House Republican Press Release

November 22, 2006

Press Office: 860-240-8700

Harkins Outraged at United Illuminating Rate Hike on Power Consumers

HARTFORD- Representative John Harkins (R-Stratford) today expressed outrage to news that United Illuminating would increase their generation rates to residential consumers by over 30%, and over 50% for businesses.  The rate hike would take effect in January of 2007. United Illuminating serves communities on the southwestern shoreline area of the Connecticut, including Stratford.

 “This massive rate increase is shocking and unacceptable,” said Harkins.  “These astounding rates will be an incredible burden on residents and businesses.  There is a very significant threat to the economy and homeowners of the state due to these increases.  The majority in the legislature had an opportunity to act on out-of-control energy costs last session, and have refused to take up a special session on the issue.  As we can all now see, their inaction has a massive price tag.”

An administrative hearing on the new rates with the Department of Public Utility Control is currently scheduled for November 29^th, where public input will be received. A final decision will be rendered on December 8^th.

Last year United Illuminating requested a rate increase of 9%.  The Department of Public Utility Control cut the request to 4.3%.  Harkins said he would urge the DPUC and Governor Rell to take action in reducing the request once again this year. 

“An increase of this magnitude can strangle a family budget, and can literally be the difference between a business remaining in Connecticut, or leaving the state for cheaper energy costs,” said Harkins.  “The legislature needs to act on this issue immediately, or further rate increases will result.”