NY State Public Service Commission launches review of resource adequacy programs

The New York State Public Service Commision (PSC) recently initiated a review of the state’s resource adequacy programs to determine if they align with renewable energy and emission reduction goals.

Resource adequacy is the electric system’s ability to supply and deliver the total quantity of electricity demanded at any given time.

The PSC said the primary goal of the new proceeding is to consider whether capacity products are likely long-term effective solutions for the state’s resource adequacy needs given the likely future generating resource mix.

New York has adopted policies to encourage the growth of onshore and offshore wind, solar, and energy storage resources as part of its clean energy goals.

“New York’s Reforming the Energy Vision strategy to create a cleaner, affordable and more resilient energy system is working,” Commission Chair John B. Rhodes said. “We must continue to make sure that all of the state’s energy policies share a common goal to ensure clean, reliable, and affordable energy while meeting Governor Cuomo’s ambitious carbon-reduction goals.”

The review will focus on the policy position the Commission should take in regards to resource adequacy; how policies can best be aligned under existing mechanisms or whether new alternative approaches should be pursued; and cost impacts and benefits to consumers under various resource adequacy mechanisms.

The Commission noted that it is aiming to provide guidance for resource procurements and to promote infrastructure investment that is aligned with the state’s public policy objectives while ensuring reliability.

The proceeding will include opportunities for public comment and review, the PSC said.