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DLC sign on the Nova Place building in Pittsburgh
Official company statement as of Oct. 1, 2026.

We are disappointed that we have been unable to reach an agreement despite presenting what we believe is an industry-leading offer for our employees. The company’s final offer includes wages that would rank among the most competitive in Pennsylvania, double-digit wage increases over the life of the contract, a commitment to hire 120 additional union positions and other significant enhancements designed to support our employees and their families.
 
We are also disappointed by recent public statements that call into question Duquesne Light Company’s commitment to safety and grid modernization. Those assertions do not reflect the nature of the conversations that have taken place at the bargaining table or the progress our teams, union and management have made together over the last several years. Through a sustained focus on workplace safety, the company has achieved a 75% improvement in key safety metrics, and we remain eager to discuss any specific safety proposals the union wishes to advance. 
 
Likewise, our continued investments in technology and infrastructure have helped deliver one of the most reliable electric systems in the state, with service reliability exceeding 99.6%. These investments are critical to keeping our employees safe, supporting our communities and meeting our customers’ expectations for dependable service.
 
As a result of the strike, we have activated our operational contingency plans to ensure safe, reliable and uninterrupted service continues, just as it has for more than 100 years. We are eager to continue negotiations with the goal of reaching a fair and balanced agreement. Throughout this process, we must also remain diligent in our delivery of safe, reliable and affordable service to the customers who depend on us every day.

Frequently Asked Questions

A work stoppage occurs when a bargaining unit and its employer are unable to reach an agreement on a contract and the impacted workers or their bargaining unit do not work past the existing contract, either due to a strike or a lockout. 

The contract between DLC and IBEW Local 29 expired on Sept. 30, 2026. There has not yet been an agreement on a new contract. 

Union negotiations are confidential. We are committed to fair, productive negotiations to reach a new agreement that’s reflective of business conditions and our commitment to safety, reliability and affordability.

While we’re not able to predict how long the stoppage will last, we are continuing to pursue a new contract agreement as quickly as possible. 

Yes, customer service and utility operations will continue as usual. Our Contact Center will remain open during normal business hours, and routine services and essential operational functions will continue uninterrupted. 

Our team is prepared and staffed accordingly should an unforeseen event occur, including severe weather. We are focused on keeping our customers safe and maintaining service at all times. 

IMPORTANT REMINDER
:
 Immediately report electrical emergencies such as downed wires by calling 888-393-7000.

All customers will continue to receive safe and reliable service. 

Yes, you can report an outage online, through our free mobile app or by calling 888-393-7000. Our online outage map will also remain active and accessible during the stoppage. 

We are prepared to safely address outages as quickly as possible, including during any severe weather events. Learn more about our restoration priorities. 

No, customers should not expect any impacts to their service as a direct result of the stoppage. 

Trained non-union employees and non-union contractors are filling in to perform union duties during the stoppage. 

Yes, contingent workers are properly trained and ready to perform critical work safely and efficiently. 

Customers can identify DLC workers by badges and properly marked vehicles. All contingent workers performing services have the training and experience to provide safe and reliable service during the stoppage. 

IMPORTANT REMINDERS
: DLC workers will NEVER ask for payment on the spot and will NEVER threaten service shutoff for non-payment without proper prior notice. We DO NOT ask customers to purchase any type of pre-paid cards. 

We also never make sales calls or sell products door to door, and rarely do we need to access the inside of a customer’s home unless it is scheduled in advance.

Learn more about how to avoid scams.

Yes, payment processes will not change, and customers are still expected to pay their electric bill on time. Payment assistance programs will remain available, as well as appropriate notices about non-payment. We will also continue to notify registered customers about outages, supplier services and more through My Alerts. 

Representatives are available to support customers during normal business hours. Residential customers can call 888-393-7100, and business/commercial customers can call 412-393-7300.