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3/14/2018
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Sen. Morgan supports power company accountability
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HOUSE – Senator Elaine J. Morgan, (R-Dist. 34, Charlestown, Exeter, Hopkinton, Richmond, West Greenwich), today announced her support for Lt. Governor Dan McKee’s legislative package to improve utility companies’ storm response.
“In these last three nor’easters, thousands of Rhode Islanders were left without power, some for several days,” Morgan said. “These bills will go a long way in holding the utility companies accountable for restoring power as quickly as possible.”
Senate bill (2018-S 2326) would require electric and natural gas distribution companies doing business in Rhode Island to submit to the division of public utilities and carriers an emergency response plan for review and approval.
“It’s just common sense that companies like National Grid should have a plan like this on file,” Morgan said. “It is vital to public safety.”
The act would also authorize the assessment of monetary penalties to each investor-owned electric and gas distribution company when the company does not comply with the division's requirements for responding to and restoring utility service to customers.
Morgan also voiced her support for (2018-S 2332), which establishes minimum customer service requirements for power companies, including prompt installation of new service and service upgrades.
“Too often, utility companies come before the Commission of Public Utilities and ask for a rate increase…and what is that decision based on? This bill would tie their performance to whether or not they are rewarded with a rate increase,” Morgan said.
A third bill encourages choice among ratepayers when it comes to selecting power suppliers. Senate bill (2018-S 2330) would require the Public Utilities Commission to implement a purchase of receivables program where the electric distribution company purchases the receivables of a nonregulated power producer at a discount rate.
For more information, contact:
Katie Haughey Cardoza, Senate Minority Office
State House Room 20
Providence, RI 02903
(401) 222-2708
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