NEWS RELEASE: Council Members Zanthia Oliver and Michelle Harlee Stand with Residents Amid Delmarva Power Bill Hikes
Thursday, February 20, 2025
Council Members Zanthia Oliver and Michelle Harlee Stand with Residents Amid Delmarva Power Bill Hikes
Residents seeking assistance with their energy bills can explore Delmarva Power’s customer support and assistance programs by visiting the link here.
Wilmington, DE – Frustration, financial strain, and a demand for accountability echoed throughout Stubbs Early Education Center last night, as over 50 residents braved 5-degree temperatures to attend a crucial community meeting hosted by 3rd District Council Member Zanthia Oliver and 4th District Council Member Michelle Harlee. In partnership with the East Side Civic Association, the meeting provided a platform for constituents to voice their concerns over skyrocketing Delmarva Power bills and pressing public safety issues.
With the Wilmington Police Department present to address key safety concerns, Delmarva Power representatives faced a wave of questions from residents struggling to understand the unexpected increases in their utility bills. The event served as a direct response to growing dissatisfaction with Delmarva Power— the state’s largest utility company— after many customers saw dramatic bill hikes beginning in January.
Delmarva Power External Affairs Manager Nadira Alston attempted to explain the increases, citing higher electricity usage due to January’s extreme cold temperatures. “We are in a climate where we are seeing record numbers of higher usage,” said Alston. “In January, we saw the highest usage since 2014. Customers are seeing that their usage is significantly higher. We did have an increase in our delivery for distribution, but that was implemented for our winter rates, which have been in effect since October 2024. In June 2025 to September 2025, customers will see another rate for summer rates.”
Despite these explanations, many residents remained unsatisfied, questioning why their bills had doubled or tripled in just one month. Others shared stories of financial hardship, struggling to decide between paying their utility bills and affording basic necessities. The frustration in the room was visible, with constituents demanding greater transparency and more relief from Delmarva Power.
In response, Alston announced temporary measures to assist struggling customers. “We want customers to know that Delmarva has removed late payment fees for January and February, and there will be no disconnections happening in February. We are also offering customers a 24-month payment plan to ease the burden.”
While these efforts provide some relief, 3rd District Council Member Zanthia Oliver emphasized that she will continue to advocate for her constituents. “Our residents deserve clarity, fairness, and access to essential utilities without financial devastation,” said Council Member Oliver. “We will not stop pushing for answers and solutions to ensure the well-being of our community.”
Residents seeking assistance with their energy bills can explore Delmarva Power’s customer support and assistance programs at https://www.delmarva.com/my-account/customer-support/assistance-programs-de
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COMMUNITY AND MEDIA INQUIRIES:
Yesenia TaverasDirector of Communications
Wilmington City CouncilOffice: (302)576-2585
Email: ytaveras@wilmingtonde.gov