Delaware to appeal cost of Artificial Island power line

State officials are asking federal regulators to reconsider a recent decision requiring Delaware electricity customers to cover the cost of installing a transmission line that Delaware officials say will largely benefit New Jersey residents.

Last month, in response to a complaint from Delaware officials, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission decided that Delaware’s residential and commercial electricity customers must bear the cost of the $272 million project connecting the Artificial Island nuclear complex to the state.

The News Journal of Wilmington reports that the Delaware’s Public Service Commission, along with Gov. Jack Markell and the state’s congressional delegation, last week submitted a formal request for a rehearing to argue their case again.

Delaware Public Service Commission Executive Director Bob Howatt says he hopes federal officials will announce their decision in late summer.