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In a move to improve consumer protections and ensure fair treatment for ratepayers, the North Carolina Public Utility Commission (NC PUC) has announced new regulations for public utilities operating in the state. The regulations, which were unanimously approved by the commission, aim to create a more transparent and accountable regulatory framework for the state’s utility providers.One of the key provisions of the new regulations is the establishment of a Consumer Advocacy Division within the NC PUC. This division will be tasked with representing the interests of residential and small business consumers in regulatory proceedings, ensuring that their voices are heard and their concerns are taken into account when decisions are being made that impact their utility services.Additionally, the regulations will require public utilities to provide more detailed information to consumers about their rates, fees, and charges. This includes giving customers access to information about how their bills are calculated, as well as providing them with options for managing and reducing their energy usage.Another important aspect of the new regulations is the requirement for public utilities to submit regular reports on their financial performance and service quality to the NC PUC. This will help the commission to monitor the performance of utility providers and take action if they are not meeting the standards set by the regulatory body.In a statement announcing the new regulations, NC PUC Chairman Sarah Thomas emphasized the importance of ensuring that consumers are protected and treated fairly by utility providers. She stated, “These new regulations are a significant step towards creating a more equitable and transparent regulatory framework for public utilities in North Carolina. We are committed to holding utility providers accountable and ensuring that consumers have access to affordable, reliable, and high-quality utility services.”The new regulations will go into effect immediately, with public utilities required to comply with the new requirements within the next six months. The NC PUC will also be conducting regular audits and inspections to ensure that utility providers are complying with the new regulations and meeting the needs of consumers in the state.