December 12, 2024 by Hingham Municipal Lighting Plant
The Hingham Municipal Lighting Plant (HMLP) invites residents to a Public Information Session on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at 7:30 PM to discuss the upcoming electric rate increase, effective January 2025. The meeting will be held in a hybrid format, allowing attendees to join virtually via Zoom (link available in the posted agenda) or in person at Town Hall’s Central Meeting Room on the second floor at 210 Central Street, Hingham, MA 02043. Harbor Media will also broadcast the meeting.
January’s rate increase is the third and final phase of a plan approved in 2023. In 2023, HMLP conducted a comprehensive rate study with Utility Financial Services (UFS). During the study, UFS concluded that rates needed to increase by approximately 18% to cover operating costs, power costs, and capital obligations. After extensive review and public discussion, the Municipal Light Board approved the increase, and the Board decided to phase in the increase at approximately 6% each year. This January marks the final stage of the phased implementation. The actual percentage of increase varies depending on rate classes.
The increase addresses funding needs for Hingham’s Electrical Infrastructure & Reliability Project (HEIRP), a critical initiative to ensure the resilience and modernization of the town’s electric system. These investments, authorized at Town Meeting, are essential for maintaining reliable service and upgrading critical infrastructure. For more information on HEIRP, visit heirp.com.
This session will allow residents to ask questions and learn more about HMLP’s rates and ongoing projects. Your participation is vital to understanding and shaping the future of Hingham’s energy landscape.
Public Information Session
Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM
Location: Hybrid (Virtual or In-Person)
In Person: Town Hall Second Floor Central Meeting Room, 210 Central St. Hingham, MA
Virtual: Join via Zoom (link available in the posted agenda)
Assistance and Resources for Customers
HMLP understands the impact rate adjustments may have on its customers and is committed to supporting those who struggle to pay their bills. Resources include:
Income-Adjusted Rate: Now offering a 15% discount on certain bill items for qualifying customers. For details, visit www.hmlp.com/assistance.
No-Cost Energy Assessments: Helping customers identify ways to save energy and reduce costs. To schedule, visit www.hmlp.com/assessment.
For more information, please contact HMLP at 781-749-0134 or visit www.hmlp.com