Con Edison seeks approval for substantial increases in gas and electric bills, citing investments in clean energy and infrastructure upgrades. The proposal faces opposition from renewable energy advocates who call for alternative solutions.
Con Ed ison, the major utility company serving New York City and Westchester County, is seeking approval from state regulators to increase both gas and electric bills for its customers. The proposed increase, if approved, would see electric bills rise by an average of 11.4% and gas bills by 13.3%, effective January 1, 2026.
Con Ed claims these hikes are necessary to finance investments in clean energy initiatives and infrastructure upgrades, particularly in light of increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather events. The company asserts that the $21 billion investment plan over the next three years would bolster economic growth and development in both New York City and Westchester County. Matthew Ketschke, president of Con Edison, emphasized the company's commitment to providing safe, reliable, and affordable energy to its 9 million customers. He stated that the proposed investments are crucial for maintaining and enhancing grid reliability, resilience, and clean energy infrastructure. However, the proposal has faced opposition from Sane Energy Project, a renewable energy advocacy group. Kim Fraczek, the group's director, argues that New York State should explore alternative energy solutions to alleviate the financial burden on residents. Fraczek believes the state should transition away from the traditional corporate utility model towards a more localized approach, emphasizing locally produced and publicly owned energy. While Fraczek acknowledges some positive aspects of Con Ed's plan, such as the proposed clean energy hub in Brooklyn, she calls for more transformative change. Fraczek expresses concern about the continued investment in gas infrastructure, stating that it will ultimately lead to higher costs and harm public health and safety.The New York State Public Service Commission has the final say on whether to approve, pause, reduce, or negotiate the proposed rate increase. The commission has committed to an 11-month review process, meticulously examining the proposal and seeking ways to mitigate potential cost increases before reaching a decision. The Governor of New York has also publicly expressed opposition to any measures that would increase the cost of living for New Yorkers, directing the Department of Public Service to conduct a thorough review of Con Edison's request
CON ED RATE HIKE ENERGY PRICES NEW YORK UTILITIES CLEAN ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE RENEWABLE ENERGY PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION
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