Thank you for the opportunity to provide testimony on SB 1293 or the An Act Requiring a Study of Electric Utilities. My name is Meghan Portfolio, and I am the Manager of Research and Analysis for Yankee Institute, a non-profit public policy organization dedicated to empowering Connecticut residents to forge a better future for themselves and their families.
This legislation charges the Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection to conduct a study concerning operations, reliability, rates and regulatory oversight of electric utilities in the state. Yankee Institute offers the following recommendations to be included in this study:
Comprehensive Notification Requirements
Require Utilities to notify customers about upcoming PURA meetings and decisions that could affect their rates. Notifications should appear on both mailed and online billing statements, and utilities should send email alerts to ensure customers are informed in a timely manner.
Enhanced Communication Strategies
Require PURA to expand its outreach efforts , particularly when rate hikes are on the table, by utilizing multiple communication channels, including social media, email updates, and public announcements. Proactive communication would ensure that ratepayers are not only aware of proceedings but also feel encouraged to participate.
Explanation of the Combined Public Benefits
Require that any bill sent to an end use customer of any electric distribution company contain a full and easily understood explanation of any cost that constitutes a portion of the “Combined Public Benefits Charge.” Transparency in the regulatory process is crucial, so consumers understand their bills and aren’t blindsided by rate hikes. Giving the public a clear explanation of PURA’s decisions and advance notice of potential increases would ensure greater accountability and prevent bureaucratic decisions from catching ratepayers off guard.
