ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Gov. Kathy Hochul announced sweeping proposals to lower utility costs for New Yorkers during her 2026 State of the State address.
“Right now, the average New Yorker pays $1,700 a year just to keep the lights on and heat running,” Hochul said.
But she says the state can do more to ease that burden.
“Streamline utility assistance, helping homeowners make energy efficient upgrades and protecting New Yorkers who are blindsided by rate hikes,” said Hochul.
Some of the steps the governor wants to take include reforming the Public Service Law, removing hidden fees by directing the Department of Public Service to check bills for inappropriate utility spending and making sure customers are aware of programs that can help lower costs.
Officials with utility company RG&E responded to the governor’s plans, saying, in part, “Greater transparency helps new Yorkers understand what is really driving affordability concerns, including unregulated energy suppliers and state-mandated fees, which together can account for more than half of a customer’s bill.”
They also say the energy market supply rates are increasing, which is trickling down into consumers’ bills.
“We purchase that energy supply on the customers behalf. What we pay is what we pass onto the customers and that’s what they pay,” said Alexis Arnold, senior manager of communications for RG&E.
RG&E says they look forward to working with the governor and the Legislature to shine a light on what is contributing to high costs. The governor also highlighted plans to expand nuclear and clean energy projects in the state.