New York Advocates Urge Hochul to Tackle Rising Energy Bills in State of the State

New York energy advocates are urging Governor Kathy Hochul to make affordability a top priority in her State of the State address, amid soaring energy costs. Gas prices are projected to more than double by 2026, and roughly one in seven New Yorkers is behind on bills.Kim Fraczek, director of Sane Energy, said recent victories like repealing the 100-foot gas rule and securing funding for EmPower+ will help households, but more action is needed.“The 100-foot rule has cost New Yorkers $600 million in delivery charges,” Fraczek said. “EmPower+ helps low- and moderate-income families upgrade their homes to consume less energy and lower bills.”Fraczek also urged the governor to address ongoing gas infrastructure expansion, citing its cost and lack of necessity. “We need a commitment to gas decommissioning and stronger funding for renewable energy and efficiency programs,” she said.