Massachusetts DPU Suspends National Grid $342M Gas Rate Hike Pending December Decision

Policy & Markets Regulatory State & Local Regulation
Marin Holt
January 16, 2026
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4 minutes read

Amount of rate hike sought: $342 million
Docket number: DPU 26-50
Date of filing: January 16, 2026
Suspension end date: December 1, 2026
Decision deadline: November 30, 2026

National Grid has filed a rate case with the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) seeking $342 million in additional gas distribution revenue. The filing, Docket DPU 26-50, was submitted on January 16, 2026. If approved, a typical residential heating customer in the Boston Gas territory would face a $23.66 monthly increase during the winter, while those in the Colonial Gas territory would see a $24.76 monthly increase. The DPU has suspended the proposed rates until December 1, 2026, to investigate the request.

What Changed

According to the Mass.gov DPU website, National Grid’s filing is available for public review. The company’s proposal outlines the need for increased revenue to support its gas distribution operations. National Grid’s website also provides information on the rate case, including the proposed rate changes. The suspension of the proposed rates by the DPU will allow for a thorough review of the request, with a decision deadline set for November 30, 2026.

Why It Matters

The proposed rate hike would have a significant impact on National Grid’s customers, particularly low-income households and large commercial and industrial users. As noted by No Fracked Gas in Mass, a trade organization, the rate increase would be a substantial burden on many customers. The DPU’s decision to suspend the proposed rates will provide an opportunity for stakeholders to review and comment on the request. According to National Grid’s filing, the company is seeking to increase its revenue to support its operations and maintain the safety and reliability of its gas distribution system.

Critical Perspective

Critics of the proposed rate hike, including No Fracked Gas in Mass, argue that the increase is excessive and would disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. The organization’s website notes that the rate hike would be a significant burden on many customers, and that alternative solutions should be explored. The DPU’s investigation and review of the proposed rates will be crucial in determining whether the requested revenue increase is justified. As stated by the Mass.gov DPU website, the DPU will carefully review the filing and consider comments from stakeholders before making a decision on the proposed rate hike.