Plattsburgh Mayor Addresses NYPA Electric Rate Hike

Increase will impact municipal utility customers, city plans to advocate for policies to protect residents

Mar. 21, 2026 at 12:34am

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The mayor of Plattsburgh, New York issued a statement regarding a recent decision by the New York Power Authority (NYPA) to increase hydropower rates supplied to municipal utilities, including Plattsburgh's municipal electric system. The increases are scheduled to begin in 2026 and continue gradually over six years, which the mayor says will directly impact residents and businesses in the city.

Why it matters

Plattsburgh has long benefited from some of the lowest electric rates in New York due to access to clean hydropower, but the NYPA rate hikes will put added pressure on local families and businesses at a time when affordability remains a top concern in the region.

The details

NYPA recently approved a phased increase in its 'preference power' rates, which supply public power systems like Plattsburgh's. A much larger increase was averted last year when the Governor stopped the proposed rate hike. The current increase comes as NYPA's debt service has grown from over $25 million to over $51 million. As part of the agreement, this debt has now been forgiven.

  • The increases are scheduled to begin in 2026.
  • The increases will continue gradually over six years.

The players

Mayor Hughes

The mayor of Plattsburgh, New York who issued a statement regarding the NYPA electric rate increase.

New York Power Authority (NYPA)

The state-owned public power utility that recently approved a phased increase in its 'preference power' rates, which supply public power systems like Plattsburgh's.

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What they’re saying

“The City of Plattsburgh has long benefited from some of the lowest electric rates in New York due to our access to clean hydropower. However, NYPA's approved rate increases will have a direct impact on our municipal electric system and, ultimately, on our residents and businesses.”

— Mayor Hughes

“We will continue to advocate at the state level to ensure that Plattsburgh will not be disproportionately impacted by rising energy costs but this deal does solidify our Preferential Hydro power till 2040 and insures clarity and limits for future rate increases.”

— Mayor Hughes

What’s next

The City plans to monitor NYPA rate adjustments and long-term impacts, advocate for policies that protect municipal power customers, and provide updates to residents as more information becomes available.

The takeaway

This rate increase highlights the challenges cities like Plattsburgh face in maintaining affordable electricity for residents and businesses, even with access to clean hydropower. The mayor's commitment to advocacy and transparency will be crucial as the city works to minimize the impact on the community.