U.S. Utilities Seek $23.1 Billion in Rate Increases Ahead of Midterms

Electric and gas utilities sought $23.1 billion in rate increases during the first nine months of 2026, adding a household-cost issue to the energy debate ahead of U.S. midterm elections. Third-quarter filings alone could affect future bills for 45.5 million utility customers. That figure refers to customers potentially affected by cases filed in the quarter; it does not mean their bills have already risen. The $23.1 billion total covers requests submitted over three quarters and is not an approved amount. Regulators decide whether to approve proposed changes. The September consumer price index showed fuel oil up 74.2% from a year earlier and gasoline up 34.2%. Electricity rose 4.4%, while piped gas service rose 5%. The increases for the two fuels were larger than those for electricity and piped gas.

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