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08/20/2015 12:01 AM

Representative MacLachlan Attends Ceremonial Signing of Variable Rates Bill, Shared Clean Energy Pilot Program


State Representative Jesse MacLachlan (R-35), Governor Dannel P. Malloy, Lieutenant Governor Nancy Wyman, and members of the Energy and Technology Committee recently attended a ceremonial bill signing for two laws that will protect energy consumers in the state of Connecticut.

Killngworth State Representative Jesse MacLachlan, a member of the Energy and Technology Committee, recently attended a ceremonial bill signing for a law that will prohibit electric companies from offering variable rate electric contracts. During the 2015 legislative session, MacLachlan was instrumental in advocating for the passage of this bill.

Consumers can choose to take the standard offer from Eversource or United Illuminating, or they can choose among rates on the retail market. Retailers were previously able to provide consumers with options including a variable rate contract. With the signing of this bill, retailers are no longer able to offer these rates as of Thursday, Oct. 1.

Legislators have repeatedly heard complaints from consumers being locked into a contract without realizing the implications, and in turn were left no choice but to deal with an incredibly high electric cost.

A bill was also signed to establish a pilot program to develope shared clean energy facilities. These facilities will allow energy customers to subscribe for a percentage interest in the total amount of electricity produced or set amount of electricity produced.

MacLachlan represents the 35th district covering Clinton, Westbrook, and Killingworth.