(WRGB) — Gov. Hochul is criticizing President Donald Trump and congressional Republicans as gas prices climb sharply following the outbreak of war in Iran.
According to data cited by the governor’s office from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), the average price of gasoline in New York has increased 62 cents per gallon, about 21%, since the conflict began Feb. 28.
Diesel prices have risen even more sharply, climbing $1.13 per gallon, or 28%, statewide and surpassing $5 per gallon on March 13, according to the data.
State officials also reported that gas prices increased 8 cents per gallon over the weekend, while diesel jumped 11 cents per gallon from Friday to Monday.
Gov. Hochul said federal policies and international conflict have contributed to rising fuel costs, saying;
President Trump promised to lower energy prices, but instead, he and his administration have driven up costs for New Yorkers with illegal tariffs, and now they’re driving up gas prices with the War in Iran. As Republicans in Congress ignore these gas price hikes, I’ll keep working to tackle rising energy costs by protecting consumers, holding utility companies accountable and building more of the energy sources our state needs.
The governor added that she will continue working to lower energy costs in New York through consumer protections and expanded energy supply.
Hochul highlighted her Ratepayer Protection Plan, first introduced during her 2026 State of the State address, which aims to reduce energy costs for New Yorkers.
The proposal includes several measures, including:
Eliminating hidden fees on utility bills tied to corporate advertising, fines and certain legal expensesRequiring utilities to tie executive compensation to affordability for customersRequiring companies proposing new rates to present budget-constrained options that keep costs below inflationExpanding access to energy affordability programs that help residents lower monthly billsRequiring data centers to cover their own energy costs or supply their own power
State officials say the plan is designed to hold utility companies accountable while helping residents reduce monthly energy bills.
Hochul also called on lawmakers to work with her on changes to the state’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, which was enacted in 2019.
According to a NYSERDA analysis cited by the governor’s office, implementing the law under its current timeline could increase annual household energy bills by about $4,000 for upstate households using oil or natural gas and $2,300 for households using natural gas in New York City by 2031.
The analysis also suggests gas prices could increase by an additional $2.39 per gallon under the law’s current structure.
Hochul said she remains committed to the state’s clean energy goals but argues adjustments are necessary due to economic changes, inflation and supply chain challenges since the law was passed.
Local officials say rising energy costs are already affecting communities across the state.
North Tonawanda Mayor Austin Tylec said,
Rising energy and fuel costs are putting real pressure on both residents and businesses across our communities. Local governments see firsthand how these increases affect household budgets and the ability of small businesses to operate and grow. Finding ways to keep energy reliable while reducing costs for New Yorkers must remain a priority.
Officials say the issue will likely remain a major topic as lawmakers negotiate the state budget and debate energy policy in the months ahead.
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