Governor Healey Announces Winter Energy Relief for Massachusetts Families
Governor announces nearly $150 million in relief for heating and electric bills, declares a State of Energy Emergency.
Date: October 7, 2026
Governor Maura Healey has declared a State of Energy Emergency aimed at providing financial relief to Massachusetts families facing high heating and electric bills this winter. The plan involves the removal of certain charges from electric bills, expanded heating assistance, and the creation of a new Emergency Winter Warmth Fund in collaboration with Citizens Energy Corporation.
Key components of the plan include:
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New Middle Class Home Heating Oil Assistance:
For the first time, households earning between 60% and 100% of State Median Income will receive assistance. This is expected to help about 50,000 families, with potential benefits up to $680. -
Increased Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) Benefits:
$15 million will be added to support approximately 156,000 low-income households. HEAP benefits for oil heating households will increase by 20%, and by 15% for utility-heated homes. -
Elimination of SMART Charges:
The state will temporarily cover the Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target (SMART) program charge for three months, aiming to save $80 million for residential and commercial electric bills. -
Reducing Alternative Energy Portfolio Standards:
A 50% reduction in the Alternative Energy Portfolio Standard is expected to further lower energy costs by an estimated $20 million. -
Emergency Winter Warmth Fund:
Citizens Energy will contribute $100,000 to this fund to assist families struggling with heating costs.
Governor Healey emphasized the importance of these actions, stating, “We’re delivering nearly $150 million in savings…This is about meeting the moment and lowering costs for people across Massachusetts.”
For more details on eligibility and assistance programs, visit mass.gov/heatinghelp.
Context and Background
Heating oil prices have surged, with current average costs at $6.08 per gallon, 70% higher compared to last year. The Governor’s initiative also includes protections against price gouging in the petroleum market, aimed at safeguarding consumers from inflated costs.
This relief package is part of Governor Healey’s broader commitment to reducing energy and transportation costs for residents, ensuring that families do not face difficult decisions between heating their homes and managing essential needs.
