Republicans Call for Special Session on Electric Rates, offer proposals for long-term relief
In response to the recent, substantial rate hikes on energy bills statewide, I joined my Republican colleagues for a news conference yesterday to call for a special legislative session to tackle not only the sudden significant increase in electricity bills but also the perpetually high electric rates in Connecticut.
In February, Republican legislators warned of the impending increase, due in part from a nearly 4-year shutoff moratorium, and called on Governor Lamont to take a more aggressive role in bringing together lawmakers, utility companies, and government regulators to develop a reasonable state strategy on energy.
Yesterday, we reiterated the need to provide rate relief to customers who for years have been frustrated by costly bills that are squeezing their personal finances.
The proposals outlined Thursday would:
- Cover the portion of rate increases associated the moratorium on electric service shutoffs by reallocating remaining end-of-year American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, and examining budgetary options that could make available as much as $1 billion.
- Redefine Class I renewable energy sources to include all forms of hydropower and all nuclear power to lower the cost of these energy sources.
- Separate the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA)
- Limit all future Power Purchase Agreements so that no contract can be for more than 150% over the wholesale electric market price.
- Study moving public policy charges off ratepayer bills and into the budget.