Boston (AP)  -- Governor Patrick and the leaders of the Massachusetts House and Senate are hoping to help citizens cope with increased energy costs this winter.

They're creating a task force with five Cabinet secretaries and four members of the Legislature that will offer public recommendations within 60 days.

Senate President Therese Murray says the panel is needed now because of the lead time required in order to implement any changes. House Speaker Salvatore DiMasi agreed.

The price of home heating oil in New England has jumped 87 percent since the winter of 2005-2006. It now costs $4.71 a gallon.

It will cost more than $3,750 to heat the average Massachusetts household with oil next winter. That's up from $1,800 two winters ago.