"New Yorkers Brace for Double Utility Costs by 2025, with Steep 9% Increase Next Month"

New Yorkers will face a steep increase in their Con Edison gas and electricity bills, with rates set to double by 2025. The state's top public utility regulator has approved a rate hike, with a 9% increase scheduled for next month. The average resident using 600-kilowatt hours of electricity per month will see their bill surge by $14.44 in August. Gas customers will also be affected, with bills increasing by $17.28 for those using an average of 100 therms per month. The rate hikes are attributed to rising company costs, property taxes, and efforts to improve operations and meet climate change goals. The approved deal has drawn criticism for burdening struggling New Yorkers.