Resident Commissioner Pablo José Hernández announced on March 25 that he has joined two members of Congress to co-sponsor the H.R. 7977 – Energy Bills Relief Act. The legislation, led by Representatives Sean Casten and Mike Levin, aims to reduce energy bills through expanding clean energy and introducing consumer protection measures.
The bill is supported by more than 120 members of Congress and proposes several initiatives. These include restoring tax credits for clean energy and efficiency improvements, providing financial assistance to help families pay their utility bills, investigating and preventing unjustified electricity rate increases, expanding aid programs for home repairs related to electricity use, and including Puerto Rico and other territories in federal funding programs for renewable energy projects.
“While the government of the PNP fights among themselves, we are focused on what matters to people, which is lowering the electric bill,” Hernández said.
Hernández said that this legislation is part of a broader effort to lower the cost of living in Puerto Rico. He highlighted its importance given Puerto Rico’s reliance on oil for power generation and an outdated electrical system that contributes to high utility costs.
The inclusion of Puerto Rico in federal financing programs could allow investment in battery storage systems, grid modernization—including microgrids—and training for local workers. These measures are intended not only to provide immediate relief but also support long-term improvements in the island’s energy infrastructure.
