Massachusetts Gov. Healey Encourages Scrutiny for Proposed Heating Rate Hikes

Massachusetts residents are bracing for significant increases in utility rates this winter. As the state's leading gas heating suppliers, Eversource and National Grid, propose rate hikes, Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey is encouraging the state's DPU to scrutinize rate increases.

According to NewsCenter 5 Boston, National Grid is proposing a slight reduction in gas delivery rates but an increase in gas prices. Overall, bills are expected to remain approximately the same as last year. Eversource plans to increase delivery charges, with the company saying that bills could be at least 13% more expensive.

Healey has criticized the proposed rate hikes as "outrageous because people can't afford those rate hikes," she said.

"There's a DPU process, and I've said to the DPU that they need to — very closely — scrutinize any proposed rate hikes, so that will go through that regulatory process with DPU, and my hope is that they are laser-focused on costs — driving down bills for people," Healey said in a statement shared with NewsCenter 5.

A key priority for state officials is to reduce natural gas costs, with strategies that include increasing supply and enhancing regulatory oversight.

Healey, alongside Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper, has also discussed with solar industry officials how Massachusetts can introduce more affordable solar power to the state.