Connecticut’s chief consumer advocate is going to court to force state regulators to review Hartford-based Northeast Utilities’ proposed $4.66 billion purchase of a Massachusetts power company, The Associated Press reports.
The Office of Consumer Counsel said Thursday that it is filing an appeal at Superior Court, challenging the Department of Public Utility Control’s June 1 decision declining to review the deal between the Hartford-based utility and NStar.
The consumer agency says a review by Connecticut authorities is necessary to ensure that ratepayers continue to receive safe, reliable service and a share of the economic benefits from the merger.
A DPUC spokesman would not comment. The agency has said its authority to intervene is not necessary because it would continue to regulate NU if the deal is ultimately approved by Massachusetts officials.
