That the City Manager is requested to direct the appropriate City staff to explore potential actions the City can take to mitigate the impact of Eversource price hikes

O-1 FIRST IN COUNCIL March 3, 2025 City of Cambridge MAYOR SIMMONS VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN COUNCILLOR TONER WHEREAS: Last year, the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities approved natural gas rate increases for Eversource and National Grid customers, and the new rates took effect on November 1, 2024; and WHEREAS: At that time, it was projected that approximately 500,000 Eversource customers would see their gas bills increase by 25-30 percent, meaning a typical $250 bill could rise to $325, placing a significant financial burden on households, especially during the winter heating season; and WHEREAS: Numerous Cambridge residents have reported sudden and substantial increases in their Eversource gas bills, with some experiencing monthly hikes of over $300; and WHEREAS: These increases have been attributed to factors including surcharges for energy efficiency programs, costs associated with infrastructure upgrades, and expenses related to assistance programs for low-income residents; and WHEREAS: The financial burden of these rising utility costs presents significant challenges for many residents, particularly those on fixed or limited incomes; now therefore be it ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the appropriate City staff to engage with Eversource to evaluate the specific factors contributing to these rate increases, including surcharges for energy efficiency programs, infrastructure improvements, and low-income assistance program costs; and be it further ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the appropriate City staff to explore potential actions the City can take to mitigate the impact of these rate hikes, including but not limited to: • Advocating on behalf of Cambridge residents before the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities regarding future rate adjustments; • Investigating alternative energy sources or suppliers to provide more affordable options for residents; and • Developing or expanding local programs to assist residents facing financial hardship due to rising utility costs, including increased outreach on existing assistance programs such as HEAP; and be it further ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council with findings and recommendations within 30 days.