Barrett, Comrie Urge Governor Hochul to Sign Legislation Restoring Consumer Advocate to State Energy Planning Board

Assemblymember Didi Barrett (D-Dutchess/Columbia) and Senator Leroy Comrie (D-Queens) are urging Governor Kathy Hochul to sign, A.4712/S.2460,  legislation they sponsored which would add a representative from the Utility Intervention Unit to the New York State Energy Planning Board, ensuring that consumers have a voice in the energy planning process. The Energy Planning Board recently released the 2025 Draft Energy Plan for public comment through October 6th.

“I believe it is critical that this legislation be signed before the 2025 Energy Plan is adopted, as the next Energy Plan will not be released until 2040,” said Assemblymember Didi Barrett, Chair of the Assembly Energy Committee. “As the only legislator currently serving on the State Energy Planning Board, I see a need for more consumer voices involved in shaping New York’s energy future. Including a consumer advocate will ensure that affordability, equity, and transparency are at the core of our clean energy transition, and I strongly encourage Governor Hochul to sign this legislation while the planning process is underway to give New Yorkers a seat at the table.

“New Yorkers deserve an energy future that is affordable, fair and inclusive. Restoring the Utility Intervention Unit’s seat on the State Energy Planning Board ensures that consumer voices, particularly those from communities who often bear the highest costs are not left out of the conversation. As we work toward a clean energy transition, this legislation will help guarantee that equity and transparency remain at the forefront,” said Senator Comrie. “I join Assemblymember Barrett in urging Governor Hochul to sign this bill so we can deliver on our promise to protect ratepayers and strengthen our state’s energy future.”

This legislation restores a critical consumer protection voice to the State Energy Planning Board at a time when New Yorkers are grappling with rising utility costs. By ensuring the Utility Intervention Unit has a seat at the table, we can better advocate for fair rates, equitable policies, and a clean energy transition that benefits all communities. 

The State Energy Planning Board includes representatives from various state agencies and the New York State Legislature, and is charged with creating a comprehensive Energy Plan for the future of New York’s energy infrastructure, including the implementation of renewable energy. In 1994, the Consumer Protection Board had 31 staff people dedicated to utility intervention. This board was eliminated in 2012 and the Utility Intervention Unit was transferred to the Department of State. However, their seat on the State Energy Planning Board was not included in the new statute. This bill would restore this seat on the Board, allowing the Secretary of State to appoint a member of the Utility Intervention Unit to advocate for consumer interests in the State Energy Plan.