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As June 1 rate hikes take effect, PSE&G announced a Summer Relief Initiative.

As NJBIZ has reported, the June 1 increase stems from the results of PJM Interconnection‘s capacity price auction, with New Jersey ratepayers set to face increases of up 20%.

PSE&G customers will incur a 17% increase. The utility notes it does not control nor earn a profit on that rate. It also added the charge is being passed on directly to customers with no markup.

“There is now widespread recognition that New Jersey needs more power generation to address the forecasted energy supply-demand imbalance,” said Kim Hanemann, president and chief operating officer, PSE&G. “PSE&G is not the cause of the 17% rise in electric rates, but we can support our customers by advancing critical solutions.”

Key things to know about the Summer Relief Initiative include:

• Summer moratorium: Beginning July 1, provides utility shutoff protection to low-income and qualified individuals; will continue until Sept. 30
• Suspension of reconnection fees

This initiative comes on the heels of PSE&G’s filing with the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities proposing a deferral of the effects of the June 1 supply increase for residential electric customers over the summer (pending review and approval).

PSE&G also stressed that, as the heat rises and customers run air conditioners more frequently to cool their homes, it is important not to confuse increased electric rates with increased electric usage. The company noted that the amount of electricity needed to cool a home to 75 degrees when it’s 90 degrees outside is 125% higher than when it’s 85 degrees outside.

“These actions should help relieve a burden to families and communities just as the weather is getting warmer and electricity usage hits its peak,” said Hanemann. “We encourage our customers to reach out to us if they are struggling to pay their bill so we can help them access the solutions available.”

More resources offered by PSE&G for its customers is available here.