BREAKING: Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell has just announced a landmark $45 million settlement with Eversource Energy aimed at providing immediate relief to electric and gas ratepayers. This urgent resolution addresses 16 longstanding docket matters, significantly impacting consumers’ bills across the state.
The settlement is poised to lower costs for residents, as NSTAR Electric customers will receive a $20 million rate credit, while Eversource Gas of Massachusetts customers will benefit from over $25 million in annual savings following critical adjustments after Eversource’s acquisition of Columbia Gas of Massachusetts.
AG Campbell emphasized that this action underscores her commitment to “affordability and consumer protection.” She expressed gratitude to the Department of Public Utilities for their role in easing the financial burden on Massachusetts residents.
The settlement also rectifies discrepancies related to the Resiliency Tree Work (RTW) program, originally designed to enhance grid reliability. After rigorous challenges from AG Campbell’s team, customers will receive $2.5 million in credits over the next 12 months, starting on January 1, 2026. In addition, Eversource will credit consumers $17.5 million for Pension Adjustment Factor issues, also disbursed over the same timeframe.
This settlement, while addressing the complexities of the Columbia Gas transaction, guarantees $25.7 million in annual benefits for Eversource Gas ratepayers for the next decade. These benefits arise from operational synergies negotiated by AG Campbell’s office, despite previous approvals for the recovery costs linked to Eversource’s acquisition.
Further illustrating her commitment to consumer welfare, AG Campbell’s office also secured $32 million in savings for National Grid Electric ratepayers by contesting unnecessary funding for an electric vehicle program.
Residents across Massachusetts can expect significant reductions in their energy bills starting soon as the adjustments take effect. This settlement is a crucial step in ensuring that consumers are not only heard but also protected in the ever-evolving energy landscape.
As this story develops, stay tuned for updates on how these changes will impact your bills and what further actions may be taken to enhance consumer protection in Massachusetts.
