The New York State Public Service Commission announced that utilities in the state are prepared to meet the demand for electricity and natural gas during the upcoming winter. The Commission stated that supplies are expected to be adequate for both residential and commercial customers.
“We are closely monitoring the utilities serving New York State to make sure they have adequate sources and supplies of electricity and natural gas to meet expected customer demands this winter,” said Commission Chair Rory M. Christian. “Further, the utilities have hedged approximately 70 percent of the estimated statewide full service electric residential energy needs and 51 percent of the estimated statewide gas customer needs to mitigate any market price swings this winter.”
According to the Commission, gas utilities have sufficient supply, delivery capacity, and storage inventory to meet customer demand under severe winter conditions. The Department of Public Service continues to review long-term gas system plans submitted by utilities, as required by Commission orders. Staff noted that reliability margins are tight in both sectors, indicating a need for continued investment to improve resilience.
Department staff project that full-service residential electric bills will be similar to last winter on average across the state. However, due to lower forecasted commodity prices and higher delivery rates from several gas utilities, the average gas bill is expected to increase compared to last year. Actual costs will vary depending on service territory, weather, and individual usage.
Income-eligible households can access discounts through Commission-approved Energy Affordability Programs (EAP), with eligibility expanding in 2026 to all residential customers below the median income.
Electric utilities have taken steps to reduce supply price volatility for full-service residential customers, while gas utilities use financial hedges and storage strategies to protect against market fluctuations. Despite these measures, customers may still experience the effects of global market volatility. The Department will continue outreach efforts to inform consumers about resources, cost mitigation strategies, energy conservation measures, bill management options, and financial assistance programs. Staff are also working with energy utilities to maintain clear communication with customers about winter preparedness and affordability initiatives.
The Department has implemented a proactive outreach program, offering information in multiple languages about billing options, financial assistance, winter preparedness, and steps to take during heating emergencies.
For the upcoming winter, a typical residential electric customer using 600 kWh per month is expected to pay about $60 per month for supply—a 1.4 percent increase from last year. The average residential natural gas customer using 719 therms may pay about $224 per month from November through March, which is an 8 percent rise from the previous year. These amounts will vary by region and usage, and a colder-than-normal winter could lead to higher bills.
Consumers are encouraged to take advantage of programs promoting energy efficiency and electrification for homes and businesses. Starting November 1, applications open for the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), which can provide over $900 in aid to eligible homeowners and renters based on income, household size, and heating method. For a family of four, the annual income limit for HEAP is $80,165. Enrollment in HEAP also qualifies customers for further discounts through EAP programs.
The Department will continue monitoring weather impacts, pipeline assets, and compliance with alternate fuel requirements, working with utilities and communities on efficiency measures and demand response solutions to meet increasing heating needs. Utilities are finalizing contracts for sufficient supply and storage to meet peak winter demand.
The long-term gas planning process is being modernized to include energy efficiency and emissions reduction programs, with opportunities for stakeholder input. Coordination with oil industry representatives and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) is ongoing to ensure adequate heating fuel supplies.
Electric utilities have increased pre-winter fuel reserves and improved maintenance practices at major generating facilities in Southeast New York. These facilities have firm contracts with suppliers and more proactive replenishment strategies.
Residents are advised to adopt energy-saving practices. NYSERDA provides tips and home energy efficiency programs, including free or reduced-cost upgrades for eligible customers through EmPower New York and Assisted Home Performance with ENERGY STAR programs. Homeowners can also access discounted products and services from their utility companies.
The New York Energy Advisor connects income-eligible residents with energy-saving offers and assistance paying utility bills. Community Solar projects are available for renters, homeowners, and businesses, offering bill credits for solar energy production.
Free home energy assessments are available statewide through NYSERDA’s Residential Energy Audit Program. Community Energy Advisors can help residents and businesses reduce energy use and costs.
Clean Heating and Cooling Campaigns offer assistance in upgrading heating or cooling systems, connecting participants with contractors, incentives, tax breaks, financing, and payment options.
The Home Energy Fair Practices Act provides protections for residential customers regarding utility services, including installment payment options, late fee caps, advance shutoff notice requirements, and protections for vulnerable customers.
Utility providers offer payment options such as deferred payments or budget billing to help customers manage seasonal cost fluctuations.
NYSERDA’s Put Energy to Work program offers resources for businesses seeking improved energy management.
For more information, the Commission’s review can be accessed on its website by searching Case Number 25-M-0183 or by contacting the Commission’s office in Albany.
