News Summary

The Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities has ordered major gas utility companies to reduce customer bills by at least 5% for March and April due to rising costs and complaints from residents. With many experiencing significant bill hikes this winter, Eversource plans to implement a 10% reduction, providing additional relief. However, customers should be prepared for potential increases later in the year, as some deferred charges will affect bills from May to October. The DPU aims to address the broader affordability issues impacting residents across the state.

Massachusetts Gas Utility Companies Ordered to Lower Bills by 5% Amid Rising Customer Rates

Boston, MA

In an exciting turn of events for residents across Massachusetts, the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) has stepped in to help alleviate the burden of rising gas bills. After months of complaints about increases that have reached unsustainable levels, the DPU has mandated that the five major gas utility companies in the state reduce their customer bills by at least 5% for the months of March and April. This decision comes as a breath of fresh air for many, considering the looming costs that have hit wallets hard this winter.

So, what sparked this intervention? Well, there have been numerous reports indicating that bills have surged substantially, primarily due to increased supply costs, the recovery of hefty programmatic expenses, and let’s not forget, a particularly chilly winter. People have been feeling the pinch like never before, and local politicians, including the Governor, have been vocal about the need for relief.

The utilities impacted by this order include familiar names such as The Berkshire Gas Company, Boston Gas Company, National Grid, Eversource, NSTAR Gas Company, Fitchburg Gas and Electric Light Company, and Liberty Utilities. The reduction is aimed at tackling the significant bills that have left many residents scratching their heads and searching for hidden pennies in their couches.

With this DPU order in place, customers can expect to see some relief right away. But wait, there’s more! Eversource has taken it a step further by proposing to cut rates by a generous 10% for March and April, even though the DPU’s request was only for a 5% decrease. For those using Eversource, the average reduction is projected to be about $33.75 in March and $19.71 in April. National Grid customers could potentially see an average reduction of around $40 off their monthly bills.

It is important to note that February will not see any cuts since the new rates won’t apply retroactively. In fact, many are still reeling after Eversource reported increases of up to 27% this winter alone, a hike that homeowners felt significantly due to the cold climate driving usage up. Delivery charges have soared by a staggering 27%, leaving the average delivery fee at around $240, which is twice as much as supply costs.

While this news may sound good, there is a catch. Both Eversource and National Grid are deferring some charges from the winter months, meaning that customers may see an increase of about $11 on their bills from May through October once these cuts take effect.

To ease the stress, both companies are not just sitting idle. They have resources in place, including payment plans and financial assistance, specifically designed to support customers who are struggling with these inflated costs. The aim is to ensure that no one gets left behind during these chilly months of financial worry.

Massachusetts officials understand that these rising costs aren’t just affecting utility bills; they are a part of a wider issue of affordability, as everyday goods also continue to climb in price. The DPU is actively exploring options to shift certain delivery costs to warmer months, offering year-round relief for customers.

In conclusion, while the gas bills have been causing quite the uproar, strides are being made to lessen the burden on Massachusetts residents. With a few changes on the horizon, customers can look forward to some better days ahead when it comes to their utility expenses. So, hang in there, everyone! Relief is on the way.