The state of Massachusetts is feeling the summer heat early, as warmer weather serves as a reminder of the state?s growing electricity prices.
Over the past few years, energy prices in the state have been swelling tremendously, for reasons many are blaming on the low supply of natural gas in the area. With so much natural gas needed to run electricity-generating power plants, and an insufficient supply of that natural gas being sent to the area, the state has been forced to raise prices to make up for the difference.
According to the two main utilities in the state, Eversource and National Grid, rates have gone up between 29 and 37 percent for consumers.
These issues were discussed in-depth earlier this week on Boston Herald?s ?Morning Meeting,? where Matthew Beaton, Secretary at Energy and Environmental Affairs discussed the state?s future plans to remedy the issue. According to Beaton, the state?s plan is to get a pipeline in the ground to help bring more natural gas to the area.
Although the pipeline is still years away, the state is hoping that the recent spikes in rates will be the catalyst needed to begin preparations for this type of solution.
While a natural gas pipeline is still the end-goal for Massachusetts, the state is taking other small action steps in an effort to lower rising energy prices.
Fortunately, for area residents, the effort is paying off. While energy prices are still higher than last year, rates are being cut dramatically with summer right on the horizon. Select retail energy providers from around the state are offering lower energy rates to help accommodate customers who have been enduring the spikes within the Massachusetts market.
Actual Electricity Rates in Massachusetts as of May 28, 2015
As of the end of May, residents near the coast are experiencing some of the lowest rates in the state, with prices settling in around 8 center per kilowatt per hour, according to ElectricChoice.com?s published rates.
However, the rates for those living in Boston aren?t cooling off as quickly. According to Cirro Energy?s posted rates, city residents are paying an average of 10 cents per kWh.
Residents in the Plymouth area are enjoying similar rates, with ThinkEnergy offering rates at 9.70 cents per kWh.
Similar rates apply to major cities such as New Bedford, with companies such as conEdison Solutions offering prices as low as 9.75 cents per kWh for fixed rates.
In Springfield, rates have dipped below 9 cents per kWh and while overall costs are higher than years before, it is bringing some hope to those living in these major Massachusetts area.
For current electricity rates and plans in your area (in Massachusetts and elsewhere), head on over to our electricity marketplace and type in your zip code.