23 Percent Drop in National Grid Rates for Seekonk, Swansea

By Charlene Arsenault (Patch Staff)

MARLBOROUGH, MA — National Grid customers in the state can expect a lower bill during the spring and the summer starting on May 1.

If new rates are approved by the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU), a typical residential customer using 500 kWh of electricity who receives Basic Service would see an electric bill that is approximately 23 percent lower than their current bill—or a $25 savings—said National Grid in an announcement on Tuesday.

“As we emerge again from winter, a season that consistently brings us higher energy prices, we are pleased that our customers can look forward to lower bills,” said Marcy Reed, president of National Grid in Massachusetts, in a statement. “We are committed to pursuing solutions that help stabilize energy costs for our customers, regardless of the season.”

National Grid reminds customers that it doesn't control the cost, and does not make money on the electricity it purchases for customers. While it is good news for customers, National Grid said there is concern about the impact these costs have on customers throughout the year. The company offers a page to help customers manage these costs and advocate for long-term energy solutions for the region.

"New England has been dealing with pipeline infrastructure constraints, which limit the amount of natural gas available for electricity generation," said the announcement. "At the same time, there is a need for cleaner and more reliable energy. A balanced approach of advancing renewables, increasing energy efficiency, and increasing gas transmission and pipeline capacity is the company’s solution to helping solve this unprecedented challenge."