How to comment
The DPU seeks input from residents whose budgets are strained from paying their utility bills while trying to make ends meet, as well as other stakeholders. Please send written comments and questions by Friday, March 1, 2024, to dpu.efiling@mass.gov. Please specify the docket number for the NOI (D.P.U. 24-15), your name or entity submitting the comment, and that the document is a written comment. You do not need to submit your comments in PDF.
The DPU strongly encourages comments and documents to be submitted via email. However, if you are unable to send written comments in email form, you can send a paper copy to Mark D. Marini, Secretary, Department of Public Utilities, One South Station, Boston, MA 02110.
Summary
On January 4, 2024, the Department of Public Utilities (DPU) voted to open an inquiry to examine energy burden with a focus on energy affordability for residential ratepayers. Notice of Inquiry by the Department of Public Utilities
on its own Motion into Energy Burden with a Focus on Energy Affordability for Residential Ratepayers, D.P.U. 24‑15, Vote and Order Opening Inquiry (January 4, 2024) (“Opening Order”).
In the Opening Order, the DPU provided background on these issues, an overview of the current methods that the DPU uses to address energy affordability, and a variety of questions seeking input on how the DPU can reduce the energy burden and address affordability issues. The DPU encourages all interested persons to participate in this proceeding and seeks written comments on this topic by March 1, 2024. Details on how to provide comments may be found in the Notice of Inquiry and Request for Comments, also issued on January 4, 2024. Links to Opening Order, the Notice, and other documents related to this inquiry are available below.
Please see the press release issued by the DPU. (also available in 简体中文 | Kreyòl ayisyen | Português, Brasil | Español)