Anderson, Republicans Unveil Proposals to Lower Energy Costs
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Hartford – State Rep. Mark Anderson has joined Connecticut Republicans in calling for lower energy costs. The legislative proposals are designed to create both short- and long-term relief for ratepayers Additionally, the package ensures strong oversight of utility companies to protect the best interest of ratepayers.
“Ratepayers deserve immediate relief and a long-term plan that combats continuous rate increases,” said Anderson. “Realigning the regulatory authority that oversees rate increases and operations of the utility as an independent entity is critical in protecting consumer interest.”
The proposals detailed by Senate and House Republicans include:
- Moving charges resulting from public policy decisions from ratepayer bills to the state budget. (estimated savings: $362 million annually)
- Bringing all clean energy sources into the state’s green energy strategy by adding nuclear power and all sources of hydro power to the state’s Renewable Portfolio Standard program.
- Improving the Standard Service Procurement process by examining the differing ways CT’s large utilities, small municipal owned utilities, and other states all procure power.
- Restoring independence to utility rate regulators by separating PURA from DEEP.
- Giving PURA more discretion and flexibility in decoupling to protect ratepayers.
- Establishing utility rate case oversight to ensure that resolutions of rate cases and settlements are made in the best interest of ratepayers and not for other political considerations.
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