The cost to heat a Connecticut home is expected to rise this winter. 

By Josh Lanier From Daily Voice

Eversource customers in Connecticut are expected to see a significant spike in the cost to heat their homes this winter as the company announced a proposed rise in the price of electricity.

The price of electricity is expected to increase to 12.64 cents per kilowatt-hour on Jan. 1, 2026, which is a 13 percent increase from last winter, according to Eversource. The increase requires approval from the state's Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA).

Standard Service supply rates change twice a year, on Jan. 1 and July 1. For comparison, the summer rate was 9.75 cents per kilowatt-hour, according to Eversource. The supply rate is only one part of a customer’s bill. The cost of delivery, transmission, and public benefit charges would remain unchanged under the proposal.

Eversource said market conditions are behind the increase. Because Connecticut does not generate its own power, electric companies like Eversource must buy electricity on the wholesale market, a process regulated and overseen by PURA.

Connecticut already has some of the highest energy bills in the country.

A LendingTree survey of government data published in December 2024 found that the average monthly utility cost from August 2023 through August 2024 was $254.47 — about 37 percent higher than the national average.

The survey also found that 36 percent of Connecticut residents have skipped buying household essentials such as food or medication to cover a utility bill.

However, there are options to help struggling families.

The Connecticut Energy Assistance Program can provide up to $645 toward heating bills. Residents can find more information at CT.gov/heatinghelp. The Matching Payment Program can cut overdue balances when families make regular payments.

Income-eligible customers may qualify for discounts of up to 50 percent and winter shut-off protections. Eversource also offers payment plans for those who qualify.

Click here for more information on Eversource's assistance programs.  Residents can also search for alternative energy suppliers at EnergizeCT.com.