New York’s recently passed state budget addresses the high cost of utilities in a few different ways: It enacts new reporting requirements for utilities seeking rate hikes. It requires that companies seeking rate hikes to submit a lower-cost Plan B. And if the Public Service Commission approves a rate request higher than 3%, the commission would have the power to install an “independent affordability monitor” at that utility. 

Additionally, eligible households will be entitled to a rebate check of between $150 and $200, expected to be distributed this fall. 

“We’ve seen a wide range of ways to try to cut costs,” said Laurie Wheelock, executive director and general counsel at the Public Utility Law Project (PULP). “Everything to curtailing what ratepayers should be responsible for, to thinking creatively when those utility companies file new rate cases, which will happen in 2027.”

There is other utility news that consumers should find troubling. 

Gov. Kathy Hochul has ordered an investigation by the Public Service Commission into several New York utilities after utility representatives from PSEG, National Grid and ConEd were heard disparaging ratepayers who have trouble paying their bills at a collections conference in March. More here. 

PULP and AARP brought the issue to the attention of the Hochul administration which, according to Wheelock, responded quickly. 

“Making jokes about shutting off power to vulnerable customers is completely unacceptable,” Hochul said in a statement. “I expect PSEG-LI to take swift and decisive action against the official who made these comments. Utilities should always put their customers first. Shutoffs over debt collection should be viewed as a last resort, not something to joke, threaten, or brag about. I have directed the Department of Public Service to launch a statewide Investigation to determine whether these offensive comments reflect the views of one person or point to a more widespread problem. PSEG-LI must take every action necessary to rebuild trust with its customers, many of whom are struggling with high energy bills that are no laughing matter.”

Courier News Service obtained a copy of the remarks, which are now posted to YouTube.

“For PULP, it was shocking to hear some of the things that were said,” Wheelock noted.

PULP assists people who struggle paying their utility bills. There are currently over 1 million utility accounts in arrears in New York State for a total of $1.9 billion.

“Our hope is to look deeply into the collections practices with energy affordability being what it is, this needs to be taken seriously,” said Wheelock.

PULP is urging rate payers who have had issues with utilities to share those complaints with the Public Service Commission here.

Any customers who’ve tried to resolve their concerns with their utility directly, but have not received a satisfactory resolution, have the right to file an inquiry or complaint against their utility with the Department of Public Service here.

Also for the public who may want to file comments on their experience with their utility company and its collection practices they can visit here.