Rhode Islanders voice concerns over energy rate hikes set to start in October

September 16, 2022 5:18 am

Cori Dubois,

People are seen at a Public Utilities Commission holding signs to protest against gas and electric rate hikes, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2022. (WLNE)

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Public Utilities Commission held a public meeting Friday morning to discuss energy rate hikes for gas and electric bills that are set to start in October.

According to the Public Utilities Commission, Rhode Islanders will see an average net monthly increase of $50 to their electric bill and more that a $200 annual hike in gas rates.

“This rate increase will result in increased homeless, and people dying,” Donnie Anderson, a Providence resident says during public comment of the PUC hearing, urging the Commission to reject proposed rate hikes.

Rep. David Morales emphasized, “This will lead to an increase into utility shutoff.”

Gov. Dan McKee also took the podium, saying these rate hikes will slow down economic recovery coming out of the pandemic.

Last month, McKee announced a plan for nearly $4 million in funding for more than 39,000 low income Rhode Islanders to help them with their electricity bills this winter.