Con Edison seeks double-digit increases in electricity and natural gas rates, leading to an average monthly bill increase of $154. Critics blame the rate hikes on green energy mandates and the burden on consumers. A group that advocates for ratepayers plans to push for a reduction in the proposed increase.
Con Edison , a major energy provider in New York City, is proposing substantial rate hikes that would significantly impact the monthly bills of its customers. The company has filed a request with the New York State Public Service Commission , seeking double-digit increases in both electricity and natural gas rates. According to Con Edison 's proposal, average electric bills would rise by 11.4%, while gas bills would skyrocket by 13.3%.
This translates to an additional $154 per month for the average customer, comparing current bills to those from five years ago. The proposed increases have drawn criticism from various stakeholders. Some experts have called on Governor Kathy Hochul and state lawmakers to reconsider the aggressive pursuit of green energy initiatives, arguing that the cost burden is being unfairly placed on consumers. A prominent commentator stated, “We’re not telling Mr. and Mrs. New York how much this transition to clean energy will cost them. It’s usury,” he said. The company cites mandates requiring it to upgrade the electrical grid to comply with state climate regulations as the primary driver for the rate hikes. These mandates are part of the state's ambitious Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030 and achieve 100% zero-carbon emission electricity by 2040.Con Edison customers are facing a significant financial strain due to these proposed rate hikes. Many residents express concerns about their ability to afford their energy bills, especially in the face of rising costs for other essential items like groceries. The company acknowledges the challenges faced by customers and points to its Energy Affordability/Low Income Bill Discount Program, which offers financial assistance to eligible households. However, critics argue that this program is insufficient to address the widespread impact of the proposed rate increases. The Public Utility Law Project, a consumer advocacy group, plans to push the PSC to reduce the size of the increase and protect the interests of ratepayers. The PSC will conduct a thorough review of Con Edison's request, considering input from officials, consumer groups, and other stakeholders before making a final decision on the rate hikes.
Con Edison Rate Hikes Energy Bills Green Energy Climate Change Public Service Commission Ratepayers Affordability
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Con Edison Seeks Rate Hikes to Fund Clean Energy and InfrastructureCon Edison has filed plans with the New York State Public Service Commission to increase gas and electricity rates by 11.4% and 13.3% respectively, starting January 1, 2026. The utility aims to raise $1.6 billion for electric delivery system upgrades and $400 million for gas infrastructure improvements to meet the increasing demand driven by electrification and new development.
Read more »
Con Edison Cleaners Strike Over Unfair Labor Practices44 contracted cleaners employed by Nelson Service Systems walked off the job at six Con Edison locations in Manhattan, accusing their employer of unfair labor practices. The strike, supported by the union 32BJ SEIU, stems from allegations of retaliation against workers for union activities, including a new restrictive dress code. Workers staged a rally outside Con Edison headquarters demanding fair treatment and solidarity.
Read more »
Con Edison's Bronx Zoo Project Protects Animals, PlanetThanks to an innovative waste heat recovery system that was upgraded with support from Con Edison, the Bronx Zoo is keeping its building warm during winter
Read more »
Lawsuits Accuse Southern California Edison of Sparking Deadly Eaton FireFour lawsuits were filed against Southern California Edison, alleging the utility company sparked the Eaton fire, one of the deadly blazes that ravaged Southern California last week. Lawyers representing homeowners in Altadena claim the fire originated under an Edison transmission tower and blame the utility for failing to de-energize its lines during the historic windstorm. While an official cause remains undetermined, evidence points to Edison's power lines as the potential ignition source. Edison denies responsibility and states the cause is under investigation.
Read more »
Shares of California utility Edison International drop more than 10% as wildfires rageThe decline comes as multiple large fires are burning around Los Angeles, with strong winds in the forecast that could make them difficult to contain.
Read more »
Wildfires in Los Angeles Spark Investor Concerns for Edison InternationalPowerful wildfires fueled by strong winds force evacuations in the Los Angeles area, impacting utility companies like Edison International. While there's no indication of SCE equipment starting the fires, investors are worried about potential financial impacts, similar to past events that led to PG&E's bankruptcy. A 2020 state law, AB 1054, aims to limit utility liability, offering some reassurance to analysts.
Read more »