Delaware Utilities: Electricity and Natural Gas
Delaware residents and businesses rely on a few major utility companies to provide essential electric and natural gas services. Knowing which utility serves your area, along with the right contact numbers, can help when setting up service, reporting outages, or asking billing questions. This guide gives you a clear look at Delaware’s electric and natural gas utilities, their contact information, and answers to some of the most common customer questions.
Electric Utilities in Delaware
Delmarva Power
Delmarva Power is the main electric utility in Delaware, providing service to a large portion of the state. They supply electricity to both residential and commercial customers.
- Customer Service Phone: 1-800-375-7117
- Emergency/Outage Reporting: 1-800-898-8042
- Website: Delmarva Power’s official website provides outage maps, billing, and service requests.
Delmarva Power is regulated by the Delaware Public Service Commission, which ensures fair rates and reliable service.
Other smaller areas in Delaware may be served by municipal or cooperative utilities, including:
- City of Newark Electric Department – serves Newark residents.
- City of Dover Electric Department – operates within Dover.
- City of Milford Electric Department – manages electric service in Milford.
- Lewes Board of Public Works – provides power in Lewes.
Natural Gas Utilities in Delaware
Chesapeake Utilities (Delaware Division)
Chesapeake Utilities provides natural gas service throughout much of Delaware, covering homes, businesses, and industries. They are known for reliable delivery and customer support.
- Customer Service Phone: 1-800-427-2883
- Emergency/Leak Reporting: 1-800-427-2883 (available 24/7)
- Website: Chesapeake Utilities’ site offers bill payment, new service requests, and energy efficiency information.
Chesapeake Utilities is regulated by the Delaware Public Service Commission, ensuring safety and rate fairness.
Top 5 Customer FAQs for Delaware Utilities
1. How do I start new electric or gas service in Delaware?
Customers can apply online or call customer service for Delmarva Power or Chesapeake Utilities. Municipal utilities typically require in-person applications.
2. How do I report a power outage or gas leak?
Call the utility’s emergency line immediately. For electricity outages, Delmarva Power customers should call 1-800-898-8042. For gas leaks, Chesapeake Utilities customers should call 1-800-427-2883.
3. What payment options are available?
Most utilities accept online payments, phone payments, automatic bank draft, or in-person payments at authorized centers.
4. Can I choose my energy supplier in Delaware?
Yes. Delaware is an energy deregulated state, allowing businesses and residents to shop for electricity and natural gas suppliers. The local utility still delivers the energy, but you can compare supply rates to save money.
5. What should I do if I have a billing dispute?
Contact customer service directly. If unresolved, customers can reach out to the Delaware Public Service Commission for assistance with complaints.
Why Understanding Delaware Utilities Matters
Whether you are moving into a new home, starting a business, or simply trying to lower your energy bills, knowing your Delaware utilities is important. Delmarva Power and Chesapeake Utilities are the primary providers, but municipal utilities also serve specific areas. Businesses in particular should compare supply rates to keep utility costs as low as possible.
