House Republican Press Release

January 24, 2007

Press Office: 860-240-8700

REP. FREY SAYS PASS ENERGY BILLS NOW

Immediate Relief From Rising Electric Bills

HARTFORD – House Republican Whip John Frey today announced support for the call by Republican Leader Lawrence Cafero to provide immediate relief from rising electric bills.

Republicans said they have come to agreement with Democrats on a number of energy policy changes that include conservation and greater reliance on diversified fuels that will provide consumers much needed relief. But the failure to act after more than a year of work is apparently due to divisions among House Democrats and Senate Democrats.

Rep. Frey is calling for short- and long-term solutions which can be acted upon now:

· Conservation and efficiency tax exemptions would lead to less use;

· Expedited siting of distributed resources;

· Energy assistance programs.

Agreement on long-term solutions:

· Increased usage of renewable fuels such as solar, hydro and wind power which would lower our dependence on foreign oil;

· Funding natural gas and oil conservation;

· Allow for longer term contracts to stabilize lower wholesale prices.

The Governor called for a Special Session after the election and the Democrats said energy would be first actions taken during session. The Session began January 3^rd, it is now nearly three weeks later and the Energy and Technology Committee still has not raised a bill. Since the Governor’s call for a special session, Connecticut Light and Power (CL&P) and United Illuminating (UI) have seen large residential customer increases.

"Our constituents are demanding that the Legislature address spiraling energy costs," Rep. Frey said.  "Rather than try to approve one, massive omnibus bill, we should begin immediately by voting on the areas where there is agreement to give much-needed relief.  This has to be our number one priority.  It is simply time for action," Rep. Frey added.