Raised Bill No. 7206 proposes significant amendments to the procedures and requirements governing the Connecticut Siting Council and the Office of Consumer Counsel. Notably, the bill includes the Consumer Counsel as a party in proceedings that could substantially affect electric rates and mandates that applicants for certain facilities notify stakeholders if they hire a communicator lobbyist. The definition of parties involved in certification or amendment proceedings is expanded to include domestic or qualified nonprofit corporations focused on environmental and consumer interests, and it allows for the grouping of parties and intervenors with similar interests. Additionally, the bill enhances the role of the Office of Consumer Counsel, enabling it to participate in regulatory and judicial proceedings that impact consumer interests related to public service companies.

The bill also introduces new requirements for electric transmission facility applications, including detailed studies of alternative solutions, the use of electric grid-enhancing technology, and comprehensive analyses of the impact on service rates. It prohibits electric and gas companies from recovering costs associated with lobbying, advertising, and certain board expenses through customer rates, while requiring detailed reporting of these costs. Furthermore, the bill mandates that companies disclose whether advertising costs are covered by shareholders or customers and emphasizes the need for public engagement by the Consumer Counsel. The effective date for these changes is set for October 1, 2025, aiming to enhance transparency and accountability in utility financial practices and ensure consumer interests are adequately represented.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 16-50n, 16-50l, 16-19d, 16-243gg