Not everyone is affected by the recent increase in electricity rates.
Municipal electricity companies are not regulated by the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority and thus do not have to carry the public benefits charges.
The means people in Wallingford, covered by one of six public electric companies, aren’t impacted by the same July 1 hike that has Eversource and United Illuminating upset.
“The last time we checked, we’re actually, by a small amount, the least electric rates in the state,” Wallingford Public Utilities Director Rick Hendershot said.
Even before the July 1 rate change for Eversource and UI, Wallingford’s rate was significantly lower – Rep. Mary Mushinsky, (D, Wallingford), estimates usually 30% to 40% lower.
“I’m glad I live in Wallingford,” she said.
But why?
Experts and lawmakers have different ideas on the reasons and what lessons the state may be able to learn.
Hendershot said the main reason is because the Wallingford Electric Division is part of the town, not …