When the state Public Service Commission reads the transcript of Wednesday’s public hearing on National Grid’s proposed rate hikes, they might be surprised to see that half of the speakers supported the utility’s petition.

It’s not even fall yet, but National Grid customers may want to take note that their gas and electric bills will be going up once the spring hits. But first, customers have a chance to be heard. “When we file our rate proposal which is governed by the state,

National Grid is seeking state approval to raise customer bills by nearly $40 per month, with an average increase of $18.92 for electricity and $18.34 for natural gas. This proposal comes after RG&E customers recently saw a $12 monthly hike in their utility bills.

The first of three public hearings is Tuesday night in Albany on National Grid’s proposed rate hike. The utility submitted a proposal in May that would raise delivery rates, resulting in about a 15% increase in electric and 20% increase in gas bills for the average customer.

Hearing held to discuss proposed National Grid rate hike

National Grid heard directly from the community Tuesday night regarding proposed rate increases for next year.Dozens of people attended the public meeting held