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Eversource History
Eversource is the product of two giant Massachusetts electricity companies; one with roots in the eastern half, the other in the west.
In the east, the Eversource can trace it history origins back to two of the oldest electric companies in New England; the Edison Edison Electric Illuminating Company of Boston (founded in 1886) and later renamed the Boston Edison Company (BECo) in 1937; and the Cambridge Electric Light Company (founded in 1886).
In 1999, Boston Edison merged with Cambridge Electric Light Company, Commonwealth Electric Company, and NSTAR Gas Company to form NSTAR. At the time, NSTAR served 1.040 million electric customers in 81 cities and towns so it was hoped that economies of scale would reduce Bay State customers bills by 5 percent. Because deregulation had just gotten underway in Massachusetts, NSTAR sold its generators in order to become a distribution-only utility.
In the west, eleven small utility companies banded together in 1927 to form the Western Massachusetts Companies as a way to prevent take overs by outside financial interests. Later changing its name to Western Massachusetts Electric Company (WMECO), it would take until 1942 for it to solidify its control over the western region. In 1966, WMECO joined Connecticut Light and Power Company and Hartford Electric Light Company to form Northeast Utilities.
In April 2012, Boston-area-based NSTAR agreed to become a subsidiary of Northeast Utilities. Finally, in February 2015, Northeast Utilities and all of its operating companies (Western Massachusetts Electric, Public Service New Hampshire, Connecticut Light and Power, Yankee Gas, and NSTAR Gas and Electric) rebranded to one single company known as Eversource Energy. At that point, Eversource retired all its old Northeast Utilities and NSTAR brand names.
Today, Eversource serves 4.4 million customers in Connecticut, New Hampshire, and of course Massachusetts. The company is also committed to supporting the communities and neighborhoods that does business in. These include philanthropic programs through the Eversource Energy Foundation that aid Community Wellness, Clean Energy, and educational opportunities. Eversource and over 4,900 of its employees partner with nonprofit organizations to support a variety of events, including the Hartford Marathon, Walk for Boston Childrens' Hospital, the Easterseals Walk & 5K Run, and many more.
Eversource Service Territory
When Northeast Utilities rebranded in 2015 and became Eversource, it divided its operations into two separate rate zones, each with its own distribution and default supply rates:
- Eversource Energy East or EMA-C
- Eversource Energy West or WMA
Eversource serves over 1.4 million electric customers in 140 cities and towns across Massachusetts:
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Acton Acushnet Adams Agawam Allston Amherst Aquinnah Arlington Ashfield Ashland Assonet Auburndale Barnstable Becket Bedford Belchertown Bellingham Bernardston Blandford Boston Bourne Brewster Brighton Brookline Buckland Burlington Cambridge Canton Carlisle Carver Charlestown Chatham Chelsea Cheshire Chester Chesterfield Chestnut Hill Chicopee Chilmark Colrain Conway Cummington Dalton Dartmouth Dedham Deerfield Dennis Dorchester Dover Duxbury East Boston East Longmeadow Eastham Easthampton Edgartown Erving Fairhaven Falmouth Framingham |
Freetown Gill Granville Greenfield Hadley Hancock Harwich Hatfield Hinsdale Holliston Holyoke Hopkinton Huntington Hyannis Hyde Park Jamaica Plain Kingston Lakeville Lanesboro Lee Lenox Leverett Lexington Leyden Lincoln Longmeadow Ludlow Marion Marshfield Martha's Vineyard Mashpee Mattapan Mattapoisett Maynard Medfield Medway Middleborough Middlefield Millis Milton Montague Montgomery Natick Needham New Ashford New Bedford Newton Newton Center Newton Highlands Newton Lower Falls Newton Upper Falls Newtonville Norfolk Northampton Northfield Oak Bluffs Orleans Otis Pelham |
Pembroke Peru Pittsfield Plainfield Plymouth Plympton Provincetown Readville Richmond Rochester Roslindale Roxbury Russell Sagamore Sandisfield Sandwich Savoy Scituate (Humarock) Sharon Shelburne Sherborn Shutesbury Somerville South Hadley Southampton Southwick Springfield Stoneham Sudbury Sunderland Tisbury Tolland Truro Tyringham Waban Walpole Waltham Wareham Washington Watertown Wayland Wellfleet West Newton West Roxbury West Springfield West Tisbury Westfield Westhampton Weston Westport Westwood Whately Wilbraham Winchester Windsor Woburn Worthington Yarmouth |
Eversource serves these cities in Massachusetts:
Shop for Eversource electricity suppliers in your area.
