Mayor D.J. Beauregard is demanding immediate action from the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) to address the unacceptable surge in natural gas rates that has placed an overwhelming financial burden on Methuen residents.
In a letter sent today to DPU Chair Jamie Van Nostrand, Mayor Beauregard condemned the excessive gas delivery charges imposed by Eversource, noting that while the company’s CEO earns nearly $19 million annually, hardworking families and small businesses in Methuen are being unfairly squeezed.
"People cannot simply absorb these outrageous increases – especially individuals and families living on fixed or limited incomes," said Mayor Beauregard. "The pillaging of Methuen’s residents by greedy utility companies must stop."
The mayor pointed to Methuen’s successful efforts in securing lower electricity rates through the city’s Community Choice Power Supply Program, which has resulted in rates 20% lower than National Grid’s basic service rate this winter. Now, he is calling on state regulators to take similar action for natural gas consumers.
“In 2023, the DPU stepped in to stabilize electricity rates at the state level. Now, you must do the same for natural gas,” Mayor Beauregard urged in his letter. “It is critical to make rates predictable, expand discount programs for those in need, and ease the burden on struggling households.”
Mayor Beauregard is urging the DPU to act swiftly to protect Methuen residents from further financial hardship. “Enough is enough,” he stated. “Please do the right thing and act now.”
For further inquiries, please contact:
Jordan Normandia, Executive Assistant to the Mayor
jnormandia@ci.methuen.ma.us
(978) 983-8506