Senator Tony Hwang Highlights Efforts to Reduce Utility Costs and Deliver Relief to Connecticut Families

HARTFORD, CT – With Connecticut families and small businesses burdened by skyrocketing energy bills, Senator Tony Hwang (R-28th Senate District) is championing bold leadership solutions to address energy affordability. Today, he joined Senate and House Republicans to re-introduce legislative proposals designed to deliver relief and long-term energy stability for ratepayers.

“As a former Vice Chairman of the Energy and Technology Committee, I understand the complexities of our energy systems and the structural challenges driving costs,” Senator Hwang stated. “But understanding isn’t enough. Action is required. Connecticut residents cannot afford to wait. We need courageous leadership to stand up, bring transparency, and enact structural reforms that prioritize consumers over inefficiency and unaffordable rising costs.”

A Framework for Relief

Senator Hwang emphasized that the unveiled proposals are the result of listening to constituents, collaborating with experts, and striving for bipartisan solutions. Key components include:

• Eliminating the “Public Benefits Charge” on electric bills to provide direct consumer savings and move necessary policy costs to budgetary appropriation.
• Capping long-term energy purchase prices to prevent unchecked costs, especially on renewable energy.
• Expanding the definition of renewable energy to include nuclear and hydropower, ensuring a balanced, sustainable energy mix.
• Separating the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) from the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) to enhance consumer-focused regulation.
• Reforming incentive programs to ensure fairness and avoid unnecessary cost increases, including reevaluating the electric vehicle rebate program.
• Appointing consumer-focused PURA commissioners to advocate for affordability and accountability.

Leading with Transparency and Accountability

Senator Hwang highlighted the urgency of addressing systemic flaws in the state’s energy framework. “Energy affordability isn’t a partisan issue – it’s a human one. Families across Connecticut are struggling to keep the lights on and businesses are fighting to stay competitive. Blame doesn’t solve problems; solutions do. This plan lays out actionable, transparent steps to provide relief and build a more sustainable energy future.”

He reiterated the importance of needed bipartisan cooperation, urging lawmakers across the aisle to unite in the interest of all Connecticut residents. “This is about ensuring a stable, affordable energy future for every family and business in our state. That requires transparency, accountability, and the courage to challenge the status quo.”

By focusing on consumer-first solutions, Senator Hwang continues to stand as a leader committed to creating a Connecticut where families can thrive and businesses can succeed, free from the growing burden of energy costs.