Rep. Zawistowski Advocates for Legislation Exempting Certain Facilities from the Natural Gas Demand Use Charge
HARTFORD – State Representative Tami Zawistowski (R-61) joined Rev. Bridget Fidler and Gerry LaPlante of First Church Congregational of Suffield and Rev. Tom Carr and David Battle from Second Baptist Church of Suffield to testify in support of HB 5181 ‘An Act Exempting Certain Facilities from the Natural Gas Demand Use Charge’ before the Energy and Technology Committee on February, 21st.
Demand charges differ from rates charged for actual natural gas usage. They are based on the maximum 24 hour usage over a period of 12 months – and can vary from year to year based on that period’s lowest temperature. These special rates apply to commercial and industrial customers which have fairly consistent demand, while houses of worship may only have one day a week – usually on a weekend – where the main areas are heated. Most of these facilities rely on donations from membership and other fundraisers to stay in operation – but they are still charged for gas as if they were an ongoing business.
“Demand Fees are unjust, because they require houses of worship to pay thousands of dollars every year for no actual gas delivery,” testified First Church of Christ Rev. Bridget Fidler. “In 2018 our church paid $6500 in Demand Fees alone.”
She also noted that relief from the demand charge would help free up additional funds to assist those in need. “In 2018, through our missional resources we gave out over $1600 in food and gas cards through my Minister’s Discretionary Fund alone, the church paid almost $1900 in rent and utilities assistance.”
Rep. Zawistowski commented, “This is a fairness issue. Houses of worship throughout our state are being charged for gas they do not actually use. This add-on fee based on the coldest day of the year diverts funds that can be used to support charitable works undertaken by these organizations. They are not asking for a lower price for gas, just relief from the unfair demand charge.”
Rep. Zawistowski introduced a similar bill HB 5477 ‘An Act Exempting Certain Facilities Owned by Nonprofit Organizations from the Natural Gas Demand Use Charge’ and has co-sponsored the legislation alongside Rep. Arthur O’Neill and Sen. Eric Berthel.
To learn more or to track this legislation visit the General Assembly’s website www.cga.ct.gov.