Kentucky commission would study ways to lower utility costs

The Public Service Commission must open one or more cases to study ways utilities could make service more affordable. The study covers utility service for people with low or fixed incomes. The cases must examine ways to protect customers from unpaid bills, late fees, and disconnections that could threaten their health or safety, and consider possible approaches such as rate changes and financial help. The resolution would take effect upon passage and the governor’s approval, or upon otherwise becoming law. The resolution would take effect upon passage and the governor’s approval, or upon otherwise becoming law.

The commission must invite and encourage utilities to join the cases and engage with affected communities and nonprofit advocacy groups. The utility invitation covers electric, water, and wastewater providers. The commission must seek broad participation in formal and informal proceedings to inform its recommendations; utilities are invited and encouraged to participate, not required to join.

The commission must report its findings and recommendations to the Legislative Research Commission. The report must summarize findings and recommendations from the commission’s cases. The report must identify specific steps the General Assembly, the commission, and utilities could take to address affordability and disconnections. The report is due no later than September 1, 2027.