Photo: Kameleon007 / E+ / Getty Images
Congressman Josh Riley, representing New York's 19th District, has filed an appeal with the state Public Service Commission to reverse recent rate hikes by Central Hudson Gas and Electric Corporation. Riley claims the approval process for these increases was "rigged" and argues that the hikes place undue strain on families in the Hudson Valley, who are already struggling with financial pressures. According to Daily Freeman, Riley criticized the Public Service Commission for approving the hikes, stating that the process favored Central Hudson's foreign parent company, Fortis Inc., over local consumers.
The rate increases, approved in August, will affect both electric and gas delivery rates over the next three years. For instance, the average residential electric consumer will see an increase of $6.04 per month in the first year, with further increases in subsequent years. Similarly, gas customers will experience a rise of $7.89 in the first year. These changes will be in effect until June 30, 2028.
Central Hudson, however, defends the rate hikes, arguing that they are necessary to maintain financial stability and have been minimized to reduce impact on customers. Joe Jenkins, Central Hudson's director of media relations, stated that the company has worked to keep costs down and that the rate plan was thoroughly reviewed before approval.
Riley's appeal is part of a broader effort to challenge utility rate increases in the region. He has also intervened in cases involving New York State Electric & Gas, demanding transparency and accountability from utility companies to ensure ratepayer dollars benefit local communities rather than foreign shareholders.