“Natural gas bill on a kitchen table showing rising energy costs for Massachusetts households

National Grid Proposes Gas Rate Hike in Massachusetts: How Much Bills Could Increase

December 19, 2025 · By sheploocloud@gmail.com · In Business & Tech

Massachusetts Gas Bills Could Rise as National Grid Seeks Rate Increase

Massachusetts — National Grid has submitted a proposal that would raise natural gas rates for customers across Massachusetts by nearly 10%, with the increase expected to take effect in 2027 if approved by regulators.

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Under the proposal, customers in the company’s Boston Gas service area, which covers much of Greater
Boston and parts of central Massachusetts, would see their average winter heating bills rise by approximately $24 per month. Customers served by Colonial Gas, including areas on Cape Cod and in the Merrimack Valley, would face an average monthly increase of about $25 during the winter season.

National Grid Cites Safety and Reliability Investments

National Grid says the proposed rate hike is necessary to fund critical upgrades to its natural gas
infrastructure, emphasizing system safety and long-term reliability.

In a statement, a company spokesperson acknowledged the financial strain many customers are facing, saying the utility is committed to minimizing the impact while addressing essential operational needs.

“We recognize the cost pressures affecting our customers and communities and are committed to using every tool at our disposal to ease short-term pressures and manage long-term costs within our control,” the spokesperson said.

Affordability Measures Proposed

Alongside the rate increase, National Grid says it plans to introduce new affordability programs aimed at easing the burden on households. These measures include options to spread energy costs more evenly throughout the year and an expansion of discounted rates for income-eligible customers.

The company argues that these initiatives could help offset some of the financial impact, particularly for lower-income residents and those most affected by seasonal spikes in heating costs.

State Pushback and Regulatory Review

The proposal comes as Massachusetts officials intensify efforts to rein in rising energy costs statewide. The Department of Public Utilities (DPU) recently launched a detailed review of customer utility bills, examining individual cost components in response to growing concerns over affordability.

In announcing the investigation, the department noted that both electricity and natural gas prices in Massachusetts have increased faster than inflation, creating financial hardship for many residents.

Governor Healey Opposes the Increase

Natural gas infrastructure in Massachusetts amid National Grid proposal to increase gas rates

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has publicly voiced strong opposition to National Grid’s proposed rate hike, calling the timing especially troubling for families already struggling with high living costs.

“This proposed increase by National Grid could not come at a worse time for people, and we will strongly oppose it,” Healey said in a statement. “Energy costs are already too high, and we are working on every front to lower them.”

What Comes Next

The proposed rate increase will now undergo regulatory review, with state officials expected to scrutinize National Grid’s justification, cost projections, and consumer impact. Public input and hearings may also play a role before any final decision is made.

For now, Massachusetts residents are watching closely, as the outcome could significantly affect household energy bills at a time when affordability remains a top concern across the state.