PURA To Hold Public Hearings On Proposed Aquarion Rate Hike In CT

CONNECTICUT — The Public Utilities Regulatory Authority is looking for public comment regarding a requested water rate increase currently under its review.

The Aquarion Water Company of Connecticut filed its request on Aug. 29. The utility is proposing a rate increase of $49.9 million, or 25.2 percent above current rates. To the average Aquarion customer, this would equate to an approximate monthly bill increase of $4.25, according to a statement from Claire Coleman, consumer counsel for the State of Connecticut.

PURA will convene three live public comment hearings at which Aquarion customers will be able to voice their opinions on the proposed rate hike:

• Sept. 8, 2022 at 5.30 p.m. at Westport Town Hall (In-person hearing)
• Oct. 6, 2022 at 5.30 p.m. (remote teleconference via Zoom)
• Oct. 25, 2022 at 7.00 p.m. (remote teleconference via Zoom)

OCC is encouraging all Aquarion customers to participate and provide their perspective on the proposed rate increase, quality of service, and other relevant topics. Customers may also submit public comment in writing via e-mail to Pura.ExecutiveSecretary@ct.gov referencing Docket No. 22-07-01. All public comments, both live and in writing, will become an official part of the record and assist OCC, PURA, and other stakeholders in reviewing Aquarion’s rate application.