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Compare Eversource Electricity Rates
Compare alternative supplier electricity rates
in the Eversource service area.
- Enter zip code.
- Select energy type.
- Choose "residential" or "business".
- Click "Shop for Rates".
You'll then get to see the listing of all the energy suppliers' plans available in your area, along with rates, term lengths, and links to more detail information.
Some Massachusetts utilities service territories overlap in some areas. If the tool reports that it has found more than one serving your zip code, don't worry! Just choose your local utility from those listed.
How to Start New Eversource Service
Starting electricity service with Eversource is fast and easy. Just visit the Eversource web site and click on Start Service. You'll need to set up an online account first.
Customers should call the utility's Contact Center if they need their service turned on sooner.
Be ready to supply:
- Service Address: The address where you want your service turned on or switched.
- The start date for electricity service.
- Personal Information: You will need your name, phone number, email address, SSN OR driver's license number, date of birth, and, for commercial customers, Tax ID.
- Unfrozen Credit: If you have frozen your credit with any of the major credit agencies, you will need to have it temporarily unfrozen.
Will I Need to Pay a Deposit?
Massachusetts utilities can not require a deposit to secure payment of utility bills in advance of or as a condition to new or continued residential service.
However, if you owe an electric or gas company money from a previous address, the utility can refuse to set up a new account at your new address for you unless you pay the full amount owed or arrange a payment plan.
Understand Eversource Distribution and Supply Charges
In Massachusetts, your electric bill is composed of the electricity Distribution charges and the Supply charges.
Distribution Charges consist of a flat customer charge per account and a distribution charge in cents per kWh for delivering electricity across the utility's local grid to a customer's home. While Eversource operates two different rates zones (EMC-A and WMA), all residential customers within the same rate zone pay the same distribution rate no matter who supplies their electricity. Delivery rates change twice each year (on January 1 and July 1) and the amount depends on several factors. Rates are also subject to change at the discretion of the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU).
Electricity Supply Charges represent the cost for the electricity supplied in kWh by your utility or a retail supplier. Energy Choice charges from "alternative" or retail suppliers are listed on your bill under "Charges from Electric Generation Supplier".
Eversource Fixed and Variable Rates
Eversource offers two kinds of electricity default supply plans: a six month fixed rate and a monthly variable rate.
The company puts all residential Massachusetts customers on a fixed rate when they first open their account. Of course, you may choose the monthly variable rate, however you can only do this once. But be careful because Eversource's monthly variable rate will change each month to reflect the actual cost of electricity purchased each month.
While the 6 month fixed rate offers some protection from swinging prices and sustained inflation, longer term fixed rate plans offered by retail energy suppliers can yield better savings over the long haul.
What is the Eversource Basic Supply Rate?
Eversource's Basic Supply Rate is a DPU-approved default rate for electricity generation supply if you don't want to shop for retail supplier. Also called the "Price to Compare" or PTC, this rate is a pass-through and represents the actual price Eversource pays for the electricity.
The price Eversource pays breaks down into two principal pieces. First is the cost for the generated electricity. This is set during periodic supply auctions. The other piece is the cost of transmitting that generated high volatge electricity over the bulk power line grid to Eversource's substation transformers for local distribution. Bulk transmission charges must be approved by the Massachusetts DPU.
Periodic auctions for residential generation supply are held about usually twice a year. Rates are divided into summer and winter pricing. New Basic Supply Rate summer rates, usually higher, last from July 1 through December 31. Winter rates begin January 1 and last through June 30.
