Substitute Senate Bill No. 4, also known as Public Act No. 25-173, aims to improve energy affordability, access, and accountability in Connecticut by authorizing the State Bond Commission to issue bonds totaling up to $125 million for fiscal years 2026 and 2027. These funds will be used to reduce costs associated with hardship protection measures related to energy and to support electric vehicle charging programs. The bill also repeals and replaces section 16-244dd, allowing the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) to select entities for renewable energy programs and introduces a cap on expenses for electric vehicle charging stations, targeting assistance to low-income residents. Additionally, it mandates a review of winter shutoff protections for medically vulnerable customers and modifies notice requirements for service terminations due to nonpayment, ensuring customers receive at least thirteen days' notice.

The bill further enhances consumer protections by requiring electric distribution companies to compensate residential customers for prolonged outages and introduces new definitions and provisions related to renewable energy sources and electric vehicle infrastructure. It establishes a framework for the procurement of renewable energy, including a focus on zero-carbon sources, and mandates the development of thermal energy networks. The bill also addresses the management of stranded costs and the issuance of rate reduction bonds, ensuring that these financial mechanisms are effectively utilized. Overall, Substitute Senate Bill No. 4 seeks to streamline energy regulations, promote renewable energy initiatives, and enhance consumer protections while ensuring equitable access to energy resources.

Statutes affected:
Committee Bill: 16-32e, 16-32l, 16-32m
ET Joint Favorable Substitute: 16-32e, 16-32l, 16-32m
File No. 325: 16-32e, 16-32l, 16-32m
FIN Joint Favorable: 16-32e, 16-32l, 16-32m
APP Joint Favorable: 16-32e, 16-32l, 16-32m
Public Act No. 25-173: 16-244dd, 16-262d, 16-244z, 16-245e, 16-245g, 16-245i, 16-243n, 16-32e, 16-32l, 16-32m, 16-244m, 16-245a, 16-2, 16-2a, 16-6b