Eversource outlines multi‑tier electric discount rate and assistance options for Simsbury residents

Eversource representatives briefed the Board of Selectmen July 14 on recent changes to electric supply rates and a new multi‑tier discount program designed to help low‑ and moderate‑income households.

Mark Massaro, the company’s community relations specialist, said state regulators revised the program so discounts now range across tiers — roughly 5% up to 50% — depending on household income and participation in assistance programs. He advised residents who receive federal energy or state public‑assistance benefits to contact the company or local community action agencies to enroll.

Massaro said the average Eversource residential customer in Connecticut uses about 700 kilowatt‑hours per month and should see modest supply‑price savings compared with last year. He noted that the discount applies only to a capped amount of usage (1,200 kWh per month for electrified homes; 800 kWh for non‑electric heat customers) and that customers may still save by shopping third‑party suppliers.

The presentation included non‑income programs such as extended payment plans, a matching payment forgiveness program for customers with arrearages, and a temporary zero‑cost Home Energy Solutions audit. “For the next two months, (the audit) is going to be zero cost,” Massaro said; he urged residents to schedule audits before the October 31 deadline to receive incentives.

Board members asked whether benefits apply to any household member who receives public assistance and how department partners (social services, CRT) will help enroll eligible households. Massaro confirmed that benefit status for any household member generally qualifies the entire household for the income‑based discount and said community action agencies and Department of Social Services typically certify eligibility on behalf of residents.

Massaro left brochures and said Eversource can provide more material to social services and the senior center. He recommended residents who struggle to pay call Eversource’s customer service or local agencies; Operation Fuel and the Greystone Foundation were mentioned as additional local resources.

The board did not take formal action; staff said they will post outreach materials from Eversource and encourage the utility to coordinate with social‑services staff on enrollment and outreach.