Bill > SB00084

This bill proposes four significant changes to energy regulations in Connecticut. First, it would eliminate the "Combined Public Benefits Charge" from consumer electric bills, which would potentially reduce electricity costs for residents and businesses. Second, the bill expands the definition of "Class I renewable energy source" to include electricity generated from hydropower and nuclear power facilities, which could broaden the types of energy sources considered renewable. Third, the bill restricts power purchase agreements by prohibiting the Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection or electric distribution companies from entering into agreements where electricity prices exceed 150% of the wholesale electricity price, which aims to protect consumers from potentially high energy costs. Lastly, the bill would administratively separate the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) from the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, potentially changing the organizational structure and oversight of utility regulations in the state. These changes collectively seek to modify energy pricing, renewable energy definitions, and regulatory structures to potentially lower electricity costs and expand renewable energy classification.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=SB00084&which_year=2025