STATEMENT: CTLCV Support of PURA Leadership

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Statement: CTLCV Supports a PURA Leader that Holds CT Utilities Accountable
“The upcoming vote to confirm Marissa Gillett’s reappointment as Commissioner of the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) is critical to maintaining accountability and oversight in Connecticut’s energy policies. PURA exists to protect Connecticut ratepayers, hold utilities accountable, and advance the state’s environmental and public health goals. As stated on its website, PURA is committed to ensuring that “utilities provide safe, clean, reliable, and affordable utility service and infrastructure.” Gillett has effectively upheld these principles, making her the target of efforts by utility companies to discredit her leadership. Removing a commissioner focused on the state’s clean energy and environmental goals weakens PURA’s ability to fulfill its mission and puts corporate profits over public well-being.

Under Gillett’s leadership, PURA has delivered real results. Energy efficiencyand renewable energy programs, funded by the Public Benefits Charge, have driven down emissions, reduced hospital stays and illnesses, and saved Connecticut between $218 and $494 million in public health costs (according to the CT Green Bank’s Annual Report). These programs help residents, schools, and businesses cut energy waste, lower bills, and build a more sustainable future. They are also critical for advancing environmental justice by ensuring that low-income and historically marginalized communities benefit from cleaner air, healthier homes, and lower energy costs.

A confirmation vote against Marissa Gillett is a vote against ratepayers. If the utilities succeed in dismantling PURA’s ability to regulate effectively, they will be in charge of Connecticut’s environmental future. That means higher costs, fewer consumer protections, and policies that prioritize profit over people & planet. PURA is working as intended. The fact that utilities are fighting this system so aggressively is proof that it is working.

Connecticut cannot afford to let the fox guard the henhouse. Our energy and climate future depends on maintaining strong, independent oversight, not caving to corporate pressure. We strongly support Marissa Gillett as a diligent and effective leader at the helm of PURA.”

Lori Brown, CTLCV Executive Director 

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The CT League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) is a nonpartisan statewide organization dedicated to protecting Connecticut's environment.  CTLCV works to pass equitable and sustainable legislation that impacts our air, land, water, wildlife, and climate and holds all state legislators accountable with an annual Environmental Scorecard. Visit ctlcv.org for more information on CTLCV.

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