Sen. Formica, Lawmakers Conduct Review of Utility Storm Response

Energy & Technology Committee Co-Chair Senator Paul Formica (R-East Lyme), pictured with fellow co-chair Representative Lonnie Reed (D-Branford), on November 15 held an informational hearing to review the state utility companies’ response to last month’s storm that left many without power for multiple days.

The informational hearing at the Legislative Office Building included testimony from United Illuminating, Eversource, state officials, and representatives for the state’s municipal leaders.

“The intent of this hearing was to find out the extent of the problems energy customers faced following the October storm, and how our utilities are prepared to respond to these situations,” said Sen. Paul Formica. “It is our responsibility as lawmakers to revisit policies and procedures that guide storm response throughout the state, especially following a situation like the one many customers faced last month. Across our state power remained out for an extended period of time for many and others experienced concerning situations on state and local roadways. Today’s hearing was an informative meeting and I look forward to gathering more information to determine what steps utilities can take to better serve and protect residents. Utilities are required to report on their storm response to the state’s Public Utilities Regulatory Authority by tomorrow, and I look forward to the regulatory agency’s closer review of this information.”