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A Note from Your
People's Counsel
Sandra Mattavous-Frye
OPC Continues Its Fight for Affordable Utility Rates
Front and center of OPC’s daily work is our intention to ensure DC utility consumers are not burdened with excessive, unreasonable, or unfair rates. We also work to ensure all rate-setting procedures are transparent, thorough, and give ratepayers an opportunity to be heard.
For these reasons and others, on June 9, OPC asked the DC Court of Appeals to overturn the Public Service Commission’s (PSC) approval of a two-year rate increase plan for Pepco. In a case that could shape how utilities set rates for years to come, OPC argues that the PSC bypassed its procedures, denied the public proper due process, and ultimately failed to protect consumers.
At the heart of the dispute is a rate-setting mechanism known as a multiyear rate plan (MRP), which allows utilities to forecast costs and receive pre-approved annual rate increases. Pepco’s latest MRP had proposed raising rates for 2024, 2025, and 2026 based on anticipated spending, rather than on actual costs incurred. Traditionally, rate increases are based on historical data, ensuring that utilities can only recover money they’ve already spent prudently.
The PSC had previously approved Pepco’s use of an MRP on a trial basis in 2021 but promised to evaluate the effectiveness of that pilot program before considering future proposals. That review never happened and the PSC approved Pepco’s new multiyear rate plan without first analyzing the pilot.
In its decision, the Commission abandoned its procedures without explanation. But District residents deserve better than a rushed approval of a rate increase that could impact them for years.
Another key issue is the PSC’s decision not to hold an evidentiary hearing. OPC maintains that such hearings are essential to present evidence, question sworn witnesses, and ensure fairness. Instead, the Commission relied solely on written submissions, a practice we believe violates ratepayers’ constitutional rights and undermines public confidence in the regulatory process.
The stakes are high. Not only does the outcome affect Pepco customers’ monthly bills but also could influence how DC utilities propose rate hikes in the future. If the court agrees with OPC, it could force the PSC to reconsider the rate plan under stricter procedural standards and potentially provide greater transparency and public engagement.
The Court of Appeals is expected to hear arguments in the case later this year. We’ll keep you posted as the case moves forward.
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OPC Is Your Utility Lawyer...
And We Mean It!
If you’ve seen OPC at a community event, you may have picked up a card that says: “OPC is Your Utility Lawyer.” That’s not just a slogan—it’s our mission.
Here’s a real example of how we help DC residents:
In August 2023, a family returned to their Northwest home after their tenant moved out, only to find they had no gas service. It turns out that while the tenant was living there, a Washington Gas contractor disconnected the gas line while completing work as part of PROJECTpipes, the company’s citywide pipe replacement program. According to the homeowners, the tenant, who did not have the authority to approve the disconnection, never told them.
The property owners tried for months to get help from Washington Gas, with no luck. When winter hit, they were still without heat. Then, unfortunately, Washington Gas told them they’d have to pay an estimated $20,000 to reconnect their service. That’s when the consumers called OPC.
As the statutory legal advocate for DC utility consumers, OPC represented the family for free before the DC Public Service Commission (PSC).
Thanks to our advocacy, after lengthy litigation, in March 2025, Washington Gas was ordered to reconnect the service without charging the homeowners.
This is just one example of how OPC fights for DC consumers every day.
If you’re dealing with a utility problem and not getting the help you need, OPC is here for you. Contact us at (202) 727-3071 or info@opc-dc.gov. You also can file a complaint at opc-dc.gov.
We’re your voice. We’re your advocate. We’re your Utility Lawyer.
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Gallaudet University’s Solar Project: A Model for Clean Energy and Community Impact
With OPC’s assistance, Gallaudet University has developed a “microgrid” and launched a forward-thinking clean energy project that powers its campus and supports the surrounding community. This initiative is part of a growing trend among universities to invest in sustainable energy solutions that offer environmental, economic, and societal benefits primarily through enhanced energy resilience and the integration of renewable energy resources
What Is the Gallaudet Microgrid?
The Gallaudet microgrid is a localized energy system that can operate independently from the main power grid. This system will parallel Pepco’s grid to meet most of the university’s daily electricity demand, enabling Gallaudet to reduce its reliance on traditional energy sources and maintain power during outages, therefore, improving both sustainability and resilience.
It includes:
· 1.7 megawatts (MW) of solar panels installed across campus buildings
· A 2.6 megawatt-hour (MWh) battery system to store excess energy
· A 4.5 MW combined heat and power (CHP) system that provides electricity, heating, and cooling
Supporting the Local Community
What makes this project especially impactful is its community solar component. Through Pepco’s community solar program, Gallaudet is offering utility bill credits to approximately 400 nearby homes and businesses. Participants can save up to 10% on their electricity bills, making clean energy more accessible and affordable.
OPC’s Key Role
The Office of the People’s Counsel supported Gallaudet’s efforts to bring this project to life. OPC facilitated critical discussions between Gallaudet’s Microgrid Project Team and Pepco during the final commissioning stages, which proved instrumental in resolving interconnection testing challenges with Pepco. OPC’s support safeguarded the project’s development and helped facilitate the delivery of benefits to both the campus and the broader community.
Why it Matters
Across the United States, community solar projects are expanding rapidly. Gallaudet’s microgrid is a strong example of how educational institutions can lead the way in clean energy innovation. By combining solar power, energy storage, and community engagement, with the support of public advocates like OPC, the university is helping to reduce carbon emissions, lower energy costs, and build a more resilient energy future.
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ICYMI: Why Your Electric Bill is Way Up
Last month, OPC alerted consumers that a significant increase in the transmission costs Pepco must pay to receive electricity from out-of-state sources and get it to your homes would begin to show up on electricity bills in June, and we cited the reasons. In case you missed it, though, we want to share a thorough explanation. The background can be found in “Drivers of PJM’s Capacity Market Price Surge and its Impacts on Electricity Consumers in the District of Columbia,” a report OPC commissioned here.
