Rising Energy Costs: A Warning Sign for Delaware from Across the River

As Delawareans continue to navigate the challenges of inflation and rising living costs, it’s important to look at what’s happening just across the river in New Jersey—and consider whether we’re next.

From 2015 to 2025, New Jersey’s in-state electricity generation has dropped sharply, falling from around 80,000 megawatt-hours (MWh) to below 60,000 MWh. Meanwhile, the state’s energy demand has remained steady, forcing it to rely more heavily on imported electricity from the PJM Interconnection grid.

That dependence just got a lot more expensive.

In a recent PJM electric capacity auction, prices surged by nearly 800% over the previous year. As a result, New Jersey residents are bracing for a $22–$28 increase in their monthly electric bills starting in June 2025. Businesses will likely pay even more—something Shep Kilby, our 39th District Chair, knows firsthand.

Shep runs Let’s Do Linens, a family-owned event linen company based in Bridgeton, New Jersey. With rising energy prices, he’s already feeling the pinch—operating costs are climbing, cutting into margins, and threatening small businesses like his that are still recovering from pandemic-era disruptions.

Despite annual energy auctions in New Jersey meant to encourage competition and transparency, state policies have done little to strengthen local energy independence. The consequences are clear: skyrocketing costs, uncertain reliability, and economic strain for both residents and business owners.

The 39th District Republicans are paying attention.

Delaware is also tied into the PJM grid. If we don’t stay vigilant and support commonsense energy policies that protect local supply and keep costs down, we could soon be facing the same fate. We cannot allow Trenton-style energy planning to creep into Dover.

We must push for energy independence, local generation, and affordable, reliable electricity for all Delawareans.

Stay engaged. Support leaders who understand the real-world impact of policy decisions—and who fight to keep Delaware powered and prosperous.