Massachusetts DPU upholds $8 million National Grid fine
MASSACHUSETTS - The state Department of Public Utilities has upheld an $8 million fine against National Grid for poor customer service in 2006.
The Massachusetts Electric Co. — which now operates under the Grid umbrella — argued that four difficult storms lowered its rating in a state review of its 2006 performance. The company asked that the storms be excluded from the review.
DPU said in the ruling it would not exempt the storms because Mass. Electric had fallen short in the rest of its performance review.
National Grid spokeswoman Debbie Drew said the company was disappointed, but is looking for the best way to credit the $8 million to its customers.
The utility must also rebate $30,000 to customers of Nantucket Electric, also a National Grid company.
Related News
Hydro-Quebec shocks cottage owner with $5,300 in retroactive charges
MONTREAL - A relaxing lakefront cottage has become a powerful source of stress for an Ottawa woman who Hydro-Quebec is charging $5,300 to cover what it says are years of undercharging for electricity usage.
The utility said an old analogue power meter is to blame for years of inaccurate electricity bills for the summer getaway near Gatineau, Que.
Owner Jan Hodgins does not think she should be held responsible for the mistake, nor does she understand how her usage could have surged over the years.
“I’m very hydro conscious, because I was raised that way. When you left a room, you always turned…
