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On March 16, 2026, the New Hampshire Public Utility Commission announced its decision to approve a rate increase for electricity providers in the state. The decision comes after months of public hearings and deliberation on the matter.The rate increase will affect all residential and commercial customers served by the state's regulated electric utilities, including Eversource Energy, Unitil Corporation, and Liberty Utilities. The approved rate hike is set to go into effect on April 1, 2026, and will result in an average increase of 3.5% for residential customers and 4.2% for commercial customers.According to the Public Utility Commission, the rate increase is necessary to cover rising operational costs, investments in infrastructure upgrades, and compliance with environmental regulations. The Commission noted that while the rate hike may be a burden for some customers, it is essential to ensure the continued reliability and stability of the state's electric grid.In response to the news, Eversource Energy, the state's largest electric utility provider, issued a statement expressing its appreciation for the Commission's decision. The company emphasized its commitment to delivering safe and reliable electricity services to its customers despite the challenges posed by the rising costs of doing business.However, consumer advocacy groups have voiced their concerns about the rate increase, arguing that it will disproportionately affect low-income and fixed-income households. They have called on the Public Utility Commission to explore alternative solutions to manage costs and ensure affordable electricity for all residents of New Hampshire.Moving forward, the Public Utility Commission has stated that it will continue to monitor the performance of electric utilities in the state and evaluate future rate adjustments as needed. The Commission has also encouraged customers to explore energy efficiency programs and renewable energy options to help mitigate the impact of the rate increase on their utility bills.Overall, the decision by the New Hampshire Public Utility Commission to approve a rate increase for electricity providers reflects the ongoing challenges faced by the state in balancing the needs of consumers, utilities, and the environment in the rapidly evolving energy landscape.