BOSTON — Eversource natural gas customers can expect lower costs for the upcoming off-peak season beginning May 1 due to a significant drop in global market prices and reduced individual use during the summer months. 

 

The energy company has filed decreased gas supply rates with the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) and if approved, an average residential customer would see an approximately 15-20 percent savings per month compared to last summer.

 

"Whenever we can pass cost savings on to our customers and provide financial relief it is welcome news, especially following historically high energy prices throughout the region this past winter," said Eversource Executive Vice President for Customer Experience and Energy Strategy Penni Conner. "Future market volatility remains likely and we know that many customers are still facing financial challenges, so we continue to encourage anyone who may be struggling with their bill to reach out so that we can work one-on-one to connect them with the variety of assistance programs, payment plans, or energy efficiency solutions available to support customers."

 

In addition to the natural gas supply rate, proposed adjustments to other portions of the bill related to safely and reliably operating the gas system are also expected to take effect on May 1. If all proposed adjustments are approved by the DPU, in the former Columbia Gas service territory, an average residential heating customer using 29 therms of gas per month will see a decrease of approximately 20 percent or $13 per month compared to off-peak pricing last year.

 

An average residential heating customer in the NSTAR Gas service territory using 26 therms of gas per month will see a decrease of roughly 15 percent or $9 per month compared to 2022 off-peak prices. 

 

While the natural gas supply rate changes twice per year every May 1 and November 1 in Massachusetts, state regulation requires monthly calculations be submitted to the DPU – and if the supply cost of natural gas fluctuates by more than 5 percent, state law requires an adjustment as to not over or under charge customers, which most recently happened for NSTAR Gas customers in February and former Columbia Gas customers in March.

 

Eversource also offers a variety of payment assistance options to support customers who are struggling with their bills—including those who have never needed help before. Additionally, Eversource offers Budget Billing, allowing some customers to better manage expenses by dividing energy costs into fixed monthly payments, avoiding seasonal spikes. To learn more about special programs to help customers lower monthly bills, reduce?past due balances, or extended payment plans, visit Eversource.com.

 

While energy markets are expected to remain volatile in the near future, Eversource is also reminding all of its customers about steps they can take to help reduce their energy consumption, costs and their impact on the environment. Customers can sign up for a no-cost, no-obligation home energy assessment for personalized recommendations for energy-saving products for their home. Income-eligible customers may also qualify for additional money and energy-saving offers. Customers can also take advantage of a variety of other energy efficiency programs to save money and energy during the upcoming summer months.