Are you tired of skyrocketing National Grid bills in New York? Well, get ready for even more sticker shock this winter! According to recent reports, the average Upstate household with gas and electric service can expect to pay over $360 for February's bill, and that's just the beginning. But here's where it gets controversial... The leading cause of these soaring bills is the rising wholesale prices for electricity and gas, which are soaring due to high demand during this frigid winter. Not only is natural gas the primary heating fuel in New York, but it is also the main driver of electricity prices in the spot market. So, what does this mean for you? National Grid will charge about 70 cents per therm for natural gas supply in February, which is a 45% increase from last year. Electric supply will cost households about 12 cents per kilowatt-hour, a 29% increase from February 2025. And let's not forget about the recent rate hike approved by the state, which will increase many household bills by $600 a year. But wait, there's more! The state-approved increases in National Grid's delivery rates, which took effect in September, are also contributing to the higher February bills. According to National Grid, household natural gas bills will be about $52 higher this February than a year ago. So, what can you do about it? Well, that's the million-dollar question. As a consumer, you can't control the wholesale prices or the state-approved rate hikes, but you can take steps to reduce your energy usage and lower your bills. And don't forget to voice your opinion! Do you think these soaring bills are fair? Or are you feeling the pinch too? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
