AARPRI Opposes 24% Electric Rate Hikes

Outrageous increase would disproportionately hurt older Rhode Islanders this winter

As Rhode Islanders brace for another cold season, they’re also preparing for a lump of coal in their stockings courtesy of National Grid, who is seeking an outrageous 24% electric rate increase.

If the Public Utilities Commission approves the proposal, the new electric rates would go into effect on January 1, 2015, and remain in place until June 30. The average Rhode Islander would see their bill skyrocket from $88 to a whopping $109 per month.

AARP is fighting to make sure Rhode Islanders pay only what’s fair and reasonable for reliable utility service.

“Such a large electric rate increase will especially burden older Rhode Islanders and their families this winter, many of whom are living on fixed incomes,” said AARP Rhode Island President Alan Neville. “AARP urges the Public Utility Commission to reject this excessive and unreasonable increase.”

National Grid has about 486,0000 customers in Rhode Island and is the state’s main utility company.

 

AARP letter submitted to RI Public Utilities Commission 12/16/14

 

December 16, 2014

Ms. Luly Massaro
Commission Clerk
Public Utilities Commission
89 Jefferson Boulevard
Warwick, RI 02888
Re: Docket No. 4393

Dear Ms. Massaro,

AARP Rhode Island writes to urge the RI Public Utilities Commission to reject the 24% National Grid increase. This outrageous increase would disproportionately hurt older Rhode Islanders this winter.

If the Public Utilities Commission approves the proposal, the new electric rates would go into effect on January 1, 2015, and remain in place until June 30. The average Rhode Islander would see their bill skyrocket from $88 to a whopping $109 per month.

AARP Rhode Island believes that protecting this vulnerable population is critical. We cannot neglect the dilemma faced by those whose means have been exceeded by the ever-rising cost of fuel and electricity.

Respectfully submitted,

 

 

Kathleen Connell
State Director
AARP Rhode Island

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