Bitter Cold Sparks Surge in Energy Bills Across Rochester

A stretch of bitter cold temperatures has sent heating systems into overdrive across Rochester, driving up monthly utility bills and straining household budgets already stretched by inflation.

Residents across Monroe County report sharp increases in natural gas and electric bills following weeks of below-average temperatures, with some saying their statements jumped by hundreds of dollars compared to the same period last year.

According to the National Weather Service, Rochester experienced multiple days of single-digit temperatures and wind chills below zero in recent weeks. Extended cold snaps force furnaces and space heaters to run longer and more frequently, significantly increasing energy consumption.

For customers of Rochester Gas and Electric (RG&E), higher bills are the result of both increased usage and seasonal supply costs. Winter typically brings higher natural gas demand across the Northeast, which can influence supply charges.

“I nearly fell out of my chair when I opened the bill,” said one Beechwood resident. “We haven’t changed anything in how we use heat, but it’s been running constantly because it’s just been so cold.”

Energy experts say even well-insulated homes can see spikes during prolonged extreme cold. When temperatures remain below freezing for extended periods, heating systems must work harder to maintain indoor temperatures, particularly in older housing stock common throughout Rochester.

The New York State Public Service Commission encourages residents to review their bills carefully to understand the breakdown between supply and delivery charges. Customers can also compare current usage to the same month in previous years, a feature available on most utility statements.

RG&E offers budget billing programs that spread out energy costs evenly over the year, helping customers avoid large seasonal spikes. The company also administers assistance programs for income-eligible households, including connections to the federally funded Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP).

City officials are reminding residents that help is available. Community organizations across Rochester are assisting families with emergency utility grants and weatherization support, including free home energy assessments and insulation upgrades.

Advocates say the recent surge highlights long-standing concerns about energy affordability in upstate New York, particularly in cities like Rochester where aging infrastructure and drafty housing can compound winter heating costs.

With several weeks of winter still ahead, residents are being urged to conserve energy where possible — lowering thermostats a few degrees, sealing drafts, using programmable thermostats, and ensuring heating systems are properly maintained.

Forecasters say temperatures are expected to moderate slightly in the coming days, but additional cold snaps remain possible before spring arrives.

For many Rochester families, relief cannot come soon enough.