Western New Yorkers could soon see their electricity and gas rates rise considerably over the next three years. That’s according to a recently filed joint proposal from National Grid and its partners that outlines a delivery rate plan for the company's upstate customers.
The proposal, which requires approval from the New York Department of Public Service, would see an estimated monthly bill increase of $14.32 in the first year, $6.44 in the second year and $4.34 in year three for residential electricity customers using an average of 625 kilowatt hours per month.
For residential natural gas customers using an average of 78 therms per month, there would be an estimated monthly bill increase of $7.66 in the first year, $8.08 in the second year and $9.18 in year three.
Supporters of the proposal highlight the planned $1.4 billion in capital investments for the electricity delivery system and the $351 million in the natural gas system in the first year. The plan would also improve the system’s severe weather resiliency and is projected to add 480 jobs.
Phil DeCicco, National Grid's New York General Counsel, confirmed that the proposal will undergo a thorough review process and said in a statement that the company looks forward to "receiving additional feedback from our stakeholders during the upcoming public review process."
National Grid's electric delivery service is available across all of Orleans and Genesee County. A majority of Erie, Niagara, Chautauqua, and Cattaraugus counties offer the service as well.
National Grid does not currently provide natural gas delivery service to any county in Western New York.
