National Grid Massachusetts and Eversource Massachusetts are the two main utilities. Both offer Basic Service that adjusts every 6 months. Competitive suppliers can lock 12 to 24 months. A 24-month lock signed during a low Basic Service window typically saves 14 to 24 percent. Boston-area Community Choice Aggregations (CCAs) provide a third option, often beating both Basic Service and competitive locked rates.
National Grid vs Eversource MA
National Grid Massachusetts serves central and western MA. Eversource Massachusetts serves eastern MA including the Boston metro. Both are regulated by the MA Department of Public Utilities (DPU).
Both utilities update Basic Service every 6 months. Basic Service is what customers pay if they have not enrolled with a competitive supplier or joined a CCA.
Community Choice Aggregations (CCAs)
Boston, Cambridge, Somerville, Brookline, and many other MA municipalities run CCAs. The CCA negotiates a bundled supply contract for residents.
CCAs typically offer two products: a default product (similar pricing to Basic Service but with more renewable content) and a green option (100 percent renewable, higher rate). Most CCAs beat Basic Service consistently.
Lock strategy for MA residents
Option 1: join the local CCA if available. No-action option that typically beats Basic Service by 4 to 8 percent.
Option 2: lock a competitive supplier directly. Can beat both CCA and Basic Service by another 3 to 8 percent if timed well in the August through October window.
Option 3: stay on Basic Service. The default option. Almost always pays more than 1 or 2 above.
Lock the rate before the next reset.
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Quick answers from the editorial desk
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Further reading