of transparency in the PSC's processes and questioned how the proposed large load tariff would protect residential and small business customers. There were calls for public input and clarity on the PSC's authority to set tariffs. Concerns about the impact of large data centers on local infrastructure, energy costs, and employment opportunities were also raised. Some speakers highlighted the low employment density of data centers and the potential for minimal long-term economic benefits. Others criticized the regulatory approach, arguing it favors industry profits over community welfare and called for realistic regulations based on experiences from other states. Support for House Bill 233 was expressed, with arguments that the current tariff does not adequately protect families from rising energy costs. Commenters emphasized the need for specific protections, such as exit fees for bankrupt data centers and long-term contracts. Concerns about the potential crisis for families unable to afford rising utility bills were also voiced, along with calls for a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis of data centers' impacts. The meeting concluded with an invitation for public comments, but none were received from participants on Zoom. The moderator thanked everyone for their contributions and wished them a safe journey home.