MA DPU News

Governor Healey Declares April Dig Safe Month 2026

The Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities joined the 2026 Dig Safe Awareness National Campaign following Governor Healey's proclamation declaring April as Dig Safe Month. The campaign promotes calling 811 before any outdoor digging project to prevent damage to underground gas, electric, telephone, and cable utility lines. In 2025, DPU investigated 2,645 excavation-related incidents resulting in over $15.4 million in civil penalties, with damage rates reduced by 37.25% since 2018.

Healey-Driscoll Administration Energy and Environmental Agency Yearly Report

The Healey-Driscoll Administration has released its 2025 Annual Report for the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA). The report highlights progress in energy affordability, environmental protection, and climate resilience efforts across various state agencies.

Massachusetts Pipeline Safety Program Receives Perfect Federal Score

The Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) announced it received a perfect score from the federal Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) for its pipeline safety oversight program in 2024. This marks the third consecutive year the DPU has achieved this perfect score, highlighting its effective enforcement of federal pipeline safety standards.

DPU Investigates Utility Bill Charges for Transparency

The Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) has opened an investigation into all delivery charges on electric and gas utility bills. This action aims to address energy price volatility and improve bill transparency for Massachusetts ratepayers, aligning with the Governor's priorities.

DPU Municipal Aggregation Plans Save Customers $25 Million

The Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) announced that recently approved Municipal Aggregation Plans are projected to save enrolled electric customers approximately $25 million between December 2024 and July 2026. The DPU has streamlined its approval process, leading to faster implementation of these cost-saving plans.

DPU Settlement with Direct Energy for Telemarketing Violations

The Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) reached a settlement with Direct Energy Services, LLC, requiring the company to donate over $100,000 and cease telemarketing activities for one year. This action stems from an investigation into Direct Energy's noncompliance with DPU requirements for competitive suppliers regarding marketing scripts.