Authorizes and directs the energy research and development authority, the public service commission and NYPA to conduct a study to determine the possibility of closing certain peaker plants.
Requires signage on state highways designating where there is a zero-emission charging and refueling station that is open and available to the public within three miles of an exit or off-ramp.
Senate Bill S 980 requires the Public Service Commission to hold public hearings before implementing any increases in utility rates, fees, or charges. These hearings must occur at least 90 days before a decision is made and within the area where the increase is proposed. The bill ensures that utility customers can provide public comments and ask questions of both the commission and the utility regarding the proposed changes. This aims to increase transparency and public engagement in decisions affecting utility costs.
Directs the New York state energy research and development authority to establish a ride clean rebate program for electric assist bicycles and electric scooters; defines terms; provides a fifty percent rebate for eligible purchases.
This bill increases financial assistance standards for New York residents receiving public assistance. Starting July 1, 2025, the monthly need standard for eligibility and maximum benefit amounts will double (e.g., from $158 to $316 for single-person households), with annual adjustments tied to federal cost-of-living changes. Home energy grants and supplemental home energy grants also double starting July 2025 (e.g., from $14.10 to $28.20 monthly for single-person households). These changes directly affect low-income individuals and families qualifying for state public assistance programs.
Bill S 7135 requires the Public Service Commission (PSC) to initiate the development of hybrid heating pilot programs across the state. Within six months, gas and combination gas and electric corporations must submit plans for these programs, which involve installing systems that pair heat pump technology with traditional gas heating. The plans must prioritize customers in disadvantaged communities and low-to-moderate income households. The PSC will review and approve these plans, considering their potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and provide reliable heating, with utilities authorized to recover program costs through customer surcharges.
Relates to small business energy assistance and advocacy services; establishes the small business energy assistance and advocacy services program within the division for small-business; authorizes the division for small-business to initiate complaints to the public service commission regarding gas and electricity and steam heat.
This bill requires owners and operators of large outdoor cell towers (called "macro cell tower sites") in New York to install backup power systems capable of maintaining service for at least 72 hours during power outages. It applies to new installations and replacements of existing backup systems, but does not require updates to towers already equipped with backup power before the law takes effect. The backup systems must use renewable energy, fuel cells, or energy storage, excluding rooftop, small cell, or indoor antenna systems. The law takes effect 90 days after enactment.
Establishes energy efficiency measures by the public service commission and NYSERDA including requiring utilities to hire and train employees who are from priority populations or living in areas designated as environmental justice communities.
Requires at least one electric level three fast charging station available to the public for every five thousand New York state residents on a county level by December 31, 2027; provides for the siting of such charging stations; requires construction and development of such stations to comply with article 8 of the labor law including payment of the prevailing wage.
