Energy supply rate changes could add about $15 to monthly electric bills

Most local utilities are set to raise supply charges by between 2 and 3 cents per kilowatt-hour.

Granite Staters should prepare for a higher electric bill beginning Aug. 1, when utility companies across New Hampshire update their energy supply rates. For the average customer, the change could mean roughly $15 more each month.

Most local utilities are set to raise supply charges by between 2 and 3 cents per kilowatt-hour. Companies said those prices are tied to the market and are adjusted twice a year, in February and August, with no profit made on the supply portion.

Utility officials pointed to the ongoing war in Iran and a colder-than-usual winter as factors pushing rates upward this time. Even so, they said customers are not locked in and can compare alternatives through other suppliers or community power aggregators.

Eversource’s William Hinkle encouraged customers to review the options available to them, saying having choices benefits consumers and can help them find the best fit. Unitil’s Alec O’Meara also advised customers to understand the market and compare plans before deciding what works best.

Gov. Kelly Ayotte said she was disappointed, though not surprised, that utility companies have not worked with the state to reduce costs. Consumer Advocate Donald Kreis urged residents to explore the New Hampshire Saves program for ways to improve home energy efficiency and cut expenses.