National Grid Released Winter Forecast for Upstate New York

Upstate New York residents can expect lower natural gas costs this winter, while electric bills are projected to rise.

Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Utilities

National Grid Released Winter Forecast for Upstate New York

Live Poll

Are rising energy costs becoming an unmanageable burden for your household budget?

National Grid has released its winter bill forecast for Upstate New York, indicating a projected decrease in natural gas costs and an increase in electric rates. These estimates are based on normal weather expectations and market data through September 2026.

Why it matters

The shifts in projected winter bills are driven by fluctuating supply costs and broader market conditions affecting both gas and electric energy prices. Understanding these trends helps households manage their budgets throughout the heating season.

A typical residential natural gas customer in the region is expected to save $9 this winter based on 713 therms of usage. Meanwhile, electric bills are forecasted to rise by 3-5 percent over the five-month period, totaling an increase of $22 to $39.

The players

National Grid

National Grid is an international utility company that provides electricity and natural gas services to millions of customers across the United Kingdom and the northeastern United States.

The details

National Grid manages price volatility for customers by storing natural gas and securing supply at fixed prices, as they do not apply markups to supply charges. Households looking to offset potential cost increases can utilize energy-saving measures, such as reducing home drafts or switching to LED lighting, to manage their monthly expenses.

September 2026 data informed the winter projections.
The winter heating season begins Nov. 1, 2026.
The winter heating season ends March 31, 2027.
The National Grid Care & Share Energy Fund opens in February 2027.

Market Landscape

This forecast follows the established pattern of National Grid's seasonal energy supply cost forecasting to provide transparency to utility customers. The utility industry continues to navigate fluctuating global energy markets, forcing companies to balance fixed-price supply hedging against variable consumer demand.

While natural gas heating costs are expected to see a slight decline, residents should prepare for higher monthly electric bills throughout the winter. Consumers can mitigate these impacts by monitoring their energy usage and utilizing assistance programs if financial challenges arise.

The takeaway

Proactively adjusting home thermostats and sealing drafts can provide significant relief for household energy budgets. Taking these small steps is essential for managing costs as electricity prices face upward pressure this season.