Hull Light Files Petition with MA DPU
On Monday, November 1st Hull Light filed a petition with the MA Department of Public Utilities (MA DPU) to open an investigation into the manner in which National Grid has managed the two electric lines that feed the 10,000 residents and business in the Town of Hull. For many years the lack of care and failure of National Grid to upgrade the two 1930 era lines has caused great distress and harm residents and businesses of Hull. When residents loose power a cascading series of impacts occur, including creating serious threats to life and safety.
National Grid has a monopoly for the provision of this service with a substantial guaranteed rate of return for the Company. In exchange for the monopoly status there is an expectation and requirement electric service will be reliable. The filing requests MA DPU initiate a full investigation regarding National Grid failure to follow good utility standards in maintaining the two lines.
The petition requests MA DPU to order National Grid to upgrade the lines and associated facilities at National Grid’s expense. Additional, the petition requests National Grid be ordered to reimburse Hull Light $3.1 million dollars Hull Light has expended to protect residents and businesses from National Grid’s failure to exercise proper care for the lines. Expense reimbursement includes the cost Hull Light has made and continues to make to have generators during winter months because of the precarious nature of National Grids electric supply lines to Hull.
The filling includes expert testimony from qualified professionals in regulatory affairs, Paul Hibbard, former Chair of the MA DPU, and engineering expertise, Tom Converse with over 35 years of experience with public power line design and construction. Additional testimony is provided by Hull Light Operations Manager Panos Tokadjian and Town Manager Phil Lemnios.