In the 1970s, said Barrett, "the DPU revieweved itself as pro-consumer" and attentive to the prevention of "sudden rate shock" like that facing Cambridge residents now. Yet in recent years the department has used "abstract economic decision-making" which has resulted in a system of charging lower rates for those who consume the most, he said.
Lowest Rates in Mass.
CELCO representatives at the hearing noted that the people of Cambridge now pay the lowest electricity rates in Massachussetts.
Councillor William H. Walsh noted the lack of incentive for the utility company to follow the Council's exhortations, but the Council called upon the "good will" of the company towards the community.
But Councillor Alice K. Wolf cited the need for reciprocity between the city and the electric company. "They need to use our roadways," said the Councillor, "so they need a good relation with the city as well."
Arguing that "it's no skin off their backs" how the rates are structured, Wolf said she saw no reason for the utility company not to comply with the Council's request.