EXHIBIT 15 Price Waterhouse [LOGO] October 9, 1996 Securities and Exchange Commission 450 Fifth Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20549 Dear Sirs: We are aware that Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation has included our reports dated May 14, 1996 and August 12, 1996 (issued pursuant to the provisions of Statement on Auditing Standards No. 71) in its Registration Statement on Form S-8 to be filed on or about September 20, 1996. We are also aware of our responsibilities under the Securities Act of 1933. Yours very truly, /s/ Price Waterhouse LLP PRICE WATERHOUSE LLP