Massachusetts State Senator Jake Oliveira has led a coalition of over 80 lawmakers in urging the Department of Public Utilities (DPU) to review recent energy rate hikes approved by investor-owned utility companies like Eversource and National Grid. The legislators claim that these increases are placing an unsustainable financial strain on households and small businesses.
According to Oliveira, some residents have seen their energy bills double, while others, such as seniors on fixed incomes, face 27% increases in heating costs. Despite claims from Eversource that the spikes are due to colder temperatures and increased usage, many ratepayers with consistent energy consumption are still experiencing drastic hikes.
Oliveira is demanding a comprehensive review of Eversource’s pricing structure to determine whether the rate increases are justified. He argues that profits should not be prioritized over the well-being of Massachusetts families and calls for the DPU to take immediate action to protect consumers and ensure fairness in energy pricing.
The coalition is urging the DPU to prioritize affordability for all residents, particularly during the winter season when energy costs can be especially burdensome.
Source: https://franklinobserver.town.news/g/franklin-town-ma/n/293573/80-legislators-call-urgent-review-energy-rate-increases