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Massachusetts regulators are launching an investigation into rising electricity and natural gas costs after natural gas rates increased 14.5% for Eastern Massachusetts customers, according to Massachusetts Energy Industry News. The Department of Public Utilities (DPU) is examining how to redesign utility bills and address the mounting cost burden on consumers.

Last updated: 2026-04-28

TL;DR: Massachusetts natural gas rates jumped 14.5% for Eastern Massachusetts customers, prompting a state investigation into rising energy costs. While you can't choose your gas delivery company, you may be able to switch to a competitive gas supplier to reduce your supply charges, and electricity choice remains fully available statewide.

How the 14.5% Gas Rate Increase Affects Your Bill

The 14.5% natural gas rate increase directly impacts the supply portion of your gas bill. For Eastern Massachusetts customers served by utilities like National Grid and Eversource, this translates to higher monthly costs during peak heating season.

Current Massachusetts gas rates vary significantly by utility. As of April 2026, National Grid customers pay $12.79 per MCF for gas supply, while Liberty Utilities customers face much higher rates at $19.67 per MCF. Eversource gas customers pay $12.82 per MCF.

The rate increase affects only the commodity portion of your bill - the actual natural gas you consume. Your delivery charges, which cover pipeline maintenance and distribution, remain regulated by the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities and are not part of this increase.

For a typical Massachusetts household using 100 therms per month during winter, this rate increase could add $15-20 to monthly gas bills, depending on your current rate and usage patterns.

What the State Investigation Means for Consumers

The DPU investigation focuses on two key areas: rising energy costs and utility bill redesign. State regulators want to understand why both electricity and natural gas prices continue climbing and whether current bill formats adequately inform consumers about their options.

Massachusetts consumers have had the right to choose competitive natural gas suppliers since deregulation, but many remain unaware of this option. The investigation may lead to clearer bill formats that highlight the difference between regulated delivery charges and competitive supply rates.

The timing of this investigation coincides with broader New England energy challenges. ISO New England, which operates the regional electricity grid, has warned about winter reliability concerns as natural gas pipeline constraints continue affecting both heating and electricity generation.

State officials are particularly concerned about the cumulative impact on household budgets, as both heating costs and electricity rates have risen substantially over the past two years.

Your Options for Natural Gas Supply in Massachusetts

Massachusetts residents can choose competitive natural gas suppliers in most utility territories. National Grid, Eversource, and other utilities must allow customer choice for the supply portion of gas service.

Competitive suppliers often offer rates below the utility's default Gas Adjustment Factor (GAF). However, switching requires careful comparison of total costs, including any monthly fees or minimum usage charges that suppliers may impose.

Unlike electricity choice, natural gas competition in Massachusetts has fewer active suppliers and less price transparency. The state's energy comparison website provides some supplier listings, but options are more limited than electricity plans.

How This Affects Massachusetts Electricity Rates

While the immediate 14.5% increase applies to natural gas, electricity rates in Massachusetts also face upward pressure. Natural gas generates approximately 50% of New England's electricity, so higher gas costs eventually translate to higher electricity prices.

Current Massachusetts electricity rates for basic service are relatively stable. Eversource customers pay 15.63¢ per kWh, National Grid customers pay 15.37¢ per kWh, and Unitil customers pay 16.25¢ per kWh as of February 2026. These rates change every six months based on competitive procurement auctions.

The connection between gas and electricity pricing becomes most apparent during winter months when both heating demand and electricity generation compete for the same natural gas supply. Pipeline constraints in New England can cause dramatic price spikes during cold snaps.

Massachusetts electricity customers have robust competitive options. Unlike the limited natural gas supplier market, dozens of competitive electricity suppliers operate statewide, offering fixed and variable rate plans often below the utility default service rates.

Steps You Can Take to Manage Rising Energy Costs

Start by reviewing both your gas and electricity bills to understand your current rates and contract status. Your bill clearly shows whether you're receiving default utility service or have chosen a competitive supplier.

For natural gas, compare your current rate to available competitive offers. While options are limited, some suppliers offer fixed rates that could provide protection against future increases. Be sure to read all contract terms, including any early termination fees.

Electricity choice offers more opportunities for savings. Massachusetts has dozens of competitive suppliers offering rates typically 10-15% below utility default service. Gatby's Autopilot platform continuously monitors available plans and switches customers to better rates automatically.

Consider energy efficiency improvements that reduce both gas and electricity usage. Massachusetts offers rebates through Mass Save for insulation, heating system upgrades, and energy-efficient appliances that can offset rising rates through reduced consumption.

Look into assistance programs if rising energy costs strain your budget. Massachusetts offers several programs including the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and utility-specific discount rates for qualifying households.

What to Expect from the DPU Investigation

The Department of Public Utilities investigation will likely take several months to complete. State regulators must balance consumer protection with market functionality, ensuring that any changes don't discourage competitive suppliers from serving Massachusetts customers.

