On January 29, 2010, Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation d/b/a National Grid, requested a $390 million annual increase in electric delivery rates.  The company states that the rate increase is needed to help it cope with higher operating and maintenance costs, lower sales, and new capital investment.  These rates were last updated in 2002.  The new rates may become effective on or after January 2011.

             The primary mission of the New York State Department of Public Service (DPS) is to ensure that utilities provide safe and reliable service at just and reasonable rates.  Under New York State Law, the Public Service Commission must consider a utility's proposal and may adopt or reject it in whole or in part, or adopt changes not proposed by the company.  In the near future, the public will be given an opportunity to comment on National Grid's rate increase proposal.  Prior to that time, staff of DPS' Office of Consumer Policy is seeking your assistance in identifying customer service issues that should be considered as part of the DPS review of the company's proposal.

              As a leader or service provider in your community, you are in a position to assist us in ensuring that consumers have a voice in the Public Service Commission's rate setting process.  We would appreciate you completing a brief survey to share your thoughts with DPS staff on customer service issues that may be explored through the rate proceeding, such as credit and collection, billing, and general customer service issues.