Electric Bills Will Soar This Winter In Massachusetts: Here Are A Few Things You Can Do

If this doesn’t blow your gasket, I don’t know what will. According to National Grid, Those of us living in Massachusetts will likely see a 64% increase in out electric bills this winter.  Sounds like it’s going to be a long, cold winter. NBC Boston reported that the power company unveiled a “Winter Customer Savings Initiative,” in a press release Wednesday. Also in the report, the company warned that due to “global conflict, inflation and high demand,” you can expect natural gas prices to be considerably higher this winter, which leads to a big increase in electric rates as soon as November 1st.

National Grid cautioned that the average residential customer who has an electric bill of $179 a month may see it bounce up to $293! The Utility company went on to explain they have a proposal with the Department of Public Utilities awaiting, that would increase the average gas customer’s monthly bill by 22%- 24%.

This might be a good time to turn down the lights, find your zen, and remain calm. There are some things we can all do to help combat the rise in our electric and gas bills. Some of these tips won’t cost you a thing and require very little time, others are worth the investment. I’m in the process of getting new windows for my very old home. It’s pricey for sure, but I know it’s totally worth the investment. I will save money on heating costs and in the value of my home for resale.

• Tip #1 To Keep Costs Down

  Here’s an easy one. Move your furniture away from any air vents or radiators. Blocked vents use up to 25% more energy to circulate air.

  #TipTuesday Move furniture away from vents. Let the warm or cool air circulate freely so your system works more easily and minimizes fuel and energy consumption. pic.twitter.com/b0tM3XRknt

  — Energy+ Inc. (@EnergyPlusInc) February 13, 2018

• Tip #2

  Unplug your chargers and all electronics, when you aren’t using them. Also, you can try using a smart power strip to help get a handle on the  amount of energy electronics use

  Here’s a tip to help save energy this summer: Unplug chargers, power strips and equipment when not in use. pic.twitter.com/hju8nDuaYQ

  — IID (@IIDatWork) September 6, 2022

• Tip #3

  If there are rooms not in use in your house, it’s a good idea to use a programmable thermostat to adjust your heating and cooling

  https://twitter.com/HomeImpGarden/status/1573145776544698368

• Tip #4

  Make sure you set your refridgerator to 38 degrees.

  A good rule of thumb is to keep your fridge set at about 35-38 degrees to keep your food fresh. Take a look at your settings to avoid zapping extra energy by keeping your food too cold.#TuesdayTip #energytips #CPAcares #energysmart #energysavings pic.twitter.com/qQYmCir5QY

  — Clean Power Alliance (@CleanPowerInfo) June 23, 2021

• Tip #5

  Check your insulation on exterior walls, also on ceilings, roofs and wall cavities.

  A recent energy audit found another loft completely uninsulated. This is a great way to over spend on heating. Better insulation = lower heating costs. Insulation typically pays for itself in 3.5 years#energyefficiency #insulation #heating #FridayThoughts #energy #savings pic.twitter.com/SG3LazJZ5P

  — Carter Energy Consulting (@energy_carter) June 25, 2021