Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority Delays Electric Vehicle Charging Pilot Programs

On June 9th, the Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) finalized its investigation of time of day (TOD) rates for charging electric vehicles, as required by the Legislature last year. The objective was to determine the best method for directing electric vehicle owners to charge their vehicles during “off peak” hours – when electricity demand and prices are lower – to minimize stress on the electrical grid and the need for expansion of the system. 

PURA concluded that implementation of electric vehicle-specific TOD rates was too costly and difficult to institute, but that TOD rates applied to all power used by homes would be sufficient for current and potential EV drivers. However, currently the Connecticut Light and Power Company (CL&P) has only 0.04% of its customers on TOU rates. To help increase TOU rate adoption, PURA is requiring CL&P to review its current rates, as the price differential was insignificant compared to those of other companies.

 

In response Mark Kresowik, Eastern Region Deputy Director for the Sierra Club, stated:

 

“Deploying more electric vehicles powered by clean energy will save money, create jobs, and help meet Connecticut’s climate protection goals. PURA’s decision is disappointing, as it lacks pilot programs to test different pricing methods. While we agree that price differences between on-peak and off-peak power should be markedly different in order to help customers use power during non-peak times, PURA’s decision just kicks that can down the road.

 

Exploring the economic and behavioral difference between electric vehicle specific and nonspecific TOD rates could provide the state with essential information on how to best assist utilities and customers.  PURA should also require electric companies to similarly revisit rates for workplace charging, not just homes.”