Massachusetts Governor’s Actions to Lower Winter Energy Bills
BOSTON — Governor Maura Healey announced new measures on Monday aimed at reducing winter energy bills for households across Massachusetts.
Key Actions:
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State of Energy Emergency:
- An official declaration has been made, expanding eligibility for home heating assistance and eliminating charges from electric bills.
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New Home Heating Assistance Program:
- Approximately 50,000 middle-class households that rely on heating oil will qualify for assistance for the first time.
- Eligible families of four earning between $103,049 and $171,749 may receive up to $680 in benefits starting in December until April 30, 2027.
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Increased Heating Assistance for Low-Income Households:
- An additional $15 million will boost winter heating assistance for around 156,000 low-income households through the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP).
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Elimination of Charges on Electric Bills:
- The SMART program charge will be waived on residential bills for three months, amounting to $80 million in relief.
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Reduction of Alternative Energy Portfolio Standard:
- A 50% cut in the Alternative Portfolio Standard is implemented to save ratepayers approximately $20 million this winter.
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Emergency Winter Warmth Fund:
- In collaboration with Citizens Energy Corporation, a new fund will start with $100,000 to assist families with heating costs.
Cost Trends:
- Heating oil costs have surged by 70% compared to last winter, averaging $6.08 per gallon as of late September.
Additional Efforts:
- Governor Healey is urging Congress for an extra $3 billion to support LIHEAP funding, totaling $7 billion to further assist low-income households.
Political Context:
- The governor’s proposals come amid heightened discussions regarding energy affordability, with Republican candidate Mike Minogue criticizing current policies and proposing his strategies to reduce energy costs.
For more details, visit mass.gov/heatinghelp and citizensenergy.com/warmth.
Impact
The plan aims to affect approximately 85% of utility ratepayers, with a significant focus on supporting both low-income and middle-class families during the challenging winter months.
