Power Struggle: Eversource Electrical Workers Protest Stalled Contract Talks in New Hampshire

MANCHESTER, N.H. — The air outside Eversource’s Manchester facility was charged with more than just electricity on a recent day, as hundreds of the utility giant’s electrical workers took to the picket lines. Members of IBEW Local 1837 and 1830, clad in their work gear, voiced a collective cry of frustration over what they describe as a prolonged and unproductive period of contract negotiations with Eversource.

The simmering dispute, which has seen negotiations drag on since March 2023, centers on fundamental issues critical to the workforce: job security, fair wages, competitive benefits, and the ability to retain experienced talent while attracting new blood to the vital field.

For these frontline workers, who are often the first responders during New Hampshire’s notorious storms and power outages, the stakes couldn't be higher.

Union representatives paint a grim picture, alleging that Eversource has not been bargaining in good faith. They argue that the company's proposals jeopardize the stability of their members' careers and undermine the dedication required to maintain reliable electrical service across the state.

The fear is palpable: without a strong contract, the experienced linemen, technicians, and other electrical professionals who keep the lights on might look elsewhere, potentially impacting the utility's capacity to respond to emergencies and daily maintenance needs.

One union member articulated the widespread concern, stating, "We're losing qualified people left and right.

Why would you want to stay in a job where you feel like you're not valued?" This sentiment reflects a deeper worry that without proper investment in its workforce, Eversource could face a critical shortage of skilled personnel, especially as older generations retire.

Eversource, for its part, maintains a different stance, stating that it remains committed to negotiating a fair contract that benefits both its employees and its customers.

A company spokesperson emphasized the desire for an agreement that acknowledges the hard work of its employees while also ensuring the long-term sustainability and reliability of its services. However, specifics of their proposals that have caused such an uproar remain largely under wraps, fueling further speculation and distrust among the union ranks.

The potential for a full-scale strike looms large, a scenario that union leaders suggest would have significant ramifications for service reliability, particularly during New Hampshire's unforgiving winter months or severe weather events.

The protesting workers are not just fighting for their own livelihoods; they argue they are advocating for the continued integrity and efficiency of the state's power infrastructure. As the standoff continues, all eyes remain on the negotiating table, hoping for a resolution that powers both the workforce and the state forward.