Massachusetts Orders 5% Gas Bill Cut Amid Cost Surge

In response to overwhelming public outcry over unsustainable energy costs, the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) has directed six local utility companies, including Eversource and National Grid, to reduce residential gas bills by 5% for March and April. This directive follows significant pressure from Governor Maura Healey and 80 lawmakers, as residents faced a 27% hike in heating bills due to a combination of increased supply costs and cold winter conditions. The DPU emphasized that while they cannot reduce February's delivery charges, they plan to explore longer-term solutions, such as shifting some delivery costs to off-peak seasons. Utility companies are required to submit proposals detailing how they will implement these cuts by the end of Monday. The DPU maintains that these measures aim to provide immediate relief while considering structural changes to prevent future pricing volatility. Eversource and other utilities have expressed support, acknowledging the need for affordability amid the state's ongoing clean energy transition.