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The Systems Benefits Charge offers the best path to reducing energy costs.

The Systems Benefits Charge is a portion of your electric bill that funds essential programs for energy efficiency, renewable energy, and other systems benefits. It keeps our electric grid running smoothly, cuts air pollution and saves money.  

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Since its inception, renewable energy programs funded by the Systems Benefits Charge have lowered energy burdens for more than 63,300 families and 8,125 businesses.  

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For each kilowatt hour of energy used: 

  • 1/10th of 1 cent goes to renewable energy programs, and  

  • 6/10ths of 1 cent go to energy efficiency programs that reduce costs for Connecticut residents—programs you may qualify for!  

 

These investments save ratepayers far more than they cost. Every dollar invested in energy efficiency generates $3.00 in benefits. In 2024 alone, these programs resulted in $39.4 million in energy savings.  

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In 2024, energy efficiency programs saved enough energy to power 31,528 homes for a year. 

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Act now to ask your legislators to protect the systems benefits charge, the best way for CT families to save on their electric bills long-term. 

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Solar Panel Array
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Houses with Solar Panels
Houses with Solar Panels

What's at Risk:

Legislation has been proposed this session that claims it will lower energy bills but would instead dismantle funding for energy efficiency and clean energy programs.  This legislation would: 

  • Destabilize clean energy funding by replacing the Systems Benefits Charge with a politically controlled green bond fund, making long-term investments in efficiency and renewables vulnerable to annual budget fights. 

  • Crowd out investment in renewables by adding existing nuclear power to the definition of class 1 renewables. This diverts money meant to support new clean energy projects toward subsidizing existing nuclear plants like Millstone. 

 

Join organizations like People's Action for Clean Energy and Efficiency for All in helping businesses and families save money by improving the energy efficiency of their homes and offices

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