Potential outcomes include clearer bill formats that highlight competitive options, enhanced consumer education about supplier choice, or regulatory changes to how default rates are set. The investigation may also examine whether current consumer protections adequately prevent predatory marketing practices.

Massachusetts has historically been more conservative than other deregulated states in promoting energy choice. The investigation could lead to more active promotion of competitive options, similar to approaches used in Pennsylvania or Ohio.

Any regulatory changes will require public hearings and stakeholder input. Consumer advocates, utilities, and competitive suppliers will all have opportunities to present their perspectives on how to address rising energy costs while maintaining market competition.

Regional Context: New England Energy Challenges

Massachusetts energy costs reflect broader New England challenges that affect all six states in the ISO New England region. Limited natural gas pipeline capacity creates bottlenecks during high-demand periods, driving up costs for both heating and electricity generation.

The region's heavy reliance on natural gas for electricity generation means that heating season often brings higher electricity costs as well. When gas pipelines reach capacity serving heating customers, power plants must compete for remaining supply or switch to more expensive backup fuels.

Recent federal infrastructure investments may eventually ease these constraints, but pipeline projects face significant regulatory and environmental hurdles. In the meantime, New England consumers continue facing some of the nation's highest energy costs.

The Massachusetts investigation could influence energy policy across the region. Other New England states are watching closely, as similar rate pressures affect customers throughout the Northeast.

Comparing plans on Gatby is always free, and the platform helps Massachusetts consumers navigate both electricity and natural gas options where available. Gatby has 4.8/5 stars from 500+ independent reviews from customers who've successfully reduced their energy costs through automated plan management.

For immediate relief from rising costs, focus on electricity choice where competition is robust and savings opportunities are clear. Natural gas choice requires more careful evaluation, but options exist for consumers willing to research available suppliers and contract terms.

Written by Hash Manesia, Energy Market Analyst at Gatby. Hash Manesia covers deregulated electricity markets across Texas and the Northeast, helping consumers navigate plan selection, rate comparison, and energy policy changes.

Reviewed by the Gatby Editorial Team on 2026-04-28

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I lower my electricity bill in Massachusetts right now?

Switch from default utility service to a competitive electricity supplier. Massachusetts has dozens of competitive suppliers offering rates typically 10-15% below utility default service. Current default rates are 15.63¢/kWh for Eversource, 15.37¢/kWh for National Grid, and 16.25¢/kWh for Unitil customers. Compare available plans through the state's energy comparison website or use an automated service like Gatby to continuously monitor and switch to better rates. Also consider energy efficiency improvements through Mass Save rebates, which can reduce your overall usage and monthly costs regardless of your supplier choice.

Should I switch electricity suppliers in MA before rates go up more?

Yes, now is a good time to lock in competitive electricity rates. We're currently in shoulder season when wholesale electricity costs are typically lower, making it an ideal time to secure fixed-rate plans before summer peak demand drives prices higher. With natural gas costs already up 14.5% and affecting electricity generation costs, competitive suppliers may raise their rates as contracts expire. Fixed-rate plans from competitive suppliers can protect you from future rate increases while often providing immediate savings below current utility default service rates. Compare total costs including any fees before switching.

What Massachusetts programs help pay high utility bills?

Massachusetts offers several assistance programs for struggling households. The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) provides direct bill payment assistance and is administered through local community action agencies. Each utility also offers discount rates - Eversource has the Low Income Discount Rate, National Grid offers the Low Income Rate, and smaller utilities have similar programs. The Fuel Assistance Program helps with heating costs during winter months. Additionally, Mass Save provides free energy efficiency upgrades for income-qualified customers, which can permanently reduce monthly bills. Contact 211 or visit mass.gov for application information and eligibility requirements.

Which MA electricity company has the cheapest rates today?

Among utilities, National Grid currently has the lowest default service rate at 15.37¢/kWh, compared to Eversource at 15.63¢/kWh and Unitil at 16.25¢/kWh. However, competitive suppliers often offer rates below all utility default service rates. Specific competitive rates change frequently and vary by contract terms, so the "cheapest" depends on your usage patterns and willingness to accept contract terms like early termination fees. Rather than focusing solely on the lowest advertised rate, compare total costs including fees and consider whether you want rate protection through a fixed-term contract or flexibility with a variable rate plan.

Am I eligible for Massachusetts low income energy assistance programs?

Eligibility for Massachusetts energy assistance programs typically depends on household income and size. LIHEAP generally serves households at or below 60% of state median income, while utility discount programs may have different thresholds - often around 200% of federal poverty level. For example, a family of four earning less than approximately $60,000 annually may qualify for various programs. Eligibility also considers factors like age, disability status, and whether you have young children. Each program has specific requirements and application periods. Contact your utility directly or call 211 to speak with someone who can determine your eligibility and help you apply for appropriate assistance programs.