Financial Help, Payment Plans Available for Westford Residents Facing Big National Grid Rate Hike

Electric rates for National Grid customers are set to rise 37 percent starting Nov. 1.

The rate hike shakes out to about $33 more per month for the average customer.

National Grid blamed higher power supply prices for the increase.

“Energy supply prices are set by the commodity market, not National Grid,” the company said in a statement. “When we purchase energy on your behalf, we pass on those costs directly without a markup.”

“We know how concerning this may be for customers.”

Some lawmakers called for an investigation of the rate hike to see if it complies with state law and if it could be rolled back.

National Grid has a budget plan that allows customers to spread out payments over the course of a year. There several state and federal assistance programs for low-income customers. You can also find energy efficiency tips here.

Photo credit: Robert Gates