Michelle L. Cook

I am sure we share the same concerns about Eversource and United Illuminating, the state's two main electric distribution companies, which both filed for new standard service supply rates with the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) that will increase rates by approximately 40%.

Once approved by PURA, these new rates will go into effect from January 1, 2023, through the first six months of the year.

This is unwanted news at the start of the holiday season, especially as Eversource and United Illuminating enjoy historic profits amid increasing electric generation rates, customers experiencing economic hardships and a global energy crisis due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which has impacted the natural gas supply. Nearly half of New England's electric generating capacity uses natural gas as its primary fuel, according to ISO New England, which operates the region's power grid. 

Lawmakers will soon be called into special session, so we can work on legislation ensuring adequate funding for the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP), which provides winter heating cost assistance to income-eligible households, regardless of their heat source.

 

I am sure we share the same concerns about Eversource and United Illuminating, the state's two main electric distribution companies, which both filed for new standard service supply rates with the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) that will increase rates by approximately 40%.