Rochester Considers Delaying Renewable Energy Goals to Mitigate Rate Hikes

Rochester's municipal utility is exploring options to extend its renewable energy target beyond the original 2030 deadline, which could reduce projected annual electric rate increases of approximately 6% by up to two percentage points. Rochester Public Utilities (RPU) General Manager Tim McCollough explained that postponing certain infrastructure projects to 2040 would align with statewide efforts to meet the 2040 carbon-free electricity goal while potentially lowering costs. The proposed delay aims to balance ongoing progress with more manageable near-term expenses. McCollough emphasized that although the city might still achieve its 2030 renewable goal, delaying some installations could benefit from improved market conditions and federal support in subsequent years. The strategy involves focusing on infrastructure that can access federal tax credits before they expire. To assess community support, RPU plans to launch a survey next week, seeking residents' opinions on postponing the renewable energy deadline to mitigate increases in their monthly bills. Current estimates forecast a $5.78 monthly rise for the average household electric bill by 2026, with an overall utility bill i...