RESIDENTS in one US state are fuming over proposed utility rate hikes that will spike their energy bills by an extra $170 each year. Over in New Jersey, the electric distribution utility company Jersey Central Power & Light is plotting to bump up consumers’ electric bills by almost 9% starting in 2028. Should the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities approve the request, the new base distribution rates would take effect on May 6, 2027. She directed the Board of Public Utilities to pause “any proceedings in which electric distribution utilities seek approvals for rate increases or cost recoveries” on her first day in office in late January. Sherrill froze utility rates (in) the middle of her inaugural address to keep bills from skyrocketing.