Eversource customers in Eastern Mass. could see a 23% increase in their electric bills come January

Lindsey Thorpe
·2 min read

Eversource is proposing a rate hike that could send electric bills in Massachusetts soaring and in some areas doubling once again.

The company said rates that would be in effect for the first six months of 2023 would increase the average customer’s monthly bill by 23% or about $46.66 a month in Eastern Mass. For perspective last winter the rate came in at 15.8 cents per kWh.

In Western Mass., bills would rise on average by $39.09 per month.

The increase is subject to approval as Eversource energy supply price rates change twice a year in Massachusetts, on January 1 and July 1.

“While adjustments to other components of the bill are also expected to take effect January 1, 2023, those changes are not yet final and rising supply costs will be the primary factor impacting customers’ total monthly bills,” Eversource said Friday.

The increase affects customers getting Eversource’s Basic Service Rate -  not those who get their electricity from a community aggregation program or a competitive supplier.

“As has been widely reported, energy costs continue to rise globally, with regional electric supply prices reaching all-time highs this year due to increased global demand for and the high cost of natural gas, world events, extreme weather, and other issues,” Eversource said.

This comes at a time of record high energy prices after National Grid customers saw an increase just go into effect at the start of November. Typical residential electric customers saw a 64% rate hike.

These 4 free devices from Mass Save could reduce your utility bills

Rising utility costs and new tax incentives are making solar power hot today

National Grid is sharing some of the following tips that can also ease the strain on your budget.

  • Clear areas in front of vents from furniture; blocked vents require up to 25 percent more energy to distribute air.

  • Use programmable thermostats to adjust heating when rooms are unoccupied (saving you energy and up to $180 a year)

  • Upgrade outdated heating to newer, more energy-efficient models (saving as much as 30 percent on energy costs in the long term).

Eversource is also passing along some steps you can take to try to save energy.

  • Keep the fireplace damper closed (when fire isn’t burning) to prevent warm air from escaping through chimney

  • Eliminate air leaks and drafts by weather stripping and air sealing

  • Open your blinds in the daytime to absorb the sun’s heat

Eversource is holding a webinar on December 16 at noon to help those who are having trouble paying their energy bills.

Anyone who needs help in Massachusetts is encouraged to sign up for a home energy assistance program. It is a free resource to help eligible households pay a portion of their winter heating bills.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW