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Eversource outlines new tiered electric discount program and assistance options for residents
Summary
An Eversource representative briefed the board on a new tiered electric discount program and other customer assistance options, including income‑based discounts, third‑party supply choices and a free home energy audit program running through Oct. 31.
Mark Massaro, community relations and economic development specialist for Eversource, briefed selectmen on recent state and company changes to electric supply rates and a new tiered discount program introduced in 2024 and expanded in 2025. The presentation summarized income‑based discounts, customer assistance resources and energy‑efficiency incentives available to Simsbury residents.
Massaro explained the state‑created electric discount program has been restructured into multiple tiers — ranging from an initial 5 percent discount for households that qualify under federal fuel‑assistance guidelines to higher discounts (up to 50 percent) based on income and benefit status. He said customers who qualify for federal energy assistance should automatically receive the 5 percent discount and that the program includes caps on how many kilowatt hours are discounted each month depending on whether a home uses electric heat.
The Eversource presentation also emphasized that supply charges are a pass‑through and that customers can shop for third‑party supply contracts; the utility encourages attention to contract expiration dates. Massaro highlighted other programs: the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (administered locally through CRT), Operation Fuel for emergency assistance and an energy‑efficiency initiative called Home Energy Solutions that will offer no‑cost audits through Oct. 31. "On average, an Eversource electric customer is about 700 kilowatt hours a month across the full year," Massaro said, and he urged residents eligible for assistance to contact local social‑service agencies or Eversource customer care for enrollment.
Board members asked staff to circulate Eversource materials to social services and the senior center; Massaro said he would leave brochures and follow up with local agencies. There was no formal board action on the item; the briefing served to inform residents and staff about new programs residents can access directly.
