With the first heat wave of the year in the forecast—bringing temperatures well into the 90s and high humidity later this weekend and into next week—air conditioners and fans will be working overtime in many homes and businesses.

During the summer months, Eversource customers in New Hampshire typically use about 20% more electricity to stay cool. That number can climb even higher during multiple heat waves, like the state experienced last year. While this surge in electricity use can strain the power system, Eversource is prepared to meet the increased demand. Crews are ready to respond to any outages or issues, and system operators are constantly monitoring the grid, ready to reroute power and shift resources as needed.

“We’re always preparing for whatever the weather brings so our customers have reliable electric service year-round—especially during the hot and humid days of summer,” said Bob Coates, Eversource President of New Hampshire Electric Operations. “To ensure the grid can handle the increased load, we regularly conduct ground and aerial inspections of the electric distribution system to detect and resolve potential issues before they become problems.

“This is also the time of year when energy bills tend to spike. Last summer, we saw that firsthand with record-breaking heat and several heat waves. We’ve been reminding our customers of simple ways to manage their energy use—and we want to make sure they know about every available option to help keep their bills from rising along with the temperatures.”

Eversource reminds customers that increased energy use results in higher energy bills. Even if the thermostat is set to the same temperature all summer, it will consume more electricity when it’s 95°F outside than when it’s 80°F, because the system works harder to maintain that set temperature.

Tips to Manage Energy Use This Summer:

• Set air conditioners as warm as comfort allows. Each degree higher on the thermostat can reduce electricity use by 1–3%.

• Ensure proper airflow. Keep air vents and heat pump vents clear of obstructions like furniture, curtains, and rugs.

• Use major appliances during cooler times. Run heat-generating appliances—like dishwashers and dryers—early in the morning or late at night, when both the temperature and electric demand are lower.

• Keep blinds closed. Block direct sunlight with blinds, shades, or curtains to reduce indoor temperatures by as much as 20 degrees.

• Use ceiling fans efficiently. Set fans to rotate counterclockwise at a higher speed to create a cooling breeze. Remember, fans cool people, not rooms—turn them off when you leave.

• Cook outdoors. Grilling outside keeps heat from stoves and ovens out of your home.

To explore a variety of energy-saving programs, visit Eversource.com.

Help Is Available for Customers Who Need It:

Eversource offers several programs and payment plans to help customers manage their energy bills:

• New Start Program: For income-eligible customers with past-due balances. Make on-time monthly payments, and Eversource will forgive a portion of the balance—potentially eliminating it in as little as 12 months.

• Electric Assistance Program: Offers a monthly Discount Rate for customers who meet certain income guidelines.

• Flexible Payment Plans: Available to all customers, regardless of income, to pay past-due balances over time.

• Budget Billing: Helps avoid seasonal bill spikes by spreading costs evenly over the year, based on average usage.

• Energy Efficiency Programs: Includes incentives and solutions to help reduce energy use and save money.

Regardless of income level, customers are encouraged to explore their options. Call 800-662-7764 or visit Eversource.com for more information about available programs to reduce energy use, manage costs, and access financial assistance.