Eversource asks state for a 21% hike

Eversource has asked the Department of Public Utilities for a 21% increase in electricity supply rates for its Western Massachusetts customers that could go into effect Jan. 1.

If approved, the proposed Basic Service Rate for residential customers who receive their energy supply from Eversource would change from the current 15.348 cents per kilowatt-hour to 21.864 cents per kilowatt-hour.

The rate was 13.731 cents per kilowatt-hour last winter.

On average, an Eversource residential electric customer who uses 600 kilowatt hours of power each month could see an increase on the supply portion of the bill of about 21% over their current monthly bill — or approximately $39.09 per month.

The company said electricity prices have climbed because of a high demand for natural gas worldwide.

Eversource encourages customers to enroll in one of its payment plans or assistance programs if they need help with their energy bills, and the energy company also offers energy efficiency solutions to help customers use less energy and better manage costs.

Eversource also has a separate request to increase its delivery charge.

Penni Conner, an Eversource executive vice president, said the company recognized that an increase of energy costs could be frustrating for individuals already facing rising prices for their basic needs.

“We’re here to work with our customers one-on-one on ways to reduce their energy usage and connect them with assistance programs, flexible payment plans or other resources to help them manage their monthly bill,” Conner said. “We also remind customers they can compare energy prices at Energy Switch Massachusetts and sign up with a competitive supplier for their energy supply if they choose.”

In Massachusetts, energy supply prices change twice a year — Jan. 1 and July 1 — for customers of investor-owned utilities. This reflects changes in the cost of supplying power.