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Massachusetts News
Local News
Eversource Ready for Potential Heat Wave
Jul 26, 2023
heatwave
energy efficiency
saving energy
BOSTON, Mass. (July 26, 2023) – With temperatures expected to be in the 90s along with high humidity for the next several days across New England, many residential and business customers will have their air conditioners and fans working overtime. During the summer months, Eversource customers in Massachusetts use about 40% more electricity to keep cool, and that increased demand can put a strain on the electric system. The energy company works year-round, investing in the system, to make the grid more resilient to extreme weather and its crews are always ready to respond to any issues that could arise during periods of extreme heat. Remote system operators are also constantly monitoring the system and are ready to reroute power and shift other resources as necessary. As Eversource remains focused on protecting the system from heat-caused stress the company is also reminding customers of steps they can take to keep cool and save energy during the hot weather.
“We all use more energy during the summer months as we try to keep cool, running our air conditioners, fans, and other appliances, and that demand usually peaks when we see prolonged hot weather for multiple days,” said Eversource President of Regional Electric Operations Craig Hallstrom. “We prepare for that increased usage months in advance by conducting ground and aerial inspections of the overhead and underground electrical system so we can detect and address any issues well beforehand and ensure that customers have reliable service year-round, especially during these hot and humid days.”
Things customers can do to manage energy usage this summer:
- Keep air conditioners set as warm as comfort allows. For every degree higher on the thermostat, the air conditioner will use 1-3% less electricity.
- Don’t block air flow. Keep air vents clear of obstructions such as furniture, curtains, and rugs.
- Operate major appliances during the cooler parts of the day. Energy is conserved by using appliances like clothes washers and dryers early in the morning or late in the evening when there is also less demand on the electric system.
- Keep blinds closed to prevent unwanted direct sunlight from entering a home through windows. Using curtains, shades, and blinds can lower indoor temperatures by up to 20 degrees.
- Switch to ENERGY STAR® certified LED lights. The energy-efficient bulbs run cooler and last up to 25 times longer than incandescent lights.
- Set ceiling fans to rotate counterclockwise and at a higher speed in the summer to circulate the air more effectively, creating a cooling, wind chill effect. Remember to turn the fan off when leaving the room.
- Weatherize at home. A weatherized home is more comfortable and uses less energy for heating and cooling. Start by signing up for a no-cost Home Energy Assessment to identify opportunities for insulation and air sealing in your home. Based on the findings of your Home Energy Assessment, you may qualify for 75% - 100% of a recommended insulation upgrade and air sealing at no cost. Appointments are available for the remaining summer months.
To learn about the many energy saving programs available, visit Eversource.com.
Help is available for customers who need it
Eversource encourages customers to enroll in one of its payment plans or assistance programs if they need help with their energy bill.
- The New Start Program can help income-eligible, electric and gas customers reduce or eliminate their outstanding balance in as little as 12 months when they make on-time monthly payments and Eversource will make up the difference by eliminating or forgiving a portion of the total balance enrolled in the program – reducing the amount owed each month.
- Flexible Payment Plans are available to all customers, regardless of income, to pay their past-due balance over a period of time.
- Budget Billing Plans are also available and can help customers avoid seasonal spikes on their energy bill by paying a fixed amount each month based on their average annual usage.
- A Discount Rate is available to customers receiving public assistance benefits and have a household income at or below 60% of the state median income. These customers may be eligible for a 42% discount on their monthly electric bill or a 25% discount on their monthly natural gas bill.
Regardless of financial need, customers are eligible for various payment programs and are urged to call Eversource at 866-861-6225 (Eastern Massachusetts) or 877-963-2632 (Western Massachusetts) or visit Eversource.com/BillHelp to find the right plan for them and enroll online.
CONTACT:
Chris McKinnon
617-424-2108
William Hinkle
603-634-2228