Sen. Kissel Votes In Favor of Energy Reform

“I heard the residents of north-central Connecticut loud and clear.”

Sen. John A. Kissel on Oct. 1 voted in favor of legislation aimed at creating a performance-based system for utilities that would hold the companies accountable, determine rates, and help protect customers during long-term outages.

“My constituents spoke with one, loud voice, especially after the rates went up,” said Sen. Kissel, who is employed by Eversource.  “They spoke out about the one-two punch between the rate increase and the storm.  In their many emails and phone calls to my office, they said they wanted more accountability. This legislation delivers that accountability, so I voted ‘yes’.  I always represent my constituents to the best of my ability.  This legislation will better protect Connecticut ratepayers. I heard the residents of north-central Connecticut loud and clear. It is an honor to be their voice in the State Senate.”

The legislation directs state regulators to investigate and develop a system of “performance-based ratemaking” that would measure electric companies’ ability to meet customer needs, like reliability, cost and emergency response. Regulators would use that system to evaluate requests for rate increases and determine reasonable rates of return for utility companies.

The bill now awaits the governor’s signature.

Sen. Kissel represents East Granby, Enfield, Granby, Somers, Suffield, Windsor and Windsor Locks.