New York Issues Bold Energy Efficiency Order

ALBANY, N.Y. – The New York State Public Service Commission (PSC) today issued an order, implementing the “New Efficiency: New York” plan to bolster its energy efficiency and building decarbonization goals. The programs implemented as part of the order will save more than 35 TBtu of energy through 2025, equivalent to the energy used in 340,000 homes – and contribute significantly toward the savings from energy efficiency necessary for New York to meet its 2030 carbon reduction goals under the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA).

The following are statements from energy efficiency advocates on the PSC order:

“This is a crucial win that lays a strong foundation for New York to achieve its ambitious climate goals,” said Samantha Wilt, Senior Policy Analyst for Climate and Clean Energy at the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC). “Speed is of the essence when it comes to bending the curve on climate pollution – there is no cheaper or faster way to do that than investing in energy efficiency. This order also has massive job-creating potential and will improve New Yorkers’ homes and businesses, making them more comfortable, healthier and less polluting.” 

Chris Halfnight, Associate Director of Policy at Urban Green Council, said: “Energy efficiency is our first and best option for cutting building carbon emissions. We applaud Governor Cuomo and the Public Service Commission for an order that will help drive cost savings, green jobs and nation-leading climate progress through 2025.”

“Energy efficiency helps tenants and building owners manage their bills while creating healthier and more comfortable homes,” said Valerie Strauss, Director of Policy & Regulatory Affairs for the Association for Energy Affordability, Inc. “We look forward to working with all stakeholders to ensure effective program designs appropriate to the unique built environment in each utility territory.  Energy efficiency also is a win for the planet, as reduced and smarter energy use results in lower emissions and an easier pathway for our transition to a renewable energy supply.”

“We are thrilled to see a strong start to the new year in New York with this redoubling of the state’s commitment to energy efficiency, which will deliver a third of the carbon savings we need by 2030," said Betta Broad, Director of New Yorkers for Clean Power. "The transition to a clean energy economy that meets both our energy needs and climate goals can only happen with strong incentives for energy efficiency and heat pumps."

“Congratulations to Governor Cuomo and the New York State Public Service Commission for doing the right thing on behalf of every New Yorker’s climate future. This PSC order advances from the fact that energy efficiency is a necessary building block for achieving climate security while helping to secure a just economy for all.”  Nancy Anderson, Ph.D., Executive Director, The Sallan Foundation.

"Governor Cuomo and the Public Service Commission took a big step today in transitioning the state of New York to a clean energy future that is better for the ratepayers, the economy, and the planet. This Order lays the foundation for the growth of efficiency as an energy and climate resource now and in the future. And it sends a strong signal to the market that New York is open for business when it comes to energy efficiency investment and jobs." Andy Frank, Founder and President, Sealed.

"The Sierra Club applauds Governor Cuomo’s commitment in advancing bold, clean energy action beginning with the rapid implementation of New York’s nation-leading climate law," said Lisa Dix, Senior New York Campaigns Manager, Sierra Club. “Today’s energy efficiency order is the state’s most cost-effective step in meeting its ambitious climate goals while saving New Yorkers money on their energy bills, and creating family-wage jobs in New York’s clean energy economy.”

“The Alliance for Clean Energy New York is pleased that Governor Cuomo and the Public Service Commission recognize the importance of energy efficiency in meeting the State’s climate goals,” said Deb Peck Kelleher, Policy and Operations Director at ACE NY. “Today’s Order Efficiency improvements are a big win for our residents and our economy, saving homeowners money and creating jobs across New York.”

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The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) is an international nonprofit environmental organization with more than 3 million members and online activists. Since 1970, our lawyers, scientists, and other environmental specialists have worked to protect the world's natural resources, public health, and the environment. NRDC has offices in New York City, Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Bozeman, MT, and Beijing. Visit us at www.nrdc.org and follow us on Twitter @NRDC.​