National Grid customers prepare for 64% rate increase Tuesday

BOSTON — National Grid is reminding customers to brace for higher electric rates starting Tuesday, November 1st.

Typical residential electric customers will see a 64% rate hike.

According to National Grid, the increase in electricity rates is a result of the rising price of natural gas “due to global conflict, inflationary pressures, and high demand as the winter heating season approaches.”

Whether you rent or own your home, consumer advocates say you should already be preparing for higher costs.

“This is something that will have a significant impact. Heat is not something that we can be without,” said Deirdre Cummings with MASSPIRG.

Cummings said every degree you turn down the heat this winter will make a difference.

“For every one degree you turn down your thermostat, you save 1 to 3 percent on your heating bill,” explained Cummings.

National Grid is sharing some of the following tips that can also ease the strain on your budget.

• Clear areas in front of vents from furniture; blocked vents require up to 25 percent more energy to distribute air.
• Use programmable thermostats to adjust heating when rooms are unoccupied (saving you energy and up to $180 a year)
• Upgrade outdated heating to newer, more energy-efficient models (saving as much as 30 percent on energy costs in the long term).

Eversource is also passing along some steps you can take to try to save energy.

• Keep fireplace damper closed (when fire isn’t burning) to prevent warm air from escaping through chimney
• Eliminate air-leaks and drafts by weather stripping and air sealing
• Open your blinds in the daytime to absorb sun’s heat

Customers who use Eversource to heat their homes will see new rates go into effect on January 1, 2023.

Eversource is expected to file its proposed electric rate changes with the Department of Public Utilities sometime in mid-November.

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