Berkshire Gas Launches New Discount Rate to Provide Additional Payment Assistance
New six-tier structure provides eligible customers with discounts of up to 87% for heating customers and up to 90% for non-heating customers
PITTSFIELD, Mass. – November 5, 2026 — Berkshire Gas today announced a new Discount Rate for qualifying customers that takes effect November 1, 2026. The previous Low-Income Discount Rate (LIDR) of 25% for eligible customers is being replaced by the new Discount Rate with six tiers designed to better reflect customers’ household income, household size and energy needs.
“Helping customers manage their energy costs is an important part of the service we provide,” said Charlotte Ancel, President and COO of Berkshire Gas. “This new structure provides different levels of assistance based on household circumstances. We encourage customers who may qualify, or anyone who is having difficulty paying an energy bill, to connect with us so we can help identify available options.”
Under the new structure, eligible customers who use natural gas for heating may receive discounts between 15% and 87%. Eligible customers who do not use natural gas for heating may receive discounts between 24% and 90%. A customer’s tier is based on total household income and the number of people in the household. Discount percentages are based on a total household energy burden calculation that also takes into account the household’s primary heating source. This approach results in different discount percentages for customers who use natural gas for heating and those who do not.
Customers transitioning to the new Discount Rate will receive a letter when the program launches informing them of their tier and how to apply for a different tier.
The Discount Rate will remain in place for each eligible customer for 18 months. Before that period expires, customers will receive information about recertifying their eligibility. Discount percentages may change based on guidance from the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities. Customers can review the full income guidelines and learn more about the program at Berkshire Gas Discount Rate - BGC.
Customers who do not qualify for the Discount Rate but need help with their energy bills may have other assistance programs and payment options available. More information is available through Berkshire Gas’ customer assistance resources at Help With Bill - BGC.
Media Contact:
Angela Baccaro