As frigid temperatures drive up energy consumption across New York, customers are facing higher bills this winter. New York State Electric & Gas (NYSEG) and Rochester Gas and Electric (RG&E) are reminding customers that the rising costs are largely due to increased supply rates set by energy generators, not the utility companies themselves.
While NYSEG and RG&E handle the delivery of gas and electricity, the companies stress that they do not control or profit from supply costs, which have surged due to market fluctuations. The combination of these rising supply rates and higher household usage during extreme cold spells is resulting in steeper bills for consumers.
“Having unpaid bills is stressful, but we want to make sure that customers are aware of the true driver of these high bills while also offering financial help for qualifying individuals,” said Christine Alexander, vice president of Customer Service at NYSEG and RG&E. “We urge customers to contact us about assistance programs and budget billing, sooner rather than later.”
To help mitigate the impact, NYSEG and RG&E offer an Energy Assistance Program, providing monthly bill credits for qualifying customers. Budget Billing is another option, spreading annual energy costs into 12 equal payments to prevent seasonal bill spikes.
Additionally, the federal Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) is available to help eligible households with heating expenses, emergency energy costs, and weatherization efforts. Customers facing financial hardship are encouraged to explore payment plans and deferred payment agreements to avoid service disconnections.
Customers in arrears receive multiple notifications before any potential service shutoff, including bills, reminder notices, phone calls, termination warnings, and in-person visits as mandated by the New York State Public Service Commission.
For more information or assistance, customers can visit:
- NYSEG: nyseg.com/HelpWithBill or call 888-315-1755
- RG&E: rge.com/HelpWithBill or call 877-266-3492
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