Regulators Aim to Cut Back CL&P Rate Increase

In the weeks following one rate increase for Connecticut Light & Power customers, the utility company has proposed another hike, but state regulators are cutting back the second spike and aiming to save a total of $100 million.

CL&P’s latest request would increase flat fees on the homeowner’s average monthly bill from $16 to $25.50, but the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority slashed that hike to $19.50 in a draft decision released Monday.

A spokesperson for PURA said the decision would also help recover some previously approved cost increases associated with major storms in 2011 and 2012, such as Hurricane Irene and the snowstorm of October 2011.

The increase will still allow CL&P to make infrastructure and service upgrades, according to PURA, which said the hike is “necessary for safety, reliability and maintenance of the franchise.”

Additional increases will go toward improving system resiliency to help minimize customer outages and improve restoration times during severe weather events, according to PURA.

Overall, customers who use 700 kilowatt hours will see an average monthly increase of $7.12, PURA said.

"While we are still reviewing PURA’s draft decision on our rate case filing, we appreciate their careful and comprehensive review of the costs associated with providing safe, reliable power to our customers. It's important to note that there are significant expenses associated with running a large and complex electric system," CL&P spokesman Mitch Gross said in a statement Monday. "Over time, it's crucial that we continue making targeted investments in Connecticut's electric infrastructure. To that end, we are doing everything we can to secure the resources necessary to build and maintain an electric system that is stronger, more reliable and more efficient for our customers. This decision is a critical element of that effort."