REGION — After years of rising energy costs, Sullivan County residents may soon face another sharp increase. New York State Electric & Gas (NYSEG) is seeking state approval for a double-digit hike in delivery charges that could add approximately $33 per month to the average residential bill, according to filings with the New York State Department of Public Service. If approved, the new rates would take effect on May 1, 2026.

NYSEG is seeking a 23.7% increase in electric delivery rates, which would add about $33.12 per month for a typical household using 600 kilowatt-hours of electricity. 

A 33.5% increase in gas delivery charges would add another $33.57 per month for an average home that uses natural gas for heating.

Many in the region say they’re already struggling with high bills and unreliable service. 

“I tried to save on heat by freezing all winter,” said Melissa Hutchens, a NYSEG customer in Woodridge. “Now not using AC until it gets real bad and only limited. It’s horrible—takes a good chunk on monthly income.”

Karen Hoover, a Broome County resident, said the strain is especially severe for those on fixed incomes. “People on fixed incomes can’t afford to pay anything but the electricity bill,” she said. “When it comes down to making a choice whether it’s food or electric, the electric gets paid. Disabled and elderly people are among the most affected. We can’t afford another rate hike. The bills are astronomical now.”

The proposal is part of NYSEG and Rochester Gas & Electric (RG&E)’s broader “Powering New York” plan—a five-year strategy to rebuild aging infrastructure, expand grid capacity, and meet state clean energy mandates. Both companies serve much of Upstate New York and are owned by Avangrid, a U.S. subsidiary of Spain-based Iberdrola.

NYSEG says the increases are needed to modernize outdated poles and wires, improve storm response and tree trimming, and support broadband expansion. About 40% of the costs are tied to legacy obligations like storm recovery and deferred maintenance. The plan also includes hiring 1,100 workers statewide and allocating $413 million for low-income assistance.

Critics say the proposed hikes are too steep, especially for rural communities already facing high living costs. Governor Kathy Hochul has called the increases “unacceptably high” and urged regulators to scrutinize them closely. “These companies should not be making additional profit off the backs of ratepayers,” Hochul said.

Local leaders echoed that concern. “We cannot keep asking residents to shoulder the cost,” said Assemblymember Paula Elaine Kay. “Too many people are already struggling with high bills and shutoffs. The current situation is not sustainable.”

The Public Service Commission (PCC) will hold public hearings and negotiations before making a final decision in early 2026. A settlement could reduce or phase in the increases. Residents can submit comments online through the Department of Public Service website. A local hearing is expected later this year.

The PCC yesterday adopted a new energy affordability policy that will provide energy bill discounts for low-income customers. We will continue to update that story.