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The New York State Public Service Commission is holding public hearings in the Hudson Valley to discuss proposed utility rate hikes by Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation. The first hearing is scheduled for today (April 29) at 1 p.m. at Catskill Town Hall, followed by another at 5:30 p.m. at the Restorative Justice Center in Kingston. A third meeting will take place tomorrow (April 30) at 1 p.m. at Poughkeepsie Town Hall.
Central Hudson is proposing to increase its electric delivery revenues by approximately $47 million and gas delivery revenues by about $15 million. This would result in a 5.3% increase in electric bills and a 5.9% increase in gas bills for average residential customers. The company cites the need to replace aging infrastructure, rising labor costs, and cybersecurity measures as reasons for the hike. Central Hudson also aims to maintain energy affordability and ensure safe and reliable services, in line with the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act.
Residents are encouraged to attend the hearings to express their views. No appointment is needed to speak, and comments will be recorded as part of the official proceedings. For those unable to attend, alternative methods for submitting comments are available.