Raimondo, McKee Call for Passage of Bill to Hold National Grid More Accountable

Governor Gina Raimondo and Lieutenant Governor Dan McKee called for the passage of legislation that would give the state tools necessary to demand better accountability from National Grid.

“Earlier this year, this community was shaken by an unexpected gas outage during one of the coldest weeks of the year. While we cannot always anticipate an emergency situation, we must ensure our utilities are adequately prepared, and we must have the ability to hold them accountable. This bill holds National Grid to the same standards as our neighboring states and gives us the tools to enforce strong protections for Rhode Islanders in the event of an emergency,” said Raimondo.

Raimondo, McKee and other officials gathered in Newport to support the legislation following the multi-day natural gas service interruption on Aquidneck Island in January that left thousands without heat.

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An investigation into that incident is being conducted by the Division of Public Utilities and Carriers.

The Division will issue a report on its findings once the investigation is complete.

National Grid responds 

National Grid released the following statement: 

“We already have in place detailed Emergency Response Plans (ERPs) for our natural gas and electric businesses in Rhode Island, which contain the pertinent elements the Lieutenant Governor proposes in his legislation, as part of our standard operating procedures here in the state.  Throughout the year, we conduct training, exercises, and drills to evaluate the effectiveness of our ERPs as well as review and update the plans each year.  Prior to and during any major weather events, we provide the Division of Public Utilities and Carriers and other state agencies details about our preparations, additional crews secured, and our restoration efforts in real time.  The safety of our customers and employees is at the forefront of all we do.  Our plans reflect and reinforce our commitment to our customers and the communities we serve and enhance our ability to provide safe and reliable energy services.”

The Legislation

Legislation pending before the House and Senate requires National Grid to file comprehensive emergency preparedness plans each year and brings Rhode Island law in line with the laws of neighboring states.

“Extended power outages are a public safety issue and an economic issue that we must begin to address proactively here in Rhode Island. The Utility Service Restoration Act gives us the tools to hold utility companies to reasonable preparedness and response standards that several nearby states are already using to prevent outages and protect residents,” said McKee.

The bill also enables the State to levy fines if a utility fails to comply with standards and establishes that such fines be paid by the utility’s shareholders and not passed on to ratepayers. 

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