With electric rates a continuing focus of consumer attention, the role of the state’s Public Utility Regulatory Authority (PURA) will be described at the New Canaan Men’s Club June 9th meeting.
PURA Director Thomas Lopez will discuss the agency’s mission and a residential rate program that enables residential solar customers the opportunity to sell energy and renewable energy certificates for a 20-year term, part of a state effort promoting conservation measures.
The Men’s Club meeting will be at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church beginning at 10 a.m. with Lopez beginning his remarks around 10:40 a.m., following the business portion of the meeting.
Aside from the electric utilities, PURA also regulates gas utilities, water companies, wired phone service companies and cable television.
Formerly known as the Public Utilities Commission, rapidly rising electric rates made the agency the focus of the gubernatorial campaign in 1974 when Ella Grasso was elected. She proposed a series of legislative reforms, renaming the agency as the Public Utilities Control Authority and called for a new slate of commissioners with backgrounds in law, economics and other disciplines. It also led to the appointment of a consumer representative to be appointed for utility matters.
The club has openings for new members, men 55-years old and above. For information, email ncmens@ncmens.club.