Massachusetts Electricity Rates: National Grid vs Eversource Comparison

Massachusetts Electricity Rates: National Grid vs Eversource Comparison

Massachusetts has two major electric utilities - National Grid and Eversource - serving different regions of the state. Both operate in a deregulated market where you can choose your electricity supplier.

National Grid Massachusetts

National Grid serves approximately 1.3 million electric customers in eastern and central Massachusetts.

National Grid Rate Structure

• Customer Charge: ~$7/month
• Distribution Charge: Per-kWh delivery cost
• Transmission Charge: Grid infrastructure
• Basic Service: If using National Grid supply
• Renewable Energy Charge: Clean energy costs

Average residential rate: approximately 25-27 cents per kWh

Eversource Massachusetts

Eversource serves approximately 1.4 million electric customers in eastern Massachusetts, including the Boston area.

Eversource Rate Structure

• Customer Charge: ~$7/month
• Distribution Delivery: Per-kWh charge
• Transmission: High-voltage costs
• Generation Service: If using Eversource supply
• Renewable Energy: State mandate costs

Average residential rate: approximately 26-28 cents per kWh

Why Massachusetts Rates Are High

1. Natural gas constraints - pipeline limitations increase prices
2. Renewable energy mandates - transition costs
3. Transmission congestion - limited import capacity
4. High labor and land costs - infrastructure expenses

Choosing a Supplier

Massachusetts allows you to choose your electricity supplier:

Basic Service (Utility Supply)

• Rates change periodically
• No contract commitment
• Regulated pricing

Competitive Suppliers

• Fixed-rate options available
• Variable rates may fluctuate
• Compare carefully before switching

Massachusetts Energy Assistance

• LIHEAP through local Community Action agencies
• Good Neighbor Energy Fund
• Utility discount rates for low-income customers
• Weatherization Assistance Program

Tips for Massachusetts Residents

1. Compare suppliers but read the fine print
2. Consider community choice aggregation if your town offers it
3. Explore solar - Massachusetts has excellent incentives
4. Apply for discount rates if you qualify