The New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission (PUC) does not stand for the consumer and needs to be overhauled. I ask that our legislature investigate the decisions of the PUC over the years and consider the following facts:

1. Approved the Fairpoint buy out of Verizon despite warnings that Fairpoint is under funded, over leveraged, and therefore unable to expand broadband to unserved rural areas especially the north country. Additionally, Fairpoint has NO system for handling wholesale sales of services. This means the only way to get DSL is to have Fairpoint as your provider, limiting choice and competition. (Fair disclosure, my company sells DSL and is unable to sign new customers since Fairpoint took over).
financial challenges
CWA Union worried
Fairpoint Pledges To Violate Net Neutrality
Lost $10 Million in 1st Quarter

2. High Electricity Rates - Our PUC has allowed us to have a cost of Electricity among the highest in the country.
See Gov Study

3. High Water Costs - Where I live in Barnstead the water company asked for a 300% increase in water rates and was granted more than a doubling of the rate on a temporary basis retroactive
Towns Brace for Increased Water Bills
Order Approving Temporary Rates

Among the many things that must change is the size of PUC. Currently there are only 3 commissioners. In order to ensure that our consumers needs are met this should be expanded and should include more than industry professionals. The commission should have at least 10 members and should include some town officials as well as some consumers. Another change needed is for the PUC to be an active player in our move towards green energy.

If the PUC cannot or will not begin to represent the consumer, let's eliminate or cut its budget. There is no need for a PUC that merely rubber stamps the requests of the utilities.

I urge all DFNH members to put the PUC at the top of their list of issues.

If you are concerned about broadband in New Hampshire or the PUC in general let State Senator Deb Reynolds know.