Proposed Gas Rate Hikes Could Significantly Increase Mass. Utility Bills

National Grid seeks approval for rate increases up to 38% for some customers

Apr. 6, 2026 at 11:27am

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Massachusetts gas customers could see significant increases on their utility bills if proposed gas distribution rate hikes from National Grid are approved, with potential increases ranging from about 10% to as much as 38%. The Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities will decide whether to approve the new rates, which would take effect on December 1, 2026 if approved.

Why it matters

The proposed rate hikes could have a major financial impact on Massachusetts residents and businesses, especially during a time of high inflation and economic uncertainty. The Attorney General's Office has already raised concerns about the affordability of the increases.

The details

According to National Grid's estimates, the typical residential heating customer in the Boston Gas service area could see their monthly bill increase by about $23.66 during the winter, an 8.4% increase. In the Colonial Gas service area, residential heating customers could see an average monthly increase of around $25, or 9.4%. For commercial and industrial customers, the impact would vary widely, with bills potentially decreasing by up to 37.5% or increasing by as much as 37.8%.

  • The public meeting to discuss the proposed changes is scheduled for Monday, April 7, 2026 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Breed Middle School in Lynn.
  • If approved, the new gas distribution rates would take effect on December 1, 2026.

The players

National Grid

The utility company that has proposed the gas distribution rate hikes in Massachusetts.

Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities

The state agency that will decide whether to approve or reject the proposed gas rate increases.

Massachusetts Attorney General's Office

The state's top law enforcement office that has already raised concerns about the affordability of the proposed rate hikes.

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What they’re saying

“The proposed rate hikes could have a major financial impact on Massachusetts residents and businesses, especially during a time of high inflation and economic uncertainty.”

— Massachusetts Attorney General's Office

What’s next

The Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities will hold additional public hearings throughout April to gather feedback from residents and business owners before deciding whether to approve or reject the proposed gas distribution rate increases.

The takeaway

The proposed gas rate hikes could significantly strain household and business budgets in Massachusetts, raising concerns about affordability and the potential impact on the state's economic recovery. The public will have opportunities to voice their concerns before the final decision is made.