Posted on June 28, 2022
NEWTOWN– To better inform people on understanding their electricity bills, State Representative Mitch Bolinsky (R-106) hosted a workshop in conjunction with PURA at the Newtown Senior Center this week.
Rep. Bolinsky was joined by Connecticut’s Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) Chairman Marissa Gillett and Legislative Director, Taren O’Connor, for the first in a series of events called “Learn How to Lower Your Electric Bill.” Attendees were encouraged to bring their electric bills as the specialists walked them through various cost-reduction strategies.
“I’m pleased we were able to bring rate specialists in to assist residents in understanding their energy costs and how to manage them,” Rep. Bolinsky said. “I remain committed to finding ways to reduce cost through conservation, technology advancements and clean energy sources on the local and state level.”
Connecticut’s Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) specialists discussed what their agency does. PURA walks a tightrope, advocating for both ratepayers and electric companies using cases/dockets.
Commissioner Gillett talked to folks about how to advocate for themselves, personal testimony sent to PURA (in reference to a docket number if possible) is used as “evidence” and the more stories gathered is helpful for PURA to get the picture of how certain policies and practices are affecting ratepayers. Bolinsky stressed the importance of original testimony and advised participants to watch for docket requests from his office on matters of local importance.
Also mentioned was Energize CT – the state program available to homeowners that can lower energy consumption by providing home energy audits, adding solar, battery storage, etc.
Additionally, PURA warned of possible scam calls being made by callers claiming to be from Eversource, demanding immediate cash/money order/gift card payments to avoid being “shut-off”. PURA advised to always call Eversource if you’re unsure a call is legitimate, saying “Eversource will never ask you to pay in in ways like that.” They also warned of door-to-door salesmen; for switching to third-party suppliers.
###