Two of New York’s largest utility companies, NYSEG and RG&E, are seeking significant increases in monthly delivery charges for natural gas and electricity, according to recent filings with the New York State Public Service Commission (PSC).
Under the proposals:
- RG&E customers would see a $33.01 monthly increase for electricity (a 26% hike) and an $18.87 increase for natural gas (22.2%).
- NYSEG customers would face a $33.12 electric hike (23.7%) and a $33.57 gas increase (33.5%).
The companies say the requested rate hikes are needed to fund critical infrastructure upgrades, including replacing aging utility poles, substations, and thousands of miles of wire. They also cite growing demand from new businesses and the need to meet state clean energy mandates.
The proposed rate changes are part of a one-year rate case, though both utilities have submitted five years of financial data to support a possible multi-year settlement.
Governor Kathy Hochul responded to the proposals by urging the PSC to closely examine the rate hike requests, emphasizing the impact on consumers.
“At a time when New Yorkers are struggling to meet everyday costs, New York State Electric and Gas (NYSEG) and the Rochester Gas and Electric Corporation (RG&E) must find a way to avoid these unacceptably high rate hikes,” Governor Hochul said. “I am calling on the Department of Public Service to scrutinize these proposals to ensure these companies have the resources to keep our energy grid going but are not making additional profit off the backs of ratepayers.”
The Public Service Commission will review the filings and consider public input before making a final decision.
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