# Rhode Island PUC Approves Winter Electric Bill Relief

The Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission (PUC) has approved a **$28 million** emergency relief plan initiated by Governor Dan McKee to reduce residential electricity bills during the winter of 2027. This initiative is part of broader energy affordability measures that, combined with additional hold-harmless credits, will provide over **$100 in relief per household** across three winter months, benefiting more than 450,000 customers statewide. The total direct energy bill support from this and related programs approaches **$200 million**. This action reflects a significant state-level investment in energy cost mitigation ahead of the 2027 winter season.

- **Why this matters:** Procurement professionals and contractors in energy services, utility management, and customer assistance programs should note the scale and timing of this relief funding as it may drive demand for related services and technology solutions.
- The Rhode Island PUC and associated state agencies such as the Office of Energy Resources and Division of Public Utilities and Carriers are key stakeholders managing this initiative.
- Organizations involved in energy billing systems, customer outreach, and program administration may find opportunities to support implementation and compliance efforts.
- This relief program underscores the importance of state-level emergency energy affordability measures and may influence procurement planning for similar initiatives in other jurisdictions.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Energy & Utilities
**Topics:** Grants & Funding
**Published:** September 25, 2026

### Government Entities
- Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission (PUC)
- Office of Energy Resources
- Division of Public Utilities and Carriers
- Rhode Island Energy

### Key Quotes
> I’ve said for years that energy affordability is one of my top priorities, and that I will use every tool available to lower costs for Rhode Islanders.
> — Governor Dan McKee

### Sources
- [PUC Approves Governor McKee’s $28 Million in Winter Electric Bill Relief | Governor's Office, State of Rhode Island](https://governor.ri.gov/press-releases/puc-approves-governor-mckees-28-million-winter-electric-bill-relief) - RI
- [SPANISH TRANSLATION: La PUC aprueba el plan de 28 millones de dólares del gobernador McKee para aliviar las facturas de electricidad en invierno | Governor's Office, State of Rhode Island](https://governor.ri.gov/node/12356) - RI