Happy Tuesday! We have 73, 987 signers! This is my 34th update. In 2 days, I will be at the LOB fighting for all of you signers but you must engage in action also.
This link provided by Yankee Institute will simply send a premade message to the Energy and Technology Committe in support of SB-647. You can add your own message in addition to the prepopulated message or simply sign your name and hit send message. Let your voice be heard. The link explains what is at stake to get SB-647 out of committee.
To see people's written testimony, please click here Many who hit oppose were thinking support. This is what you want to do - support SB-647 - its all good! They know what your mean.
The Case for SB-647: Market-Driven Energy Reform for Connecticut
Connecticut residents and businesses face some of the highest electricity costs in the nation due to excessive regulations, costly subsidies, and inefficient policies. SB-647 offers a market-driven solution that reduces consumer costs, eliminates unnecessary red tape, and restores competition in the energy sector. Unlike other proposals that rely on rate hikes and government expansion, SB-647 shifts costs away from consumers, promotes energy choice, and prioritizes affordability.
Lowering Energy Costs
SB-647 focuses on reducing costs without burdening ratepayers. It removes surcharges like the 1-mill per kilowatt-hour charge funding the Clean Energy Fund and restructures the System Benefits Charge (SBC), shifting funding from ratepayers to the state’s General Fund. These changes ensure continued support for low-income assistance and efficiency programs while lowering electricity bills.
Additionally, the bill limits long-term electricity contracts to 150% of wholesale prices, preventing energy providers from locking consumers into inflated rates.
Restoring Competition and Oversight
Connecticut’s energy market suffers from excessive government intervention. SB-647 restores the independence of the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA), separating it from the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) to ensure fair rate oversight. It also eliminates state mandates requiring electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in schools and public buildings, allowing businesses and consumers to determine the best energy solutions rather than being forced into costly government-driven programs.
Recognizing Nuclear Power as a Key Energy Source
SB-647 reclassifies nuclear power as a Class I renewable energy source, acknowledging its role in providing stable, carbon-free electricity. Unlike wind and solar, which require costly backup systems, nuclear energy offers a reliable power supply. This shift will attract investment in nuclear energy and strengthen Connecticut’s energy security while reducing dependence on expensive and intermittent alternatives.
Cutting Wasteful Spending
By eliminating subsidies for EV rebates, heat pump incentives, and other politically motivated programs, SB-647 redirects resources toward cost-effective energy efficiency initiatives. This ensures that energy policy prioritizes consumer benefits rather than selective industry interests.
A Smarter Energy Future
SB-647 prioritizes affordability, competition, and regulatory reform, offering a sustainable path to lower energy costs and economic growth. Unlike alternative proposals that expand government control and raise rates, this bill leverages market forces to benefit all Connecticut residents and businesses. Lawmakers should support SB-647 as a step toward a more competitive, consumer-friendly energy landscape.
Instructions in the links to join or write your own testimony is in my last update here.
~scott