Utility Rate Case Study

From Intervention to Impact: How Westchester Leaders Navigated the Utility Process for an Energy Affordability Win 

In 2025, faced with an impending energy affordability crisis for residents and small businesses in their communities, a coalition of 40 municipalities across southeast New York formed the Westchester Municipal Consortium (WMC). They came together to intervene in a major Consolidated Edison (Con Edison) rate case on behalf of their communities, which included more than 1 million residents.

Led by Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard of Mount Vernon, NY, and Mayor Nicola Armacost, Former Mayor of Hastings-on-Hudson, NY, the WMC successfully championed community concerns and negotiated a settlement that dramatically reduced the utility's proposed rate hikes. The intervention prevented double-digit rate increases for electric and natural gas and secured commitments to ongoing cooperation and transparency with Con Edison.

Mayors play a critical role in decisions made by electric utilities and public utility commissions that significantly affect energy affordability and climate progress. This case study demonstrates replicable actions mayors can take to secure an affordable future for residents.