Amid spike in utility costs, CT’s U.S. House delegation urges PURA to lower costs for consumers

Connecticut’s U.S. House delegation is urging state regulatory agency leaders to reconsider the “sharp increase” in rates putting pressure on Connecticut residents and small businesses, according to the delegation.

The delegation consists of U.S. Reps. Joe Courtney, John B. Larson, Rosa DeLauro, Jim Himes, and Jahana Hayes, according to a release, who sent a letter to the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority.

“Although as federal Representatives we do not have any formal role in the process of setting rates or in the oversight of utility companies, we have all heard from numerous constituents and businesses that are experiencing significant increases in bills in the wake of the recently implemented Rate Adjustment,” the members wrote.

“For this reason, we strongly support the motion to reconsider and believe that PURA should consider alternative strategies for meeting the state and utility providers’ statutory and financial obligations that do not unduly burden ratepayers, especially in the historically high-usage summer months.”

While rate setting power resides in Connecticut’s state government, through PURA, according the statement, the delegation also is working with the federal government to help ease costs and provide relief to consumers.

“We have diligently advocated for and secured increased funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) above initial request from the Executive Branch, regardless of which party controlled the White House,” the members continued. “We also secured new renewable energy funding and tax credits for Connecticut households and businesses as part of the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). The IRA created historic rebate programs that can help homeowners save money on home improvements that lower energy bills as well as tax credits for installation of energy efficient heat pumps and weatherization improvements.”