NYSEG criticized the Cayuga County Legislature's action Tuesday requesting a state investigation into the utility company's billing practices.
In a statement provided to 人兽性交, a NYSEG spokesperson said, "To call for an investigation based on misinformation is misguided and does nothing to lower rates."
They continued, "We'd appreciate the opportunity to point out the facts and remind the county Legislature that the Public Service Commission already regulates NYSEG and closely monitors and reviews our customer service and billing metric records monthly."
NYSEG blamed energy generation supply prices from out-of-state suppliers, state mandates and taxes as the "true drivers of high utility bills in New York state."
The statement was in response to the Legislature's passage of a resolution requesting the state attorney general's office and Public Service Commission conduct an audit of NYSEG and RG&E's billing practices. The resolution was introduced after complaints from constituents about their utility bills spiking over the winter.
This winter, 人兽性交 interviewed several NYSEG customers who reported their bills increased by more than 100%. A NYSEG spokesperson said then that the billing increases were due to energy supply costs and colder weather. The company explained that it is responsible for energy delivery costs and they "do not profit from supply charges."
Cayuga County Legislature Chairman Jonathan Anna, I-Sterling, and Legislator Mark Strong, R-Moravia, introduced the resolution. The text of the measure mentions "numerous complaints have been raised by residents and businesses regarding inaccurate billing, sudden rate spikes, delayed or estimated meter readings, and lack of transparency in NYSEG and RG&E's billing practices."
The billing issues, the resolution continues, "have caused financial hardship for many residents and businesses in Cayuga County, raising concerns about fairness, accountability and proper regulatory oversight." The lawmakers are seeking an independent investigation to determine any errors, inconsistencies or overcharges that occurred.
Copies of the resolution will be sent to state and local leaders, including Gov. Kathy Hochul. In February, Hochul ordered an audit of utility management compensation, which included NYSEG.
Government reporter Robert Harding can be reached at (315) 664-4631 or robert.harding@lee.net. Follow him on X @RobertHarding.