New Jersey residents, including those in Franklin, should prepare for a notable rise in electricity bills starting June 2025, following the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities’ approval of the 2025 Basic Generation Service (BGS) auction results. This annual auction sets the electric supply prices for the state’s four leading utility companies and directly impacts the cost paid by most households and small businesses. As a result, customers across the state will see their monthly bills increase by an average of 17% to 20%, depending on their utility provider and usage patterns.

For Public Service Electric & Gas (PSE&G) customers, the increase translates to approximately $27 per month for a typical residential user consuming 650 kilowatt-hours, bringing the average monthly bill to approximately $183. Atlantic City Electric customers will face a similar hike, with a 17.23% rise in supply rates, while Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L) customers expect an increase of nearly 20%. These higher rates will remain in effect for at least a year.

Several factors are driving these increases. Key contributors include a surge in energy demand—partly attributed to the expansion of data-center delays in bringing new power generation online, and broader market dynamics affecting supply and capacity costs. Utilities do not profit from these supply charges; the costs are passed directly to customers as determined by the auction process.

To help manage these rising costs, residents are encouraged to adopt energy-saving habits and take advantage of available programs. Utility companies like PSE&G offer a variety of energy efficiency initiatives, including rebates for weatherizing homes and installing energy-efficient appliances such as heat pumps. Qualifying low- and moderate-income households can access enhanced incentives through programs like Home Comfort LMI, Home Performance LMI, and the Residential Energy Affordability Partnership (REAP).

Additional strategies to reduce energy bills include:

• Online tools such as PSE&G’s Home Energy Assessment can be used to pinpoint areas for energy savings.
• Time-of-day pricing plans offer lower rates during off-peak hours.
• Exploring payment assistance programs through utility websites if you’re struggling with bills.
• Enrolling in equal payment plans to spread costs evenly throughout the year and avoid seasonal spikes.

Simple daily habits—like using natural light, turning off unused electronics, adjusting thermostats, and switching to LED bulbs—can also lower bills. Investing in Energy Star-rated appliances and monitoring energy use with smart devices further enhances savings. Solar panels may provide long-term relief from high energy costs for those with suitable homes.

For more information and resources tailored to Franklin residents, visit our newly dedicated Home Energy Efficiency and Cost-Savings webpage created with a generous grant through the Sustainable Jersey-PSE&G Energy Efficiency Partnership Program. By combining these strategies and leveraging available support, residents can better manage the impact of upcoming energy rate increases and contribute to a more sustainable energy future.

For more information and on the program that best fits your household needs please go to:
https://www.energyoutreachnj.com/franklin/

For more information about the Franklin Township Environmental Commission, please visit:
https://www.franklintwpnj.org/environmental