OLR Bill Analysis

sSB 777

AN ACT CONCERNING MODIFICATIONS TO THE PURCHASED GAS ADJUSTMENT CLAUSE.

SUMMARY:

This bill modifies hearing requirements for three utility rate adjustment mechanisms. By law, the Department of Public Utility Control (DPUC) can adopt mechanisms to adjust electric and gas rates between rate cases to reflect changes in specific costs. Two mechanisms (the energy adjustment and transmission rate adjustment clauses) apply to electric rates. The purchased gas adjustment clause applies to gas rates.

Under current law, DPUC must hold a hearing on each of these clauses at least once every six months or when it considers a hearing necessary. The bill instead requires DPUC to hold a hearing on the purchased gas and energy adjustment clauses at least annually rather than once every six months. It also requires DPUC to hold a hearing on all three mechanisms at the request of the Office of Consumer Counsel, which represents ratepayers in DPUC proceedings. The bill continues to require DPUC to hold a hearing when it considers it necessary.

EFFECTIVE DATE: Upon passage

COMMITTEE ACTION

Energy and Technology Committee

Joint Favorable