BINGHAMTON, N.Y., SULLIVAN COUNTY — As winter energy bills climb, New York State Electric & Gas (NYSEG) and Rochester Gas and Electric (RG&E) are addressing customer concerns about high costs and urging residents to explore available financial assistance programs.

The companies attribute the increase to higher supply rates set by energy-generating companies and increased household energy use due to colder temperatures.

“We realize this winter has brought frigid temperatures,”  the NYSEG and RG&E Director of Communications Shelby Cohen told the Democrat. “As it gets colder, their heating goes on more often.”

NYSEG and RG&E emphasize that while they are responsible for delivering gas and electricity, they do not control supply prices, which are determined by energy-generating companies.

The supply cost is passed directly to customers without markup, while delivery charges have remained unchanged.

“The supply charge is where people are getting hit,” Cohen states.

Many households have experienced higher-than-usual energy consumption as heating systems work harder to maintain indoor temperatures, contributing to elevated bills.

“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,” Christine Alexander, Vice President of Customer Service at NYSEG and RG&E, said in a statement. “We urge customers to contact us about assistance programs and budget billing, sooner rather than later.”

Available assistance 

programs

To help customers manage energy costs, NYSEG and RG&E offer several support programs:

Energy Assistance Program (EAP): Provides eligible customers with a monthly bill credit.

Budget Billing: Distributes costs evenly over 12 months to reduce seasonal fluctuations.

Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP): A federal grant program offering financial aid for energy costs, emergency benefits, and weatherization. Eligible households can apply at http://otda.ny.gov/programs/heap/.

Customers needing assistance can contact:

- NYSEG: nyseg.com/HelpWithBill or call 888-315-1755

- RG&E: rge.com/HelpWithBill or call 877-266-3492

Preventing  disconnection

Customers with overdue balances receive multiple notifications before service disconnection, including bill reminders, phone calls, and a termination notice with an extended payment period. If necessary, an in-person visit will be conducted prior to disconnection, as required by the New York State Public Service Commission.

To avoid interruptions, NYSEG and RG&E offer deferred payment agreements and flexible payment plans. Customers are encouraged to contact Customer Service or visit the Companies’ websites for more information.

Cohen also points to resources that customers can utilize at: https://www.nyseg.com/winter-energy-tips.

NYSEG and RG&E said they remain committed to assisting customers through the winter and encourage anyone struggling with their bills to seek support as soon as possible.