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Central Hudson Gas and Electric Corporation customers in Kingston will see higher utility bills starting this month. The New York State Public Service Commission approved the rate increases last month, which will remain in effect until June 30, 2028. These hikes include a flat-rate basic service charge that will rise by more than one dollar each year over the three-year rate agreement.
According to Daily Freeman, the basic service charge for electricity will be $22.50 in the first year, $24 in the second, and $26 in the third. For gas, the charge will be $27.25 in the first year, $28.75 in the second, and $30.75 in the third. These charges will apply even if no gas or electricity is used, as they cover maintenance and administrative costs.
The rate hikes will result in an average residential electric customer paying $6.04 more per month in the first year, $6.25 more in the second, and $6.01 more in the third. Gas customers will see increases of $7.89, $11.27, and $12.21 respectively over the same period. By the third year, the average customer could pay nearly $50 more per month for both gas and electricity combined, as reported by Hudson Valley One.
Central Hudson's spokesperson, Joseph Jenkins, emphasized that supply charges for electricity and gas are not controlled by the company but are passed through from third-party suppliers without markup. The rate plan includes provisions for system upgrades and cybersecurity enhancements to ensure reliable service, as detailed on Central Hudson's website. The plan also aims to expand enrollment in the Energy Affordability Program to support low-income households.