Con Edison proposal could cause rate hikes for Westchester residents if passed
Any rate hike would go into effect next January.
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An average electric bill would increase 11.4%, while an average gas bill would increase by 13.3% under a new rate hike.
County Legislator James Nolan, of District 15, says the impact on residents would be enormous.
"Taxpayers are already paying through the roof with rates," he said, "and to try and dip into their pockets even more, is out of control."
Nolan is particularly concerned about what such a hike would have on senior citizens and those on fixed income.
At the United Way of Westchester and Putnam they've seen an increase of nearly 60% in utility calls to its 211 hotline in the past five years.
The hotline connects residents to various resources.
"...Either by connecting to non-for-profit agencies or apply for HEAP, Home Energy Assistance Program, or connecting with the NYS Public Service Commission," said chief Information & Referral Officer, Lini Jacob, with the United Way of Westchester and Putnam.
Jacob recommended for anyone who needs financial help to call the center at 211.
Con Edison says with the recent extreme weather conditions, the proposed plan will hopefully prevent loss of power or service.
"This investment plan will allow us to make these critical investments that will allow us to fund resiliency and infrastructure projects that will keep the lights on," said Jaime McShane, director of media relations with Con Edison.
McShane says the proposal looks to offer energy affordability plans to those who are eligible.
The proposal will now be reviewed by the state Public Service Commission.
Any rate hike would go into effect next January.
