HARTFORD, Conn — As energy bills are climbing, so too our customers' frustrations and worries.
FOX61 has been speaking with lawmakers this week, who say they're working on long-term solutions.
Connecticut State Senate Republican Leader, Sen. Stephen Harding, has called for a special session saying, "This is an emergency."
Gov. Ned Lamont stated, "(The) legislature is coming into session in six months."
That's time that many struggling families do not have to wait. FOX61 has received countless emails and phone calls from residents who say they simply can’t afford the increased bills. So, what can you do in the meantime? Eversource recommends taking efforts to conserve energy, since your energy usage will ultimately determine how much you’ll pay.
This includes actions like adjusting fridge and freezer temperatures, using energy-efficient light bulbs, unplugging electronics when you're not using and opting for a fan over A/C if the weather allows it.
Customers can also look for lower energy rates through third-party energy suppliers by heading to energizect.com.
There are additional payment plans offered through utility companies for those who financially need to space out payments in order to keep their electricity on.
State Sen. Norm Needleman, co-chair of the energy committee, explained the importance of exploring options to avoid service shut-off.
“Work with the utility and the social service department if you’re really a low-income family and you need some help; social service departments are there to help," said Needleman. "Make sure that you don’t lose electricity during the summer because it can be life-threatening, especially if you’re older or have little kids,” he added.
For Eversource customers, “All residential customers with active service qualify for flexible payment plans of up to 18 months to pay a past due balance.”
Those who miss payments and subsequently have service shut off will have to verify financial hardship and enroll in a payment plan.
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Kaelee Collins is a multimedia journalist for FOX61 News. She can be reached at kcollins@fox61.com. Follow her on X, and Instagram.
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