- Because Eversource's "fixed" Basic Supply Rate rate changes every 6 months, customers can use the Basic Supply Rate to compare prices with energy retailer plans to see which offers them better value for their needs.
- Plus, because Basic Supply Rate rates are usually announced 12 months in advance, customers can also compare long term plan prices from retailers to save even more.
The Current Eversource Basic Supply Rate Rate
Residential rate:
25.776 cents per kWh in Eversource Energy East EMA-C, expires 9/30/2023
cents per kWh in Eversource Energy West WMA, expires 9/30/2023
NOTE -- In Massachusetts, there are about 50 municipally-owned electric companies with local "municipal light plants" that provide electricity to their citizens. These local companies determine their own rates and many prohibit residents from shopping for their own provider.
Which Costs More? Eversource Basic Supply Rate vs Energy Choice
The EIA estimates that the average Massachusetts monthly usage rate is around 596 kWh. So, in November, 2022, the average Eversource PTC bill in eastern Massachusetts (EMA-C) roughly breaks down like this:
| Rate per 596 kWh Used | Monthly Customer Charge | Total | |
| PTC Supply Rate | 25.776 cents | 0 | $153.62 |
| Monthly Distribution Charges | $0.11974 (effective July. 1, 2022) does not include Energy Efficiency Charges for Greater Boston, Cape Cod, or Martha's Vineyard. |
$7.00 (effective July. 1, 2022) |
$78.37 |
| Total Bill | $231.99 |
Understand Massachusetts Energy Choice
Massachusetts's electricity customers are free to choose a state certified retail electricity supplier. There are many different providers in Eversource service area offering a variety of plans at competitive rates.
Certified retail suppliers compete with each other to buy cheap electricity on the wholesale markets so they can attract more consumers with the lowest rates. That way, residents can compare and shop to find the best deal that best suits for their needs. For this reason, Massachusetts retail supplier's electricity rates are not controlled by DPU. While shopping for electricity may seem confusing, customers can use their utility's PTC to compare offers by certified retail electricity suppliers. This way you can more easily judge which are the cheapest rates.
Shopping for the right electricity plan at the right rate is generally a straightforward process. But not everyone has the same needs. And while retail electricity suppliers in Massachusetts also provide fixed rate and variable rate plans, they are able to offer many more variations and incentives that better fit customer needs.
Understand Your Eversource Electric Usage
While your electricity usage habits are unique to you, any Massachusetts native will tell you that winters can get chilly and snowy while summers can get hot and miserably humid.
Not sure how much electricity you really use? Eversource customers can request 13 months of their electric usage plus other relevant information free of charge.
The best way to cut your electricity bill is to reduce your usage:
Your utility company can provide a wealth of resources and offers programs to help you improve your home's energy performance.
Understanding Your Eversource Bill
Your Eversource bill comes packed full with lots of information. Though these can be confusing to customers, they also help you better understand your usage and rate. Here is where we break down the most important items on a sample Eversource electric bill.
- A: Bill Overview. It states your names and 11 digit account number with Eversource. It also shows the date Eversource issued the bill.
- B: total amount due. This shows the total amount due and the due date, the amount of your last payment and when it was received, and any unpaid amount that was carried forward.
- C: Electricity Usage. This shows your electric usage history in kWh for the past 13 months. You can use this graph to see when you used the most energy and plan in advance.
- D: Electricity supply & delivery charges. This section shows the amounts you are being billed for electricity supply and Eversource's delivery charges.
- E: Average Daily Electric Usage. The electric usage summary shows your average daily electric usage for the past month and how it compares to your usage for the same time last year. .
- F: This section identifies your current electric supplier.
- G: This "News For You" section displays information from Eversource for its customers in Massachusetts.
- H: Bill Stub. This section shows your mailing address, Eversource account number, the total due for this bill, and provides a space to write the amount closed. You can detach this stub and mail it into Eversource with your payment.
