Eversource Seeks Proposed Electric Rate Increase of Up to 18%
Eversource is asking Connecticut regulators to approve an annual increase of $727 million in electric distribution revenue — a change that could raise the typical residential customer's total bill by about 18%. The request has not been approved.
Eversource is asking Connecticut regulators to approve an annual increase of $727 million in electric distribution revenue. The company says the proposal could raise the total bill for a typical residential customer by about 18%.
The request concerns the cost of delivering electricity through poles, wires and substations. It is under review by the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) in Docket No. 26-05-10 and has not been approved.
If PURA approves the request, the proposed rates would take effect July 1, 2027. The date and amount could change as regulators review the case.
Public Hearings Still Scheduled
PURA is holding a series of public hearings to allow Connecticut residents to comment on the proposal. The New Britain hearing took place November 9.
The remaining public hearings are November 16 at 5:30 p.m. at The Red Barn at Mitchell College, 629-A Montauk Avenue, New London; November 23 at 5:30 p.m. at Ives Concert Hall at Western Connecticut State University, 181 White Street, Danbury; and December 9 at noon through Zoom.
Registration is required for the virtual December 9 hearing. The registration link is: ctdeep.zoom.us/meeting/register/ooBYaXdqRQy9DElAsFoBPw#/registration
What This Means for Connecticut Customers
The proposed increase applies to the distribution portion of the electric bill — the charge for maintaining the physical infrastructure that delivers power to homes and businesses. It does not cover the supply cost of electricity itself.
Connecticut already has some of the highest electricity rates in the continental United States. An 18% increase in the distribution charge would add to a cost burden that state officials and consumer advocates have been working to address through bond financing and other measures.
The Connecticut Attorney General has issued a statement on Eversource’s rate request. The proposed increase has not been approved, and PURA’s review process allows for public input before any decision is made.
The New England Voice will continue following this case and reporting on how the outcome could affect Connecticut households.
Sources: WFSB, proposed increase, estimated bill impact, effective date and hearing schedule; Connecticut Attorney General, statement on Eversource’s rate request.