Conn. fuel affordability report to be released

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) -- Operation Fuel is releasing its annual report on the energy affordability problem facing Connecticut's low- and moderate-income families, as well as senior citizens.

The report is scheduled to be unveiled on Thursday at the Legislative Office Building in Hartford.

Officials at Operation Fuel, a statewide fuel assistance program, said there continues to be a significant gap between what lower income households pay for energy bills and what they can actually afford. The group estimates one in five households can't afford their energy bill.

Connecticut has one of the highest electrical rates in the U.S., in addition to high costs for home heating oil and natural gas.

Operation Fuel predicts an extensive need for winter emergency energy assistance this season.