The authority regulating utilities in the state of Connecticut is launching an investigation into Eversource’s rate increases.
The Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority said Wednesday that the leadership of the General Assembly Energy and Technology Committee and the legislative leadership as a whole sent a letter asking PURA to suspend the rate increases associated with the delivery charge of Eversource that went into effect on July 1.
Some Eversource customers concerned about their recent Eversource electric bill say it is the most they have been charged.
The company said a scorching summer is one of the main reasons why people pay more for electricity. They say it is largely being powered by people who use more electricity with more people working from home and people who turn on the air conditioning.
“We understand and appreciate the efforts voiced by our legislators to address customer concerns about high law. We have recently received a copy of the letter from the Energy and Technology Committee and are reviewing it. We will consider each and every one of the options we may have, “an Eversource spokesperson said Wednesday.
The company previously explained what delivery costs mean to customers.
“First of all, there is money for us, so we can continue to provide you with a robust and reliable power system. Part of that, those delivery system charges, goes to us so that we can do the job that we have to do. In addition to that, there are state programs. There are taxes, both at the state and federal levels. There are all kinds of fees built into that side of the bill, “Eversource spokesman Mitch Gross said.
As of July 1, some of those delivery items increased. Those include charges Eversource is transferring, including what’s called the Non-Skippable Federal Congestion Charge that nearly doubled to about three cents per kilowatt-hour.
Eversource offers a paid program to go to your home and evaluate areas to make it more energy efficient.
The company said delivery rates are based largely on usage, as well as taxes and fees.
Eversource said the rate increased primarily due to payments associated with the state-approved power purchase agreements for the Millstone Nuclear Power Plant. They say those agreements were signed as a result of the legislation.
All changes are approved by state regulators.
“No adjustment can be made to your bill without the review and approval of state regulators, the Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority. We must execute everything for them before you see any changes to your bill, “Gross said.
PURA said it accepted the letter from lawmakers as a formal motion for reconsideration and that it “hopes to issue an expedited decision on the motion after considering comments received by other interested parties and members of the public.”
PURA is urging Connecticut residents to contact their utility company if they need assistance with their electric bills to see if they are eligible for a financial hardship protection program or to enroll in a COVID-19 payment program
Customers can also contact PURA consumer services representatives with questions or complaints, which will be part of the open investigation.
You can contact the PURA Education and Extension Unit by phone at 1-800-382-4586 or by email at [email protected].
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