Consolidated Edison controversies
Controversies tied to this brand in public sources. A listing is not a finding of fault.
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2020
New York imposes fines over utility response to 2018 storms
Fine or penalty
The New York Public Service Commission imposed fines totaling $10.75 million on Con Edison and Orange & Rockland Utility over their preparation for and handling of power outages following the March 2018 storms Riley and Quinn. The settlement also included an agreement by the utilities to implement 144 Commission recommendations.
Source excerpt
As part of the settlement, the utilities also agreed to implement 144 recommendations called for by the Commission.
a total of $10.75 million in fines against the company and an affiliated utility, imposed by the State for their handling of the aftermaths of two 2018 storms.
The New York Public Service Commission imposed what is the largest fine ever on Con Ed and its sister company, Orange & Rockland Utility, for their lack of preparation and the handling of power outages following back-to-back winter storms Riley and Quinn during March of 2018.
2014
East Harlem gas explosion
A gas-related explosion destroyed two East Harlem apartment buildings and killed eight people, prompting substantial public and legal scrutiny.
2012
Hurricane Sandy infrastructure failures
Flooding associated with Hurricane Sandy caused a transformer explosion at a Manhattan facility. Orange & Rockland’s restoration response was also criticized after some customers remained without power for an extended period.
2009
Queens manhole and gas-leak explosion
A simultaneous gas leak and electrical-feeder fault caused an explosion in Queens. The incident led Con Edison to revise procedures for responding to outside gas-leak reports.
2007
Grand Central steam-pipe explosion
An 83-year-old steam pipe failed in Midtown Manhattan, killing one person, injuring more than 40, and causing widespread transportation disruption.
2007
Queens gas-main rupture
A ruptured cast-iron gas main critically injured Kunta Oza, who died shortly afterward. Her family later reached a settlement with Con Edison.
2006
Criticism following Queens blackout
Public officials criticized the company’s performance in restoring service after a major Queens blackout.
2004
Jodie Lane stray-voltage death
Jodie Lane and her dog were killed after contact with a service box carrying stray voltage. The incident generated criticism of electrical safety and infrastructure inspection practices.
1989
Gramercy Park steam explosion and asbestos case
A steam-pipe explosion killed three people and injured 24. The incident also involved asbestos contamination concerns; Con Edison later pleaded guilty to making false statements concerning the contamination and paid a fine.