Boston Residents save with Community Choice Electricity Programme
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Boston residents using Boston Community Choice Electricity (BCCE) have saved an average of $200 per year on their electricity bills, totaling nearly $260 million in savings for ratepayers since the program’s launch in 2021. New electricity rates for BCCE, effective this month, are lower than current and upcoming Eversource rates, offering continued savings and access to renewable energy for residents and small businesses. These rates will remain in effect for the next two years.
The City encourages all residents and small businesses to verify their enrollment in BCCE by checking their electricity bill. Many unenrolled residents may be overpaying through third-party suppliers, who often lure customers with low introductory rates before substantially increasing them and imposing high termination fees, particularly impacting low-income residents and people of color.
To check your energy supplier or enroll in BCCE, schedule an appointment, email BCCE@boston.gov, or call 617-635-3850.
“The new electricity rates through Boston Community Choice Electricity give boston residents an opportunity to reduce their utility bills at a time when many families are struggling with our country’s affordability crisis,” said Mayor Michelle Wu.”This program proves that here in Boston, energy savings and bold solutions to tackle climate change go hand-in-hand.”
Boston Launches Energy Saving service & Warns of Rising Scams
The City of Boston has launched boston Energy Saver, a new service designed to help residents and small businesses reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills.This initiative comes at a time when numerous energy programs are available, but navigating them can be complex. Simultaneously, the city is alerting residents to a surge in energy-related scams targeting utility customers.
Boston Energy Saver: A Extensive Resource
boston Energy Saver aims to simplify the process of accessing energy-saving opportunities. The service provides personalized guidance to renters, homeowners, and small business owners on available discounts and building upgrade options. Residents can access this support through the following channels:
* Website: boston.gov/save
* Phone: 617-635-SAVE (7283) – for a one-on-one consultation.
The program focuses on a range of potential upgrades,including:
* Rebates and Low-Cost Financing: Financial assistance for energy efficiency improvements.
* building Weatherization: Sealing and insulating buildings to reduce energy loss.
* Heat Pumps: Efficient heating and cooling systems.
* Induction Stoves: energy-efficient cooking appliances.
* Energy Bill Check-Ups: Reviewing bills to ensure accurate charges and identify potential overbilling.
Protecting Residents from Energy Scams
The City of Boston is warning residents about an increase in refined scams perpetrated by individuals posing as utility representatives. These scams frequently enough involve requests for sensitive personal details or demands for immediate payment via gift cards, coupled with threats of utility shutoff.
Key warning signs of a scam include:
* Requests for Sensitive Information: Legitimate utility representatives will never ask for your Social Security number, bank account details, or other sensitive personal information.
* Demand for immediate Payment: utilities will not demand immediate payment, especially in the form of gift cards.
* Threats of Immediate Shutoff: While utilities may eventually disconnect service for non-payment, they will typically provide multiple notices and opportunities to resolve the issue.
Important Contacts:
* Boston center for Community engagement (BCCE): 617-635-3850 or bcce@boston.gov – for questions about potential scam attempts.
* Direct Energy (BCCE’s energy supplier): Contact information available through BCCE or Direct Energy’s official website.
* Local Utilities: Contact your specific utility provider directly through their official website or customer service number.
Boston Energy saver and the city’s scam alert demonstrate a commitment to both energy affordability and consumer protection. By providing accessible resources and raising awareness of fraudulent activity, Boston aims to empower residents to save money and stay safe.