BREAKING: Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell has just announced a significant $45 million settlement with Eversource Energy, promising immediate relief for ratepayers across the state. This urgent resolution aims to lower electric and gas bills for consumers and addresses long-standing issues that have persisted for over a decade.
The settlement impacts a total of 16 docket matters, which include critical areas such as vegetation management and pension costs. AG Campbell emphasized the importance of this action, stating, “Affordability and consumer protection are at the forefront of our work.” Her commitment to easing financial burdens is evident, with the Department of Public Utilities aiding in this crucial effort.
Starting on January 1, 2026, NSTAR Electric customers will benefit from a $20 million rate credit, while Eversource Gas of Massachusetts customers can expect over $25 million in annual savings following necessary rate adjustments stemming from Eversource’s acquisition of Columbia Gas of Massachusetts. This settlement is a direct response to the financial strain many Massachusetts residents face.
The agreement also rectifies discrepancies in NSTAR Electric’s Resiliency Tree Work (RTW) program, originally designed to bolster grid reliability. AG Campbell’s office successfully challenged these discrepancies, leading to $2.5 million in customer credits, which will be doled out over a 12-month period starting January 1, 2026.
Moreover, Eversource will credit an additional $17.5 million to consumers for Pension Adjustment Factor issues, impacting the same timeline. The complexity of the Columbia Gas acquisition presented challenges, but this settlement ultimately ensures Eversource Gas of Massachusetts ratepayers receive $25.7 million in annual benefits for the next ten years, thanks to operational synergies negotiated by AG Campbell’s office.
In addition to these developments, Campbell’s office has successfully secured $32 million in savings for National Grid Electric ratepayers by contesting funding for an electric vehicle program that exceeded necessary costs.
This settlement is expected to alleviate the financial stress many families in Massachusetts experience, making a significant difference in household budgets across the region. As more details unfold, consumers are eagerly awaiting the changes that will take effect, highlighting the vital role AG Campbell plays in protecting the interests of Massachusetts residents.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops further.
