The Holiday Squeeze: National Grid Adds to the Pressure on New Yorkers' Wallets!

NEW YORK — Just in time for the holidays, when New Yorkers are already digging deeper into their pockets for groceries, property taxes, insurance, and Christmas shopping, National Grid has delivered another reason to keep a tight grip on your wallet.

The utility projects that Upstate New York households could see electric bills rise approximately 3% to 5% this winter, potentially adding another $22 to $39 to the average customer's seasonal expenses.

And while National Grid points to energy supply costs and market conditions, struggling families and small businesses are left with the same question: How much more can New Yorkers afford?

The November electricity supply rate has actually decreased in some Upstate areas, but that doesn't change the forecast for higher costs over the winter season.

There is a little good news: natural gas customers could see modest savings this winter.

So, as you hang your Christmas lights, turn up the heat, and prepare for the holidays, remember that the electric meter is still spinning.

Apparently, the only thing not getting a holiday discount this year is the cost of living in New York!

CNYonline.com | Your Local Connection to Central New York News