Senator Griffo Comments on PSC Freezing National Grid Rates to Help Customers

The Public Service Commission today announced it authorized National Grid to take immediate action to provide its customers with a $32 million temporary credit to offset an unprecedented increase in electric supply costs. The surges, expected in February, would result in bill spikes for upstate residential and small business customers. Read full release here. (This link opens a PDF file.)

Senator Joseph A. Griffo, R-Rome, issued the following statement in response:

"With the cold weather seemingly unyielding, I'm pleased to learn that National Grid is helping its customers avoid an estimated 27 percent increase in price by freezing its electric rates at January levels. Ratepayers, including small businesses, won't be forced to choose between being able to keep warm or pay their bill. As an Energy & Telecommunications committee member, I'm also encouraged that the Public Service Commission is looking after customers by investigating why National Grid's supply costs are increasing at a faster rate than other utilities. I encourage all consumers of electricity, whether customers of National Grid or another company, to ask their supplier about a no-fee budget plan that spreads out payments over a 12-month period. This can bring a bit of certainty to your budgeting and help avoid 'shocks' that occur during unusual, sustained periods of extreme weather."