PUC Considering Cuts to R.I. Energy’s Efficiency Programs

WARWICK, R.I.— Is it time for the state to cut its energy-efficiency programs?

That’s the question state utility regulators are considering as the year draws to a close. Rhode Island Energy, the main utility company and sole administrator of the programs, says it’s time to cut the budget and “right-size” the amount of money Rhode Islanders are charged.

Environmental groups and advocates, however, including the state council on energy-efficiency programs, say it’s not the time to downsize key initiatives that let Rhode Islanders use less energy and save money.

Those benefits have a direct dollar amount, both in Rhode Island and around the country. Collectively, state-level energy-efficiency programs in New England between 2012 and 2023 have delivered $55 billion in benefits to families and businesses, with a return of $3.40 in benefits for every dollar invested, according to a study completed earlier this year by the Acadia Center.

“How I describe the programs to ratepayers and customers, is that while it shows up as a line item on their utility bills, efficiency helps them reduce the other items on the bill,” said Emily Koo, Rhode Island program director for the Acadia Center. “That includes supply, transmission, and distribution charges.”

Rhode Island Energy’s proposed cuts have been opposed by the Acadia Center, multiple elected officials in the General Assembly, and Providence Mayor Brett Smiley.

To read the full article from ecoRI, click here.