National Grid is stepping up for families in Worcester County as winter energy bills rise. From Monday, Nov. 9 through Monday, Dec. 7, the utility’s customer‑advocacy team will hold six free, in‑person sessions in locations across the county. A statewide virtual session is also scheduled for noon to 1 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 30, for anyone who cannot attend locally.
What attendees can expect
At each session, National Grid advocates will answer billing questions, review payment options and determine eligibility for the utility’s new tiered discount program. They will walk participants through the Budget Plan, which spreads energy costs evenly over 12 months, and the Arrears Management Program, designed to help qualifying customers pay down past‑due balances.
New income‑based discount expands to gas customers
The centerpiece of the fall outreach is a newly‑implemented tiered discount that took effect on Sunday, Nov. 1. The Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) mandated a statewide, income‑based discount structure for both gas and electric customers. National Grid’s version offers six levels of support based on household size, gross annual income or enrollment in a qualifying benefit program.
National Grid first introduced a tiered discount for electric customers in 2025 after the DPU approved a five‑tier plan with discounts ranging from 32 % to 71 %. The latest structure extends that approach to gas customers, giving more families relief during the heating season.
Utility leaders praise the program
“We’re proud to have been the first utility in Massachusetts to propose and implement a tiered income‑based discount for electric customers and are now extending that approach to our gas customers,” said Bill Malee, National Grid’s chief customer officer. Malee emphasized that the program reflects the company’s commitment to helping households stay warm without sacrificing financial stability.
How to join the virtual webinar
The Nov. 30 webinar will feature National Grid advocates walking participants through resources for staying warm, saving energy and managing bills. Registration is available online, and a recording will be sent to anyone who registers but cannot attend the live session.
Additional resources
Residents can learn more about the assistance programs by visiting ngrid.com/hereforyou or calling National Grid customer service at 800‑233‑5325. The utility’s customer assistance events page lists the exact dates, times and locations for the six in‑person sessions, which are part of a broader statewide series announced on Oct. 28 for nine Massachusetts counties. Earlier stops in Worcester County included Leominster on Oct. 28 and Worcester on Nov. 2.
These sessions aim to empower families with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate winter energy costs, ensuring that more households can keep their homes warm while maintaining financial health.
Original reporting: This Week in Worcester — read the source article.
