Raghib Allie-Brennan

Winter Electric Rates: What’s Changing on January 1

View this email in your browser Dear Neighbor,  Electric rates will increase on January 1, and I want to clearly explain why and what we’re doing about it. The increase is in the supply portion of the bill, which reflects the wholesale cost of generating electricity. Every winter, those costs climb because New England relies so heavily on natural gas. When cold weather pushes up demand for heating, natural-gas prices rise, and the wholesale cost of electricity follows. Utilities must pass those costs through without profit, which is why these seasonal spikes keep appearing on our bills. The reality is that as long as our region depends on natural gas, we will continue to see this kind of volatility. That’s why transitioning to a more diverse and resilient energy mix is essential not only for the environment but for long-term affordability and stability. Last session, we took an important step with SB 4, requiring a full review of utilities’ wholesale purchasing practices to ensure ratepayers are getting the best possible pricing. That work is underway, and I look forward to using its findings as we consider what can be trimmed or reformed in the upcoming session to ease costs where we can. I know these increases are frustrating, especially heading into winter. I’ll continue working with colleagues and regulators to improve transparency, strengthen our energy system, and protect ratepayers. Sincerely, Raghib Allie-Brennan State Representative Forward to a friend | Unsubscribe from this list | Update subscription preferences