CT SB00469

Public Utilities Regulatory Authority chairperson shall conduct a study on industry-specific performance standards for electric distribution companies during emergencies affecting more than 10% of customers for over 48 consecutive hours.

Study shall examine minimum staffing and equipment levels for each electric distribution company based on customer numbers and infrastructure type needed for emergency response.

Study shall review current service restoration practices including damage assessments, restoration management, regional aid contracts, vulnerable customer plans, customer communication policies, and coordination with telecommunications and cable providers.

Study shall analyze infrastructure adequacy, standard industry practices for operation and maintenance, and equipment replacement availability during emergencies.

Study shall examine staffing and equipment levels from January 1, 1990 to present, distinguishing between line crew workers directly employed in-state, directly employed out-of-state, and contractors or subcontractors.

Results must be reported to the joint standing committee on energy and technology by January 1, 2020.