Brace Yourselves, Massachusetts: Eversource Electricity Rates Are Climbing

Eversource Energy customers in Massachusetts are about to see their electricity bills rise, as new rates are set to take effect on August 1, 2025. This upcoming increase will impact the “Basic Service” rate, which is the default supply charge for customers who don’t choose an alternative electricity supplier. Understanding the reasons behind this change, its impact on your wallet, and the available assistance programs is crucial for navigating this financial adjustment.

Why Are Eversource Rates Climbing?

Several factors are contributing to this upcoming increase in Eversource’s electricity rates. Primarily, higher energy supply costs are driving the change. Eversource purchases electricity in the wholesale market through competitive bids, and these procurement costs are directly impacted by geopolitical events, global demand for natural gas (a key fuel for power generation), and overall market volatility.

Additionally, infrastructure investments play a role. Eversource continually upgrades its electrical grid to enhance reliability, improve resilience against storms, and integrate new technologies. These necessary modernization efforts are reflected in delivery charges on customer bills.

Furthermore, a portion of the supply rate covers capacity market costs, which are payments to power plant owners to ensure sufficient generation is available to meet peak demand, especially during extreme weather conditions. These costs are determined through regional auctions and can fluctuate considerably.

Finally, Massachusetts’ ambitious clean energy goals require utilities to engage in renewable energy procurement, and while environmentally beneficial, the costs associated with developing and integrating these sources contribute to the overall electricity rates.

Ways to Compare Rates and Secure a Fixed-Rate Plan

Massachusetts consumers have several avenues available to explore competitive electricity rates and potentially lock in a fixed-rate plan to avoid Eversource’s Price to Compare fluctuations:

1. Explore the Energy Switch Massachusetts Website: The Energy Switch Massachusetts website operated by the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities offers a comprehensive marketplace with potentially hundreds of competing energy offers. While this provides a wide array of choices, navigating through numerous plans and determining the best supplier for your specific needs can sometimes feel overwhelming.
2. Simplify Your Search with ElectricityRates.com: ElectricityRates.com offers a secure, fast, and simple process designed to streamline your rate comparison experience. We present you with only the best rates from top-rated and trusted electricity suppliers serving Ohio, saving you time and effort in your search for the ideal plan.
3. Shop Directly Through Supplier Websites: You also have the option to visit individual energy suppliers’ websites. However, keep in mind that you will only see the plans offered by that specific supplier, requiring you to visit multiple websites to get a broader view of the competitive landscape.

Financial Assistance for Massachusetts Residents

Eversource, along with various state and federal programs, offers a range of financial assistance options to help customers who may face hardship due to rising electricity costs. If you’re struggling to pay your bill, don’t hesitate to explore these resources:

• Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): This federal program provides eligible low-income households with a one-time grant to help with heating bills during the winter and may also offer assistance for cooling in the summer. Eligibility is based on household income and size.
• Good Neighbor Energy Fund: Administered by the Salvation Army, this fund provides energy assistance to individuals and families facing temporary financial difficulties who do not qualify for other state or federal assistance programs.
• Discounted Rates (Low-Income Discount): Eversource offers discounted electricity rates for eligible low-income customers. Enrollment in certain public assistance programs (like LIHEAP, SSI, SNAP, Medicaid) often qualifies you for this discount.
• Arrearage Management Program (AMP): This program helps eligible low-income customers eliminate past-due balances. If you make on-time monthly payments, a portion of your past debt can be forgiven.
• Payment Plans and Extensions: Eversource can work with customers to set up flexible payment arrangements to pay off past-due balances over time or provide short-term payment extensions if you need a little more time.
• Medical Hardship Protection: If a serious medical condition in your household requires continuous electricity, you may qualify for temporary protection from service shut-off with proper medical documentation.

Get Help and Manage Your Usage

If you anticipate difficulty paying your Eversource bill, the most important step is to contact Eversource directly as soon as possible at 1-800-592-2000. They can guide you through the application process for these programs and discuss payment options tailored to your situation.

Additionally, the state has created an initiative called Mass Save. This program helps residents and businesses save money and energy through rebates, incentives, and resources for energy efficiency upgrades. Below are a few quick and easy ways to manage your electricity usage:

• Optimize Thermostat Settings: Adjust your thermostat to energy-saving temperatures.
• Seal Drafts and Insulate: Improve your home’s insulation and seal air leaks around windows and doors.
• Unplug “Vampire” Electronics: Unplug devices when not in use to stop phantom energy drain.
• Consider Energy Choice: In Massachusetts’s deregulated market, you can also explore switching to a different electricity supplier to potentially secure a lower supply rate. If you are wondering what providers are top notch we have identified our top four Best Massachusetts Electricity Providers for 2025

By understanding the upcoming changes and utilizing the available resources, Eversource customers in Massachusetts can better manage the impact of these rising electricity rates.