NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. — More than 3 million homes and businesses in New York City and its suburbs could soon face double-digit increases in electricity and natural gas bills, as Con Edison seeks approval to raise rates in order to fund power grid upgrades.
The proposed rate hikes would increase the average electric bill by 11.4% and the average natural gas bill by 13.3%, putting further strain on households already grappling with rising living costs.
A Typical Example of Rising Costs
For some New Yorkers, this increase would worsen an already difficult situation.
A December bill from a New Rochelle apartment revealed that a customer consumed $199 worth of electricity but was charged $354 for delivery fees, resulting in a total bill of $553. Residents say this trend of rising costs has become unsustainable.
Why Is Con Edison Requesting a Rate Hike?
Con Edison said the rate increases are necessary to:
- Upgrade infrastructure to handle increased energy demand and protect against weather-related outages.
- Transition to the “power grid of the future” by supporting more renewable energy, electric vehicle charging stations, and energy storage solutions.
- Expand assistance programs for low-income customers struggling with their bills.
Con Ed acknowledged the economic challenges facing customers, but emphasized that upgrades are critical to maintaining reliable service as demand rises.
Concerns from Advocates and Customers
Advocates, including AARP New York, are pushing back against the proposal, arguing that many customers already struggle to pay their bills.
Joe Stelling of AARP New York highlighted the alarming number of Con Ed customers facing overdue payments:
- Nearly 500,000 households are more than 60 days behind on utility bills, collectively owing nearly $1 billion.
- Stelling said many customers are forced to make tough choices between paying utility bills, buying food, and filling prescriptions.
“These numbers are just getting out of control, and the Public Service Commission needs to put their foot down, put a stop to this, and scrutinize every aspect of what’s being proposed,” Stelling said.
Frustration Among Customers
Residents of New Rochelle expressed frustration with the rising costs.
- Stanton Blackman said he often feels like he’s being “taken for a ride” by his Con Ed bill. “Years ago, it used to be affordable. Now, it’s really through the roof.”
- Mitch Fleiss said the timing of the hike is especially difficult: “A rate hike at this stage, with everything going up, up, up, it’s tough. It’s tough.”
What’s Next?
The Public Service Commission (PSC) will review Con Ed’s rate hike proposal and issue a ruling later in 2025. Until then, advocates and customers are urging the PSC to closely examine the utility’s request and consider the financial strain on households.
With nearly half a million households behind on their utility payments, Con Edison’s proposed rate hikes face significant pushback from residents and advocates. As the Public Service Commission deliberates, many are hoping for solutions that balance infrastructure upgrades with affordability.
