In the heart of Middletown, Rhode Island, the Town Council convened on October 6, 2025, to address pressing energy concerns that could significantly impact local residents. The meeting, held under the warm glow of city hall lights, focused on the contentious issue surrounding the Old Mill Lane gasification plant and the potential moratorium on new gas connections proposed by the state’s energy siting board.

Council members expressed strong opposition to the moratorium, which they believe would unfairly burden the communities of Middletown, Portsmouth, and Newport. The council highlighted that the moratorium could lead to increased costs for residents, estimating that new gas connections could add up to $52,000 per household and raise energy bills by as much as 25%. This concern was underscored by the council's commitment to ensuring energy affordability, particularly for lower-income households.

The discussion revealed a broader context of energy security and environmental responsibility. The council pointed out that while there is a growing need to transition away from fossil fuels, the proposed moratorium seemed to disproportionately affect those at the end of the gas supply line, without addressing the infrastructure needs of the entire state. The chairperson of the energy siting board's approach was described as a "blunt instrument" that fails to consider the unique circumstances of local communities.

In a show of solidarity, the council decided to draft a resolution opposing the moratorium, aligning with similar actions taken by Portsmouth. Newport has yet to take a stance, but the council hopes to influence their decision in the coming weeks. The urgency of the matter was palpable, as council members recognized the need to advocate for their residents and ensure that energy costs do not escalate further due to inadequate infrastructure investments.

As the meeting concluded, the council's resolve to protect the interests of Middletown's residents was clear. They are poised to engage with state legislators in November, aiming to address these critical energy issues and advocate for a more equitable approach to energy distribution and costs. The outcome of this ongoing dialogue will be crucial for the future energy landscape of Aquidneck Island and its residents.