Bill > A00878

This bill regulates Energy Services Companies (ESCOs) by establishing new requirements for enrolling and serving residential and small non-residential customers in gas or electric service. ESCOs can only enroll or renew customers under specific conditions: by guaranteeing savings over utility prices, offering fixed-rate products priced within 5% of the utility's average supply rate, or providing renewable energy products that significantly exceed current renewable energy standards. The bill mandates that ESCOs obtain affirmative consent from customers for renewable energy contracts that do not guarantee savings, provide transparent pricing and sourcing information, and create detailed disclosure statements that must be publicly available. For low-income customers, ESCOs must submit a comprehensive plan to the department demonstrating that customers will not pay more than they would with the default utility. Additionally, enrollment contracts must include a customer notice statement in 14-point font that clearly shows pricing comparisons and savings assurances. These provisions aim to protect consumers by ensuring more transparent, cost-effective, and renewable energy options when choosing an alternative energy provider.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A878