Improved Service Reliability: Change to the Distribution System Improvement Charge 

On Feb. 20, 2025, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) voted to approve a motion that supports PPL Electric Utilities’ critical reliability investments through the Distribution System Improvement Charge (DSIC). The DSIC is designed to facilitate timely infrastructure improvements, such as system storm hardening, smart grid and other investments to strengthen grid reliability and improve service to customers.  

We know electric bills can be complex and it’s important for you to understand any change in your rates. Check out the FAQs below for more information about the change to the DSIC.  

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Distribution System Improvement Charge? 
The Distribution System Improvement Charge (DSIC) enables utilities to recover the costs of eligible investments to repair, replace, or improve aging infrastructure, so they can continue providing customers with safe, adequate, and reliable electric service. 

Are customers currently paying the DSIC? 
Yes, DSIC is listed as a separate line item on customer bills under System Improvement Charge.

How will the DSIC increase affect customer bills? 
At the full 7.5%, we expect the total bill for a residential customer using 1,000 kWh per month to increase by approximately $1.50 – about 0.90% of a customer’s overall bill.     

When would the new DSIC rate go into effect? 
PPL Electric filed a new DSIC rate of 7.43% on March 3, 2025. The new rate was effective on March 13, 2025.  

Is the DSIC part of PPL Electric’s Price to Compare? 
No. It’s important to note that the DSIC is a portion of your delivery charges and is not related to the Price to Compare, or PPL Electric default rate. 

What additional investments does PPL plan to make on its system? 
The DSIC funds system investments to help us provide you with better quality service, safety and reliability. DSIC-eligible investments include making the grid stronger by replacing poles and wires with more robust equipment, upgrading substations and expanding smart grid technology.   