Demands public hearings, corporate accountability, and answers for Upstate families
ITHACA. — Congressman Josh Riley (NY‑19) has formally intervened as a party in New York State Electric & Gas company’s rate cases (Nos. 25-E-0375, 25-G-0378) to fight back on behalf of the hundreds of thousands of Upstate New Yorkers he represents, as the utility seeks another rate hike. Riley is demanding transparency, accountability, and relief for families already burdened by rising utility costs.
“Enough is enough. Upstate New Yorkers shouldn’t have to choose between keeping the lights on and putting food on the table,” said Riley. “I’m intervening to demand full transparency, real public engagement, and proof that every dollar NYSEG collects actually helps our communities—not corporate profits overseas.”
Riley’s Priorities in the NYSEG Case:
• Full Transparency – A public accounting of NYSEG’s spending, profits, and proposed investments, so ratepayers know where their money is going.
• Community Hearings – Public forums across the 19th District so constituents can speak directly to decision-makers.
• Local Investment Over Corporate Windfalls – Demanding that NYSEG, Avangrid, and Iberdrola show that ratepayer dollars are going toward local infrastructure—not foreign shareholders.
• Direct Engagement – Encouraging residents to share utility bills and personal experiences so he can advocate effectively for working families.
Background:
NYSEG customers have seen sharp increases in their utility bills over the last two years. The most recent hike took effect on May 1, 2025, the final installment of a three-year rate plan approved in 2023. 60 days later, NYSEG filed a new request—branded “Powering NY”—seeking further delivery rate increases for electric and gas service. That proposal is now under review by the Public Service Commission.
The filing closely followed a state-ordered independent audit, released on May 19, which identified 128 required improvements to NYSEG’s operations and oversight. The audit detailed serious deficiencies, including a lack of local control, outdated asset tracking, and repeated customer service failures. It also cited apparent violations related to gas emergency reporting and reliability standards. NYSEG was ordered to submit a corrective action plan by June 18.
What It Means to Intervene:
By becoming an official party to the PSC case, Congressman Riley secures a legal role in the proceedings. Unlike public comment, party status allows him to access evidence, submit arguments, cross-examine witnesses, file motions, and directly challenge NYSEG’s claims. This ensures that the needs of Upstate residents, small businesses, and local communities are heard and factored into every stage of the case—not just those of corporate executives or Wall Street investors.
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