Eversource Seeks Rate Hike to Cover Storm Damage Costs in Connecticut

Connecticut’s largest electric utility has asked the state for permission to charge ratepayers for the more than $150 million it has spent to repair damage caused by five major storms over the past two years.

Eversource spokesman Mitch Gross told the Hartford Courant the storms required the utility to hire out-of-state repair crews, replace damaged equipment and poles, and pay additional fuel and police costs.

The rate request filed with the state Public Utilities Regulatory Authority is scheduled for public hearings on Feb. 5 and 6. A final decision is tentatively expected April 4. If approved, they would take effect May 1.

Gross says if approved, the average customer’s bill would increase by about $1.85 per month for six years.

Eversource serves about 1.2 million electric customers in 149 Connecticut cities and towns.

Information from: Hartford Courant