National Grid Adjusts Natural Gas Prices in Massachusetts

Company continues investment in service, infrastructure Bill help and energy efficiency available to customers

WALTHAM, Mass. – National Grid today submitted its proposed Massachusetts natural gas prices to the Department of Public Utilities. The prices, if approved, will result in higher overall bills this winter. The company offers solutions and tips for managing bills.

National Grid’s proposed adjustment is a contrast from last winter, when customers saved an average of $5 each month through a bill credit. Due in part because that credit has expired, a typical residential natural gas customer could see a roughly $14 increase in monthly bills beginning in November.

“It is never a good time to increase costs for our customers, but we are proud that each customer dollar is supporting our gas system, which grows stronger each year,” said Marcy Reed, president, National Grid, Massachusetts. “Not only can our customers depend on us to deliver safe and reliable service, they can be assured we are here to help them through billing options and providing the best energy efficiency programs in the nation.”

The company is proposing to change both supply and delivery rates for the winter. Supply – the portion of the bill the company passes to customers at cost – is responsible for less than a dollar of the anticipated monthly increase for the typical customer.

Two factors are responsible for the majority of National Grid’s proposed adjustments. First, the company is reconciling the difference between what it billed customers for delivery last winter and the revenue needed to support delivery services. Secondly, the increase is due to work National Grid has done to improve system safety and reliability through its leak prone main replacement program. The company expects to replace nearly 140 miles of leak prone pipe this calendar year, compared to 126 miles in 2015.

How Can You Lower Your Bills?

National Grid has a three-decade history of helping New England customers realize energy savings through energy efficiency. Maintaining an efficient heating system is an important step to conserving energy. Have your heating system serviced once every two years by a licensed, qualified professional.

In addition to energy efficiency tips and opportunities, billing options and discounts also are available to help eligible customers who may have difficulty paying their monthly gas or electric bill.

National Grid offers billing programs to help customers spread payments out more evenly across the year, which is particularly helpful to those on fixed incomes. Discounts are based on certain eligibility requirements. For more information about energy efficiency or the availability of these discounts, customers should visit www.ngrid.com/billhelp, contact National Grid at 800-322-3223 or contact their local energy assistance agency, Community Action Agency or state department of social services.