New York’s Energy Affordability Crisis

Energy affordability isn’t just a policy issue—it’s a daily struggle for many New Yorkers. These recommendations from AARP aim to bring fairness, transparency, and relief to households across the state. Whether it’s stopping unfair rate hikes or making assistance programs more accessible, there are real steps leaders can take right now.

Governor Kathy Hochul has made affordability a key priority—and rightly so. With energy bills climbing and many households struggling to keep up, AARP is urging swift action to protect consumers. Here’s what we’re recommending:

Immediate actions to help consumers now

• Reject Con Edison’s $2 billion rate hike 
  AARP is calling on the Governor and the Public Service Commission (PSC) to reject Con Edison’s proposed rate increase. Instead, they should demand a scaled-back plan that’s fair and affordable. If needed, temporary rates should be set while a new proposal is developed. 
  
• Sign the Independent Utility Advocate Bill 
  This bill (A.2468/S.6277) would create an independent office to represent everyday consumers in utility rate cases. Right now, big utility companies have the upper hand—this advocate would help level the playing field and ensure your voice is heard. 
  
• Make utility costs more transparent 
  Consumers deserve clear, itemized explanations of what they’re being charged for. AARP is pushing for plain-language reporting from utilities and the PSC, so ratepayers can understand their bills and hold companies accountable. 

Long-Term solutions in the 2026–27 State Budget

• Invest in the Energy Assistance Program (EAP) 
  The EAP helps low-income households avoid falling behind on energy bills. But over a million eligible New Yorkers aren’t enrolled. AARP recommends a $200 million investment to expand access and remove enrollment barriers. 
  
• Support community voices in rate cases 
  AARP wants to see $1 million allocated to help community organizations participate in PSC rate cases. This funding would ensure that consumer interests are better represented when decisions about energy costs are being made. 

Helpful resources:

• Report: Americans 50-Plus Are Concerned About Utility Costs Going Up  
  
• Report: New Report Asks & Answers the $19 Million Question: Why Are Consumers Losing NY’s Utility Price Game?  
  
• Report: NYS PC Case Number: 91-M-0744 https://documents.dps.ny.gov/public/MatterManagement/CaseMaster.aspx?MatterCaseNo=91-M-0744&CaseSearch=Search 

• Article: Current PSC rate-making process deepens financial hardship and affordability crisis for older New Yorkers 
  
• Article: AARP NY Opposes NYSEG and RG&E’s $800 Million Rate Hike Proposal 
  
• Article: Elected Officials Join AARP NY in Calling on State Regulators to Reject Con Ed’s $2 Billion Energy Rate Increase 
  
• Article: AARP NY Urges Governor to Oppose National Grid’s Double-Digit Electricity and Gas Rate Hike 
• AARP's Latest Reports 
• Learn About AARP's Public Policies 

How You Can Make Your Voice Heard
Click here to sign the pledge:  Reject the Con Edison Rate Hike! AARP


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