November Peak-Season Natural Gas Rate Adjustment

Constraints on Domestic Supply Driving Overall Natural Gas Price Increase  

 

I want to inform you that the cost of natural gas continues to be high this winter for Eversource customers. As you know, Eversource purchases natural gas supply to meet the energy needs of our customers for the winter and summer seasons.   Today’s high cost of energy is primarily due to constraints on domestic natural gas supply due to strong global demand and tight supply of natural gas in the energy marketplace heading into the heating season.  

 

In addition to the natural gas supply rate change, an adjustment to the delivery portion of the bill related to safely and reliably operating the natural gas system also took effect on  
November 1.   

 

For Eversource Gas of Massachusetts (Formerly Columbia Gas), a typical residential heating customer using 132 therms a month during the winter will see an increase of $47, compared to last winter. A customer’s total bill amount depends on their energy use, the type of rate they are on, and weather conditions.  

 

Encouraging Customers to Take Steps Now to Lower Their Natural Gas Use and Bill This Winter 

  • We recognize the financial challenges these increases will have on many customers.  That is why we are communicating the expected increase now, and encouraging customers to take advantage of energy-saving tips, rebates on energy-saving products, like smart thermostats, and sign up for a no-cost, virtual Home Energy Assessment. 

 

  • We also have a Budget Billing Program which lets you divide your annual energy costs into fixed monthly payments so that you know exactly how much your electric bill will be each month, avoiding seasonal spikes. 

 

  • In addition, even if customers have never needed help before, they may now qualify for special programs to help lower their monthly bill, reduce their past due balance, or extended payment plans. We ask that you share this information with your constituents if they express concerns about their bills.