Powering New York’s Future

The public, businesses and assemblymembers join together to reshape New York’s energy and economic development future

December 2, 2009

Albany – Assembly leaders hosted a public hearing on the future of energy incentive programs designed to create and sustain jobs throughout New York. The hearing included testimony on developing long term approaches to improve energy policy and economic development that includes the voices of businesses, trade groups and the public.

In recent months, Legislators have hosted multiple hearings to collect input that will help shape policies to best utilize the resources of the New York Power Authority (NYPA). The goal is to lower energy costs for businesses while keeping and creating hundreds of thousands of jobs for New Yorkers.

Better targeting and delivery of economic incentives and an examination of ways to augment the NYPA’s stewardship of this vital economic engine were discussed. Legislators heard testimony on the value of these programs and innovative suggestions to improve economic activity. The hearing, which received testimony from businesses, trade groups and community leaders, was attended by New York State’s Assembly Committees overseeing energy policy, governmental authorities, and economic development.

The New York Power Authority and the Empire State Development Corporation shared their vision for improving existing law, as well as their experience with administration and performance under existing statute. Energy companies touted the benefits hydropower to their customers, while businesses and labor organizations stressed the importance of fixed low, cost power in retaining and creating jobs. Not-for-profit organizations highlighted benefits derived from low cost power and environmental advocates urged increased energy efficiency accountability standards.

"New York's low cost power programs, while instrumental in helping to create and protect hundreds of thousands of jobs, have failed to keep pace with a rapidly evolving economic landscape," said Assemblyman Cahill. "We need to overhaul these initiatives to make sure they are addressing the needs of emerging industries and providing businesses with the stability and continuity they need to make the investments that will create jobs here in New York."

"These programs need reform; simply extending them for another year is no longer an option," said Assemblyman Cahill. "This open dialogue is about creating a viable, attractive long term low cost power initiative that will encourage new development throughout the State."

"We need practical, common-sense, economic development programs that reward the average consumer with better, more efficient, and less costly energy. I look forward to working with Assemblyman Cahill and my colleagues on this important issue," said Assemblyman Richard Brodsky (D-Greenburgh).

"I applaud Assemblyman Cahill and his colleagues for conducting numerous hearings concerning the vital low cost, economic development power programs of New York State," said Randy Wolken, president of MACNY – the Manufacturers Association. "It is important to create a long-term program that retains and attracts advanced manufacturers and other critical industries for New York State. These vital programs can and must do this in a way crafted to meet the needs of the 21st Century."

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