Blumenthal Issues Statement on PURA Draft Decision to Increase CL&P Fixed Charge

(Hartford, CT) - U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) issued the following statement today in response to the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority’s draft decision granting Connecticut Light and Power an over 20 percent increase in its fixed charge, while also providing the public utility a more than 9 percent guaranteed rate of return.

“This draft decision is unconscionable and unacceptable, granting CL&P a more than 20 percent increase in its fixed rate charge in defiance of the sustained, broad public outcry from consumers.  A fixed charge of $19.25—with signals for future increases—would make CL&P’s residential charge the highest in New England. This fee would hit consumers before they even turn on a single light, discouraging and devaluing conservation and efficiency efforts. Connecticut residents—most notably low-income and elderly residents—cannot afford and should not be asked to finance a nine percent-plus guaranteed rate of return for CL&P,” Blumenthal said.