Fed Lawmakers To CT Regulators: 'Reconsider Sharp Increase In Rates'

U.S. Rep Joe Courtney Tuesday said he and the rest of Connecticut's U.S. House delegation are urging state utility regulators to "lower costs for consumers," and "reconsider the sharp increase in (energy) rates that is putting pressure on Connecticut's workers, families, and small businesses."

This weekend, Courtney (2nd District), along with U.S. Reps. John B. Larson (1st District), Rosa DeLauro (3rd District), Jim Himes (4th District), and Jahana Hayes (5th District) sent a letter to the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority in support of the General Assembly Committee on Energy and Technology's motion to reconsider that was submitted last week.

Courtney said the lawmakers' letter came after hearing "concerns" from constituents across the state.

"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 House 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."

Courtney said that, while the rate-setting authority resides "firmly" in Connecticut's state government, the House members are "working at the federal level" to lower energy costs and provide "relief" to consumers facing high bills.
 

"We have diligently advocated for and secured increased funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (also known as LIHEAP) above an initial request from the Executive Branch, regardless of which party controlled the White House," the House members wrote. "We also secured new renewable energy funding and tax credits for Connecticut households and businesses as part of the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act.

"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."

To read the letter lawmakers sent to PURA, click here.

To learn more about energy cost savings available through the Inflation Reduction Act, click here.