- Page Two
- I: Bill Overview. Used here to summarize your account information.
- J: Electric Account Summary. Breaks down the current amount due, the due date, the last payment received, balance forward, any charge credits, the electricity supply and delivery charges, and the total current charges.
- K: Service break down information. This shows the service address, the rate type, the Calendar dates, and meter information.
- L: Monthly kWh Usage. This shows the actual kWh usage for the past 13 months. It can be used to help you anticipate and plan for those months that you use the most energy.
- M: Total Charges for Electricity. This is a complete breakdown of your bill. It includes charges from your electricity supplier or Eversource Basic Service. It also shows a break down of the charges involved in the distribution charge portion of your bill.
Eversource Coupons, Energy Promotions, Discounts, Rebates and Promo Codes
As your local utility, Eversource offers few options and discounts available to help its customers save some money. Some programs offer money-saving incentives while others could make paying your monthly bills easier and may even help you qualify for a discounted electricity rate.
| Program Name | Program Type | Benefit |
| Appliance and HVAC Rebates Program | Energy Efficiency Rebate Program | Massachusetts residential customers of Eversource can now take advantage of rebates on the purchase of ENERGY STAR®certified appliances and HVAC systems.
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| Appliance Recylcing Program | Energy Efficiency Rebate Program | Recycle your old working fridge or freezer and get $75. You can also receive a $30 rebate for an old, working dehumidifiers unit if picked up along with a qualifying fridge or freezer. Plus, you can save money on your electricity bill when you purchase a new ENERGY STAR® appliance to replace it.
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| Energy Efficient New Homes | Energy Efficiency Rebate Program | Eversource is working closely with Massachusetts builders and Mass Save to construct energy-efficient homes that deliver more than just energy savings. Participants enroll with HERS (Home Energy Rating System) companies. Eversource encourages participants to build new homes that meet ENERGY STAR?® certification when practical. An energy-efficient home is one that is 30% more efficient than a code-built home (2009 IECC). |
| Home Energy Assessment | Energy Efficiency Rebate Program | Eversource customers can sign up for an online Home Energy Assessment or schedule an in-person visit with an Energy Specialist. You'll receive an energy report tailored specifically to your home and receive energy-saving products delivered free to your home. If you choose the visit, an Energy Specialist will:
Customers who meet household income guidelines may be eligible for up to 100% off insulation, plus additional offers, through the Income Eligible and Enhanced Residential programs. |
| Eversource Payment Arrangements | Bill payment assistance | Eversource bill payment plans are available for up to 12 months.
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| Eversource Gift of Energy | Bill payment assistance | You can make a payment toward a friend or family member's Eversource bill. Your gift will appear on a future bill as a credit to the recipient's Eversource bill. |
| Fuel Assistance | Bill payment assistance | If your gross income is at or below 60 percent of the state median income, you may qualify for assistance toward your utility bills. To apply, contact your local Community Action Agency. |
| Energy Efficiency for Lower Income Customers | Residential Energy Efficiency | Eversource customers who currently receive the Discount Rate may be eligible for a variety of no-cost energy efficiency improvements to reduce their energy bills through home weatherization and conservation with installation of materials and equipment at no charge. Just sign up for a no-cost Home Energy Assessment. An Energy Specialist will assess your home and install complimentary energy-saving products like energy-efficient light bulbs, smart power strips, water saving devices and more. |
| Eversource Discount Rate | Bill payment assistance | Customers may be eligible for the Eversource Discount Rate if they a residential customer, have the utility bill in their name, have a household income that meets eligibility requirements, and receives one of the benefits listed on the application:
For additional information, contact your local Community Action Agency. |
| Good Neighbor Energy Fund | Bill payment assistance | The Good Neighbor Energy Fund is a cooperative effort between sponsoring Massachusetts energy companies and caring neighbors throughout the Commonwealth. The helps residents in temporary crisis who are struggling to pay their energy bills and do not qualify for federal or state energy funds. The program is overseen by The Salvation Army of Massachusetts. Eversource customers can help by contributing via the "Give the Gift of Warmth" donation envelopes which are included in monthly electricity bills or by going to magoodneighbor.org. |
Eversource Reviews
Because Eversource serves a large-sized market, knowing how well it ranks among other similar-sized utilities can tell you a lot about how well it serves its customers. Eversource is accredited with the BBB and the utility was in the top ten eastern utilities in Escalent's 2021 Utility Trusted Brand & Customer Engagement™: Residential study. However, it ranked below average in J.D. Power's 2021 Electric Utility Residential Customer Satisfaction Study.
