Customers urged to take advantage of energy efficiency measures to lower usage and save

MANCHESTER, N.H. (June 20, 2025) – Amidst increasing volatility in the region’s wholesale energy supply markets, Eversource this week filed its new Default Service supply rate, which will increase starting on August 1 if approved by the New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission (PUC). Eversource does not generate electricity and is required to purchase power on behalf of customers who take its Default Service rate, and those costs are passed on with no markup or profit to the company.

With the arrival of summer weather, many people are starting to crank up their fans and air conditioners to beat the heat. On average, customers in New Hampshire use about 20% more electricity during the summer months, and that increase can be even greater when there are multiple heat waves like the state experienced last year. A customer’s total bill is ultimately determined by usage, and Eversource is reminding customers that it’s not too late to explore the many assistance programs, flexible payment plans, and energy efficiency measures available that can result in meaningful energy and cost savings.

“Reflecting increased volatility and uncertainty in energy supply markets, this supply rate adjustment also coincides with the hot summer months when energy usage typically increases significantly for customers as they rely on air conditioners, fans and other appliances to stay cool,” said Eversource Executive Vice President of Customer Experience and Energy Strategy Penni Conner. “Even if you keep your thermostat set at the same temperature all summer long, you’ll use more electricity when it’s 95-degrees outside, as opposed to 75-degrees, because your system is working that much harder to keep your home or business cool. This increase in usage always results in higher bills for customers in the summer, so it’s a great idea for customers to consider energy efficiency measures that can help reduce usage, whether it’s taking advantage of the programs we offer or shifting your schedule a bit so you’re operating major appliances during the cooler parts of the day. Some of our energy-saving tips may seem simple, but several small changes can make a big difference and result in a drop in your electric usage, which will be reflected in your bill.”

In New Hampshire, the energy supply price changes twice a year – February 1 and August 1. If approved by the PUC, the Default Service rate for residential customers in New Hampshire would change from the current 8.9 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh) to 11.2 cents per kWh. As a result, starting August 1, the typical residential customer using an average of 600 kWh per month is estimated to see an overall increase of approximately $13.61, or 9.9%, on their total bill compared to their current bill. Additional adjustments to the delivery side of customer bills are also anticipated to take effect on Aug. 1 pending orders from the PUC, which include the company’s distribution rate review and storm cost recovery, as previously announced. Those filings are still being reviewed by the PUC, and final numbers are not yet available.

The supply rate change only affects customers receiving energy supply through Eversource’s Default Service rate. As of May, approximately 45% of Eversource residential customers in New Hampshire receive their energy supply through a community power program or an alternative supplier – and not through Eversource’s Default Service rate. The energy company encourages all customers to compare the Default Service rate with other available options to choose the one that works best for them. Customers can learn more about supplier options and what to consider before switching on the Department of Energy’s website.

Help is available for customers who need it

Eversource encourages customers to enroll in one of the company’s payment plans or assistance programs if they need help with their energy bill.  

• The New Start Program can help income-eligible 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.
• Customers that meet certain household income guidelines may qualify for a Discount Rate on their monthly bill through the Electric Assistance Program.
• 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 level amount each month based on their average annual usage.
• Energy Efficiency solutions and incentives are available to help customers save money and energy.

Regardless of financial need, customers are eligible for various payment programs and are urged to call Eversource at 800-662-7764 or visit Eversource.com for more information about the variety of programs the energy company offers to connect customers with assistance, help use less energy and manage energy costs.

Eversource (NYSE: ES), celebrated as a national leader for its corporate citizenship, is recognized as the #1 U.S. utility on TIME’s List of World’s Best Companies for 2024. Eversource is New Hampshire’s largest electric utility, serving nearly 544,000 homes and businesses in 206 cities and towns, and also supplies water to approximately 10,600 homes and businesses in eight communities. Eversource is proud to be recognized as the #1 contributor to United Way in New Hampshire. Eversource harnesses the commitment of more than 10,000 employees across three states to build a single, united company around the mission of safely delivering reliable energy and water with superior customer service. The #1 energy efficiency provider in the nation, the company is empowering a clean energy future in the Northeast, with nationally recognized energy efficiency solutions and successful programs to integrate new clean energy resources like a first-in-the-nation networked geothermal pilot project, solar, offshore wind, electric vehicles and battery storage, into the electric system. For more information, please visit eversource.com, and follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. For more information on our water services, visit aquarionwater.com.

CONTACT:
William Hinkle
603-634-2228
william.hinkle@eversource.com