New York State PSC recommends measures for utilities to mitigate winter energy costs
The New York Public Service Commission is reaching out to the state’s largest utility companies, urging them to mitigate the anticipated extreme commodity price increases over the winter.
At the request of Gov. Kathy Hochul, the state agency is convening fuel providers across the state to ensure adequate heating fuels are available this winter. State leaders will also stress that residents should take advantage of cost-efficient programs in anticipation of the winter to adopt energy efficiency and electrification solutions for homes and businesses.
“Just like the heat waves experienced earlier this summer, New Yorkers should be fully prepared this winter for rising global energy costs as temperatures drop and it takes more energy to heat their homes,” Hochul said. “My administration is working closely with partners across the state to make sure New Yorkers have access to assistance and programs that help manage these rising costs while keeping their homes warm during the colder months.”
In his letter to utility companies, PSC Chair Rory Christian said utilities should enhance the reliability of the natural gas distribution systems during the upcoming winter heating season. Specifically, the state’s utilities — including Con Edison, Central Hudson, Orange and Rockland, National Grid, NYSEG, RG&E, National Fuel Gas, and PSEG-LI — are urged to enhance communications with customers, inspect the alternate fuel tanks, review the supply of alternative fuel supplies, and enhanced coordination with the New York Independent System Operator and major power generators.
Christian asked for each utility to respond by Sept. 30 with recommendations for how they will execute all of these requested actions.
“Global commodity prices are likely to stay inflated and rise during the winter heating season,” Christain said. “It is, therefore, essential that utilities continue to have ongoing, robust communication with customers to help them access available assistance programs and be able to manage their energy costs. In preparation for this winter, utilities must also work with their “interruptible” customers, who by system design help to meet reliability needs during any periods of extreme cold weather by using alternate fuels.”
