National Grid has filed a new joint proposal for a three-year electric and natural gas rate plan affecting Upstate New York customers. The plan was developed with support from state agencies, labor unions, clean energy groups, and major business stakeholders.
The proposal outlines investments to modernize infrastructure, improve storm response, expand affordability programs, and support New York’s clean energy goals. It replaces a previous May 2024 filing and will undergo regulatory review by the New York Public Service Commission.
Key impacts on customer bills
If approved, residential electricity bills for customers using 625 kWh per month would rise:
- $14.32/month in year one
- $6.44/month in year two
- $4.34/month in year three
Natural gas customers using 78 therms per month would see increases of:
- $7.66/month in year one
- $8.08/month in year two
- $9.18/month in year three
Major upgrades and programs in the proposal
- $1.4 billion in electric system improvements and $351 million in natural gas infrastructure upgrades in year one.
- $290 million in bill discounts for low-income households, including $72 million in year one.
- A $3 million shareholder-funded weatherization program for disadvantaged communities.
- New protections for cold-weather energy shutoffs and expanded community outreach.
- More than 480 new jobs to support electric and gas operations, storm response, and customer service.
- Infrastructure funding to support economic development and clean energy interconnections.
- Continued grid modernization and resiliency improvements to handle severe weather.
- A dedicated liaison for Indigenous communities within the service area.
Stakeholder support
The plan was negotiated with input from the Department of Public Service, IBEW Local 97, Independent Power Producers of New York, New York Solar Energy Industries Association, and several large customers including Walmart and the U.S. Department of Defense.
Phil DeCicco, National Grid’s New York General Counsel, emphasized the balance between affordability and reliability: “This proposal ensures needed investments in the grid while minimizing rate impacts during a time when customers are concerned about energy costs.”
What’s next
The proposal is now subject to a formal public review process. Customers, advocates, and businesses can provide input before the New York Public Service Commission makes a final decision.
National Grid’s Upstate New York electric business serves 1.7 million customers across more than 680 communities. Its gas network delivers service to over 640,000 customers in central, northern, and eastern New York.
Full proposal documents are available at ngrid.com/uny-ratefiling.
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