Attorney General Tong knows we pay far too much for our energy here in Connecticut, and we need to get these costs under control. Over the past four years, he has intervened aggressively in every proceeding before the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority to drive down these expenses. This resulted in a series of major settlements returning millions of dollars to ratepayers and stabilizing supply rates.
United Illuminating: In March 2021, Attorney General Tong brokered agreement with United Illuminating to provide a $46.5 million COVID relief bill credit and to decrease and stabilize electric rates into 2023.
Eversource accountability plan: In October 2021, Attorney General Tong announced agreement between state and Eversource to increase accountability and control and return $103.4 million back to Connecticut families following deficiencies in the utility’s response to Isaias. Agreement also stabilizes electric distribution rates until at least January 2024.
Yankee Gas/Eversource: In July 2022, Attorney General Tong announced a $1.8 million settlement with Eversource over alleged false and deceptive high-pressure tactics seeking to entice customers to convert to natural gas.
Comcast: When Comcast announced plans to implement an ill-timed data cap and surcharge during the height of the pandemic, Attorney General Tong pushed back. As a result, Comcast indefinitely postponed implementation of the cap in Connecticut, protecting families from unfair fees in place elsewhere in the country.
Frontier: In August 2022, Attorney General William Tong announced a settlement with Frontier Communications worth over $60 million to dramatically expand access to high-speed internet for Frontier customers in economically distressed communities, end a hidden monthly $6.99 internet surcharge, and force significant improvements in Frontier’s marketing and customer service.
Altice Optimum: Following nearly 500 consumer complaints regarding slow internet speeds, hidden fees, and unacceptable technical support, Attorney General Tong launched an investigation into Altice Optimum in November 2022. That investigation is active and ongoing.
These settlements provide important relief, but Connecticut families need better – more reliable service and relief from skyrocketing supply rates.