Tell the PSC to stop stalling and release energy efficiency funds!

For two years, the New York State Public Service Commission (PSC) has been collecting tax dollars on our utility bills for energy efficiency and renewable energy programs – but they're releasing it far too slowly.

The inefficiency is delaying support for programs that would reduce greenhouse gas emissions from existing buildings, improve energy efficiency and create new green jobs for NYC. It's too big an opportunity to waste.

Help us get the PSC to release this critical funding to save energy and fight global warming!

Subject:

Dear Chairman Brown

(Edit Letter Below)

Increasing energy efficiency is critical to New York's future. The State's goal of reducing electricity consumption by 15% from forecasted levels by 2015 ("15 by 15") will generate numerous economic and environmental benefits. It is particularly important to New York City, as we face both transmission constraints and growing energy demand.  The "15 by 15" goal also complements the energy and climate initiatives included in New York City's long-term sustainability plan, PlaNYC - especially the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 30% from current levels by 2030.

For all these reasons I applaud New York State's commitment to reduce electricity consumption 15% from the forecasted levels by 2015, but I am concerned that the Public Service Commission has released little of the funding collected from ratepayers that is necessary to further these goals, especially in New York City.

The City provides more than 40% of the statewide total in electric ratepayer contributions, but typically receives program benefits far short of that percentage. These programs are critically needed to implement our efficiency and renewable energy goals. In addition, the PSC has yet to approve hundreds of millions of dollars to support energy efficiency projects and programs as part of the Energy Efficiency Portfolio (EEPs) program, with some proposals still under review after nearly a year.

Of the $341 million in projects submitted to the PSC under EEPs, 63% are awaiting a decision, meaning that over $200 million in projects that could help us reduce our energy consumption are on hold. These projects include financial incentives for the purchase and installation of high-efficiency electric equipment by commercial and industrial customers, a commercial loan fund for energy efficiency projects, and the development of tools and resources to support benchmarking.

There is much more that can be done to improve energy efficiency if adequate funding were allocated. New York City's Greener Greater Buildings Plan, for example, would markedly improve the energy efficiency of existing buildings, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create new green jobs for our city. PSC funding should be made available on a timely basis to help support these goals and the programs called for in the Greener Greater Buildings Plan.

By releasing funding for energy efficiency and renewable energy programs in an efficient and timely manner, those in charge of regulating New York's energy providers can help us achieve the State and City's "15 by 15" and "30 by 30" goals by:

* Upgrading existing buildings' energy efficiency, especially multi-family buildings and commercial buildings which make up a large portion of New York City's buildings;

* Making funds available to help New Yorkers meet ambitious local energy efficiency rules;

* Engaging local utilities in ensuring we achieve the "15 by 15" and "30 by 30" goals.

At this pivotal moment, I urge you to make sure the people and agencies who are shaping New York's energy future quickly and equitably provide the funding we need to improve energy efficiency and reduce global warming emissions so we can achieve the New York State and City "15 by 15" and "30 by 30" sustainability goals.

Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.

Sincerely,
[Your name]
[Your address]

Take Action on this Issue

Dear PSC Chair Gary Brown

Chair Gary Brown (if you live in New York)
cc: Governor David Paterson (if you live in New York)

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