United Illuminating, which provides service to Easton, is proposing an eight percent rate increase each year for the next three years.
On Thursday, March 16, our State Senator, Tony Hwang, will moderate an informational forum to discuss the status of UI’s rate increase request and explain how ratepayers can voice concerns. He will also share federal, state and local resources, as well as supportive services, for residents unable to afford the recent rate hikes.
Representatives from the state's Office of Consumer Counsel, AARP CT, and the Alliance for Community Empowerment will also be there to provide info on the rate process and available energy assistance programs.
The forum will be held from 6 to 8 pm at the Fairfield Board of Education, 501 Kings Highway Cutoff in Fairfield. You can reach out to Peggy Tibbals at 1-800-842-2021 or Peggy.Tibbals@cga.ct.gov for more info, and it is suggested to register for the forum on Eventbrite to ensure seating.
“This forum will be of interest to seniors on fixed income as well as anyone who has been impacted by the infuriating utility costs in Fairfield, Easton, Trumbull and Bridgeport, who are sick and tired of rate hikes,” Hwang said in the event release. “This informational forum will help people to understand that they can make an impact and be heard on lowering UI electric rates to state regulators if they speak out. Ratepayers’ voices need to be heard, we want to help anyone who is struggling to pay their bills so please spread the word and join us. It will also provide supplemental utility resources and supportive services for residents in economic distress.”
Concerned citizens can also send a brief email to the Public Utility Regulatory Authority to express those concerns. You can email PURA.ExecutiveSecretary@ct.gov and Tony.Hwang@cga.ct.gov prior to March 23 with the subject line "Say No to UI Rate Hikes" and give your name and town and reference Docket No. 22-08-08 in the body.