There are plenty of details in the report, but the bottom line is that the price surge means that Pepco customers will see an average increase of about $20 on their monthly bills. With the hot summer season underway, OPC urges you to conserve energy to reduce utility costs. Also, check out this article with some tips.
Utility bills are not the easiest statements to decipher. So, if there is something on your bill you do not understand, OPC can help you figure it out. Our consumer services specialists are available to answer your questions, and if needed, follow up with the utility to resolve a complaint. Call us at (202) 727-3071 or send an email to info@opc-dc.gov.
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The Water Connection
OPC WSD Calls for Conservation as Things Heat Up
The summer months are upon us; and OPC’s Water Services Division reminds consumers that as temperatures rise, so does our water usage. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, two to four times more water is used during the summer than in the winter. Water management and conservation are essential to keeping your water bill down and avoiding service disconnection.
Water usage increases as the heat drives people indoors to cool off. Air conditioning systems, multiple daily showers, and increased clothes washing all contribute to a surge in water usage.
Residents of single-family and multi-unit buildings should nip a leaking faucet or a running toilet in the bud by contacting a licensed plumber or their property manager to address the issue before it escalates into a serious problem. Increased water usage combined with higher rates can become a spiraling problem if you do not take preventive steps.
*On this link, see DC Water’s higher rates that will take effect October 1, when the new fiscal year begins.
Our partners at the DC Office of the Attorney General also want you to know they provide free mediation for addressing water disconnection and air conditioning disputes with landlords. Call the OAG hotline at (202) 442-9828 or email consumer.protection@dc.gov.
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Employee Spotlight: Jabari Webster
Jabari Webster originally came to OPC as a temporary employee in our Operations Division in October 2022. He proved himself to be an invaluable asset to the agency and in March 2025, he joined OPC in a permanent position.
His responsibilities include managing and organizing office supplies, assisting with IT troubleshooting, ensuring that printers and other equipment remain functional, and maintaining agency vehicles to ensure they are fueled, charged, and clean.
Jabari is a native of Southern Maryland and a 2022 graduate of Charles Herbert Flowers High School. Managers say Jabari brings energy, professionalism, and a strong work ethic to every task he takes on. Relatively new to the job market, Jabari says he is thankful for the opportunity to grow in an environment that supports learning and development.
“Many people my age aren’t this lucky, and I’m blessed to be allowed to work with great people who believed in me enough to give me a shot,” he adds.
OPC is fortunate to have Jabari on board and looks forward to watching him continue to thrive and succeed here.
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OPC is Advocating for Consumers in the
Following Cases:
Formal Case No. 1017: The Development and Designation of Standard Offer Service in the District of Columbia
On May 19, OPC filed comments in support of Pepco’s Atrium Report with recommendations to the Commission.
Formal Case No. 1180: The Washington Gas Light Company Rate Case Application
On May 23, OPC filed a List of Material Issues of Fact with the Commission.
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OPC In Your Neighborhood
OPC welcomes opportunities to speak at your Advisory Neighborhood Commission, civic association, community group activity, or meeting. We can give updates on utility issues, and trends, and highlight how we serve DC consumers. Call (202) 727-3071 if your group would like our staff to make an onsite or virtual presentation. These are scheduled events and appearances.
Veteran's Renters Rights for Utilities
Housing Readiness Group
1500 Franklin Street NE
Thursday, July 10
10:30 am - 3:00 pm
Northwest One Library
155 L Street NW
Tuesday, July 15
10:30 am - 3:30 pm
Southwest Library
900 Wesley Place SW
Thursday, July 17
11:30 am- 5:00 pm
Anacostia Library
1800 Marion Barry Avenue SE
Monday, July 21
10:30 am- 3:00 pm
| | OPC's Dionne Calhoun (above left) and Linda Jefferson (below right) at an Anacostia High School Family Day. | | OPC’s Valca Valentine, standing left, joins Jemma King and Geoffrey D. Brooks of Jobs Have Priority, Inc. (both seated), his staff, and job organization vendors at a jobs and resources fair JHP hosted at its Ward 8 office. | | OPC’s Claire Shibelski (right) shares utility consumer brochures with a representative of the Latino Economic Development Corporation at a homeownership workshop the DC Department of Housing and Community Development hosted in Ward 8. | | Phillip Harmon, Quaneisha Glover, and Doxie McCoy of OPC's Communications Division attend the Washington Business Journal's "Meet the Newsroom" event. It was an opportunity to network with WBJ reporters, update them on OPC's service to consumers, and mention how their potential coverage might highlight OPC's work and educate DC residents and small businesses. | | |
Connect With OPC!
Do you have feedback or an idea for an article that could be featured in an upcoming edition of the OPC Connection? We want to hear from you! Just drop our editorial team an email @ info@opc-dc.gov or X/tweet us @DCOPC.
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OPC Connection Editorial Team:
Doxie McCoy, Phillip Harmon, Quaneisha Glover,
Chawndise Battle, Dwayne Houston, Alya Solomon, Valca Valentine
Contributors:
Sandra Mattavous-Frye, Karen Sistrunk, Laurence Daniels,
Linda Jefferson, Sheila Ruffin, Dionne Calhoun, Jason Cumberbatch,
Ankush Nayar, Bryan Rhoades, Knia Tanner, Marchim Williams
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The Office of the People's Counsel, 655 15th Street NW, Suite 200 Washington, DC 20005 | Tel: (202) 727-3071 | Fax: (202) 727-1014 | TTY-TTD: (202) 727-2876
www.opc-dc.gov | info@opc-dc.gov
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