TOWN OF POUGHKEEPSIE – The state’s Public Service Commission held an in-person public comment session at Poughkeepsie Town Hall on Wednesday to get public input on Central Hudson’s proposed rate increase. The utility provider has come under substantial scrutiny in the past year over erroneous billing that triggered numerous investigations. Despite the flawed billing, Central Hudson is seeking permission to impose a double-digit rate increase for electric and gas delivery fees.
The increases, if approved, will go into effect on July 1, 2024.
The utility wants to raise $139.5 million for its electric delivery service or 16.4 percent in total revenue, and the money would be used to help replace aging infrastructure, finance its enhanced low-income and energy-efficient heat pump programs, increased labor costs and recovery from major storms and extreme weather.
The company wants to raise an additional $41.5 million or 29.2 percent and 19 percent in total income for its natural gas delivery service. The rate increase would be used to finance its low-income, energy efficiency programs, increased labor costs and additional investments to eliminate leak-prone pipes.
Poughkeepsie Town Supervisor Jay Baisley opposes the increases in light of the substantial billing errors by the utility. “I have concerns right now with the billing process they have – they can’t correct their billing – how can they be asking for a rate increase,” he asked. “Correct your problem before you ask for any more money.”
State Senator Rob Rolison (R, Poughkeepsie) opposes both the electric and gas increases and spoke at public hearings on Tuesday and Wednesday. “Our region faces an affordability crisis. Costs associated with housing, childcare, groceries, and energy have all increased,” he said. “My constituents shouldn’t have to choose between a doctor’s visit and feeding a family of four, between lighting and heating their home and filling up the gas…
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