NEW HAMPSHIRE (MyKeeneNow) As summer temperatures push electricity usage higher across New Hampshire, Eversource is stepping in with new outreach efforts aimed at helping customers manage their energy bills ahead of rate changes set for August.

The state’s largest electric utility will hold a free webinar Tuesday afternoon to share information about assistance programs and energy efficiency resources. The company is also planning in-person events, including a session Wednesday evening at the Nashua Public Library, where customers can get one-on-one support.

According to Eversource, the average residential customer uses about 20% more electricity during the summer months—largely due to air conditioning and cooling appliances. That typical spike in usage is coinciding this year with an increase in the Default Service supply rate, which will rise from 8.9 cents to 11.2 cents per kilowatt-hour on August 1. For customers using an average of 600 kilowatt-hours monthly, that means an estimated $13.61 increase on their bill—about a 9.9% jump.

In addition to the supply rate change, Eversource expects other adjustments tied to storm recovery costs and distribution rate updates, pending final approval from the New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission later this month.

Penni Conner, the company’s executive vice president of customer experience and energy strategy, said in a statement that Eversource is reaching out now because customers are already feeling the effects of higher energy usage, even before the rate changes take effect. She noted that while the full scope of the bill increases won’t be known until state regulators finalize their decision, now is the time for customers to prepare and explore assistance options.

Eversource is encouraging customers to learn more about their supplier choices, since not all are on the utility’s Default Service rate. Nearly half of residential customers in New Hampshire receive electricity from community power programs or other suppliers and won’t be directly affected by the August supply rate increase.

The company offers a range of programs for customers facing financial difficulties, including:

  • New Start Program – Allows income-eligible customers to reduce or erase overdue balances in as little as a year through regular payments.

  • Electric Assistance Program – Offers discounted rates for households that meet income requirements.

  • Flexible Payment Plans – Open to all customers regardless of income.

  • Budget Billing – Spreads out payments evenly across the year to avoid spikes.

  • Energy efficiency incentives – Help lower overall usage and reduce costs long-term.

Customers can register for Tuesday’s webinar on Eversource’s website. Those unable to attend can also call 800-662-7764 or visit Eversource.com for more information.