ALBANY – The New York State Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NYSRECA) is sounding the alarm over the New York Power Authority’s (NYPA) proposed rate hike, which would nearly triple the cost of renewable hydropower from the Niagara Power Project. This unprecedented increase—from $12.88 to $33.05 per megawatt hour over four years—was revealed in a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking issued by NYPA’s Board of Trustees.
NYSRECA, alongside the New York Association of Public Power (NYAPP), argues the plan defies federal and state mandates requiring hydropower to be sold at the “lowest rates reasonably possible.” The increased costs would disproportionately impact rural residents and businesses already grappling with inflation and high energy prices.
Affordability Under Threat
NYSRECA’s members, representing four non-profit rural electric cooperatives, have long been champions of renewable energy, delivering 87% clean power to their consumers—far exceeding state climate requirements. These cooperatives serve some of New York’s most remote and economically vulnerable communities.
The proposed rate hike would not only increase costs but also change the decades-old rate-setting methodology enshrined in NYPA’s power supply contracts. NYSRECA leaders warn that this move undermines the affordability of renewable energy and jeopardizes their ability to support NYPA’s mission of a clean energy transition.
Call for Public Action
NYSRECA is urging its members and the public to voice their concerns during the comment period for NYPA’s Rate Modification Plan. “This proposal is a direct challenge to the principles of fairness and affordability that should underpin our clean energy goals,” said the NYSRECA spokesperson.
Take Action
The public is encouraged to participate in the comment period to hold NYPA accountable and ensure energy remains affordable for all New Yorkers.
