The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has sided with Delaware in agreeing to review the cost-sharing plan for a new transmission line across Delaware Bay.
New Jersey-based power grid manager PJM is upgrading its power lines that span nuclear facilities on Artificial Island in the bay.
In August, Gov. Jack Markell wrote to FERC that little of the savings from the upgrades would hit home for locals, while Delmarva Power users would have to shoulder $100 million of the project's cost.
In a ruling this week, FERC agreed to look into an "alternative allocation" to protect Delawareans and Eastern Shore residents from a disproportionate electric rate increase as a result of the project.
In a statement, Markell calls the decision "sensible," adding that he looks forward to working with regulators on a "more just sharing of these costs."