Eversource Is Seeking A 2.3-Cent Default Service Rate Hike For NH’s Residential Customers

MANCHESTER, NH — Eversource, New Hampshire’s largest electricity company, will seek a 2.3-cent increase in its default service rate.

If approved by the New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission, the default rate will be 11.2 cents per kilowatt hour, raising the average monthly cost of 600 kWh by about $13.61. The company said Friday the costs were being passed onto customers “with no markup or profit to the company” and constitutes the arrival of summer, as customers increase the usage of fans and air conditioners to stay cool.

Energy supply price changes occur biannually, on Feb. 1 and Aug. 1.

“Reflecting increased volatility and uncertainty in energy supply markets, this supply rate adjustment also coincides with the hot summer months when energy usage typically increases significantly for customers as they rely on air conditioners, fans and other appliances to stay cool,” Eversource Executive Vice President of Customer Experience and Energy Strategy Penni Conner said. “Even if you keep your thermostat set at the same temperature all summer long, you’ll use more electricity when it’s 95 degrees outside, as opposed to 75 degrees, because your system is working that much harder to keep your home or business cool. This increase in usage always results in higher bills for customers in the summer, so it’s a great idea for customers to consider energy efficiency measures that can help reduce usage, whether it’s taking advantage of the programs we offer or shifting your schedule a bit so you’re operating major appliances during the cooler parts of the day.”

Some of our energy-saving tips, Conner said, may seem simple, but several minor changes can make a big difference and result in a drop in your electric usage, which will be reflected in your bill.

The company said customers can explore “many assistance programs,” including flexible payment plans and energy efficiency measures to save money. Customers with income qualifications can receive a discount on their monthly bill. The New Start Program can help “income-eligible customers reduce or eliminate their outstanding balance in as little as 12 months when they make on-time monthly payments and Eversource will make up the difference by eliminating or forgiving a portion of the total balance enrolled in the program — reducing the amount owed each month,” the company said.

The company said the increase would only be given to customers with Eversource’s default service rate. Approximately 45 percent of Eversource residential customers receive supply through a community power program or an alternative supplier, not through Eversource’s default service rate.

Customers with questions should call Eversource at 800-662-7764 or visit the company’s website, Eversource.com, linked here, for more information.

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