Connecticut Faces a Pivotal Moment in Energy Policy Heading into 2026

Pullman & Comley Energy Attorneys Lee D. Hoffman and Kathryn E. Boucher authored the Hartford Business Journal article "Expert's Corner: Connecticut Faces a Pivotal Moment in Energy Policy Heading into 2026,” covering Connecticut’s mounting energy challenges and outlining a path forward as the state approaches a critical reset in energy policy. The article explores rising electricity demand, ambitious decarbonization goals, and the pressures on the regional grid, noting that “Connecticut had the third-highest average electricity price in the country at 30.48 cents per kilowatt-hour, behind only Hawaii and California.” They argue that without bold regulatory and policy reforms, the state risks continued paralysis at a time when major infrastructure investments are unavoidable.

Lee and Kate emphasize the need to incentivize utilities to become true partners in advancing energy initiatives, reset the relationship between utilities and regulators amid changes at the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority, and move beyond incrementalism in favor of decisive action. They warn that “incrementalism has gotten us where we are today, with high costs, consumer outrage and frustration for businesses,” and stress that “finding a way to positively involve our utilities in the process must be prioritized by regulators and policymakers.” They point to other states’ streamlined permitting and pro-business energy policies as models, urging Connecticut to send an equally strong signal that it is “open for business” when it comes to clean energy development.

Looking ahead, Lee and Kate write that Connecticut has a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” to hit the reset button, stressing that the state can no longer afford more of the same and calling on policymakers and regulators to take bold steps now to secure a reliable, affordable, and low-carbon energy future.

To read the full article, please visit the Hartford Business Journal website.