Directs the public service commission to promulgate rules and regulations requiring vine trimming, in addition to other maintenance procedures, for the maintenance of utility poles by the utility company or cable television company that owns such utility pole where such vine growth is likely to disrupt safe and reliable service.
Requires utility service providers to disclose planned rate increases to consumers within thirty but no less than seven days before a planned price increase takes effect; requires utility providers to provide contact information and a mechanism to cancel service completely.
Requires consideration of evidence relating to the economic impact of major increases of rates or charges upon consumers and the areas affected by such increases of rates or charges prior to approval of any such rates or charges; establishes minimum data to be considered by the public service commission relating to such economic impact.
Relates to maintaining the continued viability of the state's existing large-scale, renewable energy resources; directs the public service commission, in consultation with NYSERDA to modify the competitive tier 2 program adopted by the order modifying the clean energy standard.
Directs the New York state energy research and development authority to conduct a study of the technical and economic feasibility and ratepayer impact of a zero-emission electrical system and a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
Requires each electric corporation to submit a storm hardening and system resiliency plan to the public service commission for review and approval; makes related provisions.
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.
Provides a judicial remedy to resolve complaints related to utility bills that have an alleged amount of damages exceeding twenty-five thousand dollars.
Provides the New York power authority with the right of first offer and refusal for acquiring any renewable generation facility, renewable energy generation project and any power or energy created by a renewable generation facility or renewable energy generation project.
Directs telephone corporations to use information regarding federal and state assistance programs that qualify recipients for telephone Lifeline service in offering such service.
Directs utilities to study the potential health risks and effects of smart meters including, but not limited to, the risks and effects of the installation of such smart meters, and recommended safe practices associated with the use of smart meters; requires utilities to report their findings to the public service commission; requires the public service commission to prepare a comprehensive report to the governor and legislature.
Establishes a program for eligible zero emissions energy systems to promote private sector investment for the purpose of meeting the target that by the year two thousand forty the statewide electrical demand system will be zero emissions.