The New York State Public Service Commission has stated that utilities across the state are prepared to meet the demand for electricity and natural gas during the upcoming winter. According to the Commission, both residential and commercial customers can expect adequate supplies to be available.
“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.”
Gas utilities in New York have reported sufficient supply, delivery capacity, and storage inventory to meet customer needs even under severe winter conditions. Utilities are also required to file long-term gas system plans, which are reviewed separately from the annual winter preparedness assessment. However, staff from the Department of Public Service have indicated that reliability margins remain tight in both sectors, highlighting the need for continued investment to improve resilience.
Electricity bills for full-service residential customers are expected to remain similar to last winter on a statewide average. Gas bills, however, are projected to be higher due to increased delivery rates and other factors. Actual costs will vary depending on the utility, weather, and individual usage.
Discounts through Commission-approved Energy Affordability Programs are available for income-eligible households. Starting in 2026, eligibility for these programs will be extended to all residential utility customers below the median income.
Utilities continue to use financial strategies such as hedging and storage to reduce the impact of market price fluctuations, but customers may still be affected by global price volatility. The Department of Public Service is conducting outreach to provide consumers with information on managing energy costs, reducing consumption, and accessing financial assistance. The department is also working with utilities to maintain clear communication with customers regarding winter preparedness and affordability measures.
The Department has implemented a proactive outreach program that includes multilingual publications about billing options, assistance programs, and winter preparedness. For a typical residential electric customer using 600 kWh per month, the supply cost is expected to be about $60 per month this winter—an increase of 1.4 percent from last year. For gas customers using 719 therms over the winter season, the estimated monthly bill is $224, which is 8 percent higher than the previous year. Regional differences and weather can significantly affect these amounts.
Applications for the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) will open on November 1. HEAP can provide over $900 in assistance to eligible homeowners and renters based on income and household size. For example, a family of four must have an annual income below $80,165 to qualify. Enrollment in HEAP automatically qualifies customers for additional utility bill discounts through the Energy Affordability Program.
Department staff will continue to monitor weather impacts, utility assets, and compliance with fuel requirements. Utilities are finalizing contracts to ensure sufficient supply and capacity during peak winter demand. The Commission is also modernizing gas planning processes to include energy efficiency and demand response programs aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Major electric-generating facilities in Southeast New York have increased fuel reserves and secured supply contracts ahead of winter. Maintenance and preparation efforts have also been enhanced.
Residents are encouraged to adopt energy efficiency measures and explore electrification options for their homes and businesses. NYSERDA offers various programs and tips for saving energy, including free home energy audits and access to discounted products through local utilities. The New York Energy Advisor helps income-eligible residents find programs that lower energy expenses.
Community Solar projects are available for renters and property owners who wish to save on electric bills by subscribing to clean energy projects. Businesses and building owners can access resources through Community Energy Advisors and NYSERDA’s Put Energy to Work initiative.
The Home Energy Fair Practices Act provides protections for residential utility customers, including installment payment options, capped late fees, advance shutoff notice requirements, and safeguards for those with fixed incomes or medical needs.
Customers are advised to inquire about bill payment plans such as deferred or budget billing with their utility providers. Additional resources on commercial building energy management are available through NYSERDA.
The Commission’s review of winter preparedness can be accessed online by searching Case Number 25-M-0183 at www.dps.ny.gov or by contacting the Commission’s Files Office in Albany.
