When Northeast Utilities established a post-storm fund to compensate customers after lengthy power outages earlier this month, it was $10 million. After an outcry that the fund was too small, the company upped the total to $30 million in an announcement on Tuesday.
"As we heard from our customers and had discussions with Governor Malloy and his staff, it became clear that the original sum we proposed, $10 million, was insufficient," said Charles W. Shivery, chairman, president and chief executive officer of NU, in a news release. "While this storm was unprecedented, we set very high expectations for the performance of Connecticut Light and Power. Clearly, we did not meet a number of those expectations."
With the new fund, any residential customer who was without power after noon on Saturday, Nov. 5, is eligible for a credit on their CL&P bill of between $100 and $200, depending on how many people apply.
Foodshare, Operation Fuel and the Connecticut Food Bank will also receive donations from the fund. Each will initially receive $1 million, though the total donated could reach $5 million.
The fund will open next Wednesday, Dec. 7. According to the release, CL&P will begin contacting customers who are eligible for the credit, but customers can also apply for the credit at the company's website or by calling 888-566-9257. Applications are due by Jan. 31 at 5 p.m. and credits will be applied to the February bill.
