Comprehensive Energy Strategy For Connecticut Is The Right Call

 By State Representative Elaine O’Brien (D-East Granby/Suffield/Windsor)

 The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environment Protection (DEEP) is currently in the process of developing what has been labeled-the first ever Comprehensive Energy Strategy for our state. The challenge is to assess energy issues that affect our businesses, industry and residential users.

 The development of a comprehensive strategy plan for energy is the result of legislation that was passed earlier this year requiring DEEP to undertake the task and to prepare a plan every three years.

 Governor Dannel P. Malloy recently unveiled his draft proposal that he said “will create jobs, give residents and businesses more choice about the fuels they use for heat and power, lower energy costs and better protect the environment and natural resources.”

 We need to develop a comprehensive plan for energy use and conservation so that our businesses can compete and create the jobs that we badly need in order to ensure we have a growing state economy.  Our families and business for too long have been saddled by high energy costs and working to cut those costs has to be a majority priority for all policy makers.

 The Governor outlined a strategy that considers the use of an increase in the supply of low cost domestic natural gas for those who can take advantage of it. For others, he said the state must be committed to help with efficiency programs that will lead to lower energy costs.

 The strategies that are being offered are for now a draft for public dialogue about what is best for Connecticut.

 It’s important to note that DEEP has scheduled a series of technical and public hearings on a draft plan that will lead to the creation of a final plan. The dates and times for those hearings are available on DEEP’s website. The public can present any testimony and ask staff about any matters concerning the creation of the comprehensive energy plan. DEEP can be contacted at deep.webmaster@ct.gov for any information.

 The creation of a comprehensive energy plan for our state cannot come soon enough.