The POWER Act requires retail electric utilities to notify customers at least 30 days before implementing rate increases, with notifications that must clearly explain the percentage increase, reasons for it, and its impact on average bills. Utilities must use multiple communication methods—including direct mail, email, websites, and local newspapers—to reach affected customers, and those who fail to comply face civil penalties up to $10,000 and cannot implement the rate increase until proper notification occurs. Additionally, for rate increases of 5 percent or more, utilities must notify the Department of Energy 60 days in advance, and the DOE must publish findings within 30 days assessing consumer impacts and recommending potential adjustments, phased-in increases, or efficiency improvements to avoid future rate hikes. The bill affects all retail electric utilities and their customers across the country, with ongoing monitoring by the DOE after rate increases take effect to evaluate real-world impacts.
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