The state of Massachusetts has announced its intention to impose a significant fine of $1.5 million on the energy company Eversource for safety violations connected to a tragic gas explosion that occurred in a Maynard home in 2021.
In a “notice of probable violation,” the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) cited Eversource for multiple failures. These included the company’s inability to accurately classify, track, and respond to gas leaks on a street in Maynard over several years leading up to the explosion. The catastrophic incident resulted from a gas line leak outside the home and claimed the life of an individual who flicked on a light switch while investigating a mysterious odor in the basement.
The state’s investigation also revealed that Eversource had neglected the monitoring and remediation of corrosion in its pipelines. Furthermore, the company was found to have employed workers who were not adequately qualified, including at least six contractors who were dispatched to the incident site.
Eversource responded to the state’s findings with a statement expressing strong disagreement. The company emphasized the 2021 fire in Maynard as an isolated and tragic event, offering condolences to the affected families and friends. Eversource pledged to engage in the appropriate regulatory processes to present its perspective on the DPU’s findings before reaching a final resolution.
Eversource, as the largest energy delivery company in New England, serves approximately four million customers across Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire. In Massachusetts alone, Eversource supplies gas to 117 communities.
Nathan Phillips, a professor at Boston University specializing in gas infrastructure, lauded the state’s action, describing it as “refreshing” to see a powerful utility being held accountable through a credible and comprehensive investigation. However, Phillips raised concerns about the proposed fine, stating that it appeared disproportionately low given the number and severity of the violations. He stressed that misclassified and overlooked leaks often lead to hazardous incidents.
Cathy Kristofferson, an advocate with the Pipe Line Awareness Network for the Northeast, expressed reservations about Eversource’s quality of work in light of the citation. This further fueled her opposition to Eversource’s planned construction of a gas pipeline in Springfield.
Eversource has a 30-day window to respond to the findings and address the allegations raised by the Massachusetts DPU. The outcome of this case will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping the company’s future practices and its accountability within the state.