| MA Energy Ratings | Better Business Bureau | Escalent 2021 Utility Study | J.D. Power 2021 |
| N/A | accredited, A- rating |
636 of 1000 pts |
700 of 1000 pts |
How do I get the Cheapest Eversource Rate?
Shopping for a new Energy Choice Plan can feel confusing at first. But, there are 3 things you should have with you when you shop for electricity:
- The current Eversource Basic Supply Rate rate and expiration date. You can use Eversource Basic Supply Rate to quickly compare retail supplier offers to shop for a better electricity rate. You can choose the utility's rate but remember that it changes every 6 months.
- Your current bill. Your past usage per billing period can help you estimate a how much a plan might cost you each month. Also, if the Eversource rate will increase after 6 months, you can estimate your potential savings with a longer term plan over time.
- Your Eversource account number. Your 11 digit account number is at the top of your bill. Having this handy lets you sign up with an alternative electricity supplier right away.
Before you start shopping, there's some final last details you also need to understand ahead of time:
Who bills me? Eversource sends a single bill that outlines and add up your monthly charges.
What are the Terms of Service? The Terms of Service explain and identify specific charges and any fees a customer will face when they sign up for an electricity plan. Many suppliers offer different rates for plans with different term lengths. All Massachusetts electricity customers should read and understand the terms of service and contract summary for any plan they are interested in before they sign on to the plan.
What are early termination fees? Switching retail suppliers before a contract ends can involve paying early termination fees. These can bite you if you want to switch retail providers before your electricity plan contract ends.
Read Eversource Customer Reviews
Compare Massachusetts Electricity Rates in Your Area
Electricity Out? Wires Down? Here's Who You Contact...
Having a problem with your electricity service? Here's the proper people to call:
Eversource Billing Problems
If you have trouble paying your monthly bill call Eversource's Customer Service:
Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET
You can learn what options are available. Be sure to have your account number ready. You can also apply for payment methods online through your Eversource account.
Consider the Budget Billing Plan: If you are constantly blind-sided by seasonally high bills, Eversource's Budget Billing spreads your costs evenly month to month by charging a pre-arranged amount with each bill. This ensures that customers aren't presented with unexpectedly high bills at peak-usuage times of the year.
In the Dark?
You can report outages or downed powerlines in your area by calling Eversource's Customer Service. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
You can also report an outage on-line:
All power transmission lines are extremely dangerous! Never attempt to move a downed power line by yourself. Call 911 and then notifiy Eversource's Customer Service!
What!? There's still no power?
You can track outage repairs throughout Eversource service area on this map.
Latest Eversource News
Eversource Service Area Electricity Providers
| Company | Rating | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Constellation | (4.5/5) |
855-798-9075 |
| Direct Energy | (3.8/5) |
844-225-3948 |
| Green Mountain Energy | (3.3/5) |
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| NextEra Energy Services | (3.1/5) |
855-639-8091 |
| NRG Home | (3.1/5) |
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| Sunwave Gas & Power | (3/5) |
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| Verde Energy | (3/5) |
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| XOOM Energy | (3/5) |
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| SFE Energy | (3/5) |
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| CleanSky Energy | (3/5) |
800-581-1016 |
| ENGIE | (2.9/5) |
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| National Gas & Electric | (2.6/5) |
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| Major Energy | (2.3/5) |
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| MAG&E | (2/5) |
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| 14 results | ||
© 2023 MA Energy Ratings — Rates as of
