AARP VT Reaction to Public Service Board Ruling on MOU

Press Statement:

AARP is pleased with the Vermont Public Service Board’s ruling today requiring further review and public hearings to examine the actual facts, assumptions and analyses supporting the recently announced agreement between Vermont Gas Systems (VGS) and the Department of Public Service (DPS). The Board agreed with AARP that it is in the public’s interest that both the company and DPS prove there is a positive impact on both Vermonters broadly and VGS ratepayers specifically. In winning this ruling, AARP applauds the Board’s action to uphold a fair and transparent review process of an agreement that was reached behind closed doors.

Today’s ruling is a win for ratepayers and anyone interested in open government and utility regulation. It confirms AARP’s strong belief that Vermonters would be best served by a consumer advocacy unit that is more independent and solely driven by a mission to ensure fairness in all matters concerning our public utilities.
--Greg Marchildon, AARP Vermont State Director