Puget Sound Energy (PSE) customers in King County and other parts of Western Washington are seeing an increase in their utility bills due to recently approved rate hikes. The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC) approved the rate changes in December 2025, which took effect on January 1, 2026.

Rate Increases

The rate increases are attributed to various factors, including the state’s push for renewable energy and the need for PSE to invest in infrastructure to support clean energy and reliability. The UTC reported that the net impact of the rate changes for electric customers is a roughly 12% increase, or about $17 per month for the average residential electric customer using 800 kWh per month. For natural gas customers, the UTC estimated a roughly 7% increase.

PSE is also seeking approval for additional rate increases, with a three-year rate plan filed with the UTC in February 2026. The proposed rate plan includes increases of 15.2% in 2027, 3.7% in 2028, and 8.7% in 2029 for electric service, and 14.2% in 2027, 3.2% in 2028, and 3.6% in 2029 for natural gas service.

Rebates and Assistance

Despite the rate increases, PSE offers various programs to help customers manage their energy costs and use energy more efficiently. The Bill Discount Rate program allows customers to qualify for a lower rate based on income and household size, while the Home Energy Lifeline Program (HELP) provides up to a $1,000 credit to help with bill payments. Additionally, rebates are available for energy-efficient appliances, heating and cooling systems, and other energy-saving measures.

PSE customers may also be eligible for the Community Solar income-eligible program, which can save customers approximately $10 to $20 per month. The Peak Time Savings program and Flex Rewards program also offer opportunities for customers to save on their energy bills.

Original reporting: Renton Reporter — read the source article.