Con Edison Gas Delivery Costs Under Scrutiny in New Study

A recent study by Bronx Representative Ritchie Torres has revealed that Con Edison charges nearly double for gas delivery compared to its competitor, National Grid, raising concerns about potential overcharges. The study found that average delivery costs per thermal unit of gas in the Bronx were $1.29, while Manhattan customers paid $1.01, and those in parts of Queens faced costs of 92 cents. In contrast, National Grid's average delivery cost was significantly lower at 54 cents, with Queens customers paying just 45 cents. Torres is urging the New York State Public Service Commission to investigate these "inexplicable disparities," emphasizing the need for regulatory action against what he describes as predatory pricing. He stated, “When a state-sanctioned monopoly abuses its power to overcharge the public... the burden falls on both the Governor and the Public Service Commission to act swiftly.” The findings have sparked outrage among Con Edison customers, with residents expressing frustration over rising fees and the financial strain on households. Local landlord Ardon Wiener, who assisted in the study, attributed the cost differences to inefficiencies within Con Edison’s operations. He argued that consumers are unfairly bearing the costs of these inefficiencies, leading to higher prices for similar services. While Con Edison acknowledged the cost disparity, a company spokesperson defended its pricing by highlighting investments in safety and clean energy initiatives, including infrastructure upgrades and advanced gas detection technology.