Bill > A02127

This bill establishes the Hudson Valley Power Authority (HVPA), a public benefit corporation designed to own and operate electricity services in the Central Hudson Gas and Electric service area. The authority will be governed by a nine-member board of trustees appointed by various state leaders, including representatives from local government, labor unions, and an observatory board. Key provisions include: The HVPA will aim to procure 70% renewable electricity by 2030 and 100% by 2040, ensure at least 35% of clean energy benefits go to disadvantaged communities, and potentially phase out gas infrastructure. The authority can acquire existing utility infrastructure through purchase or eminent domain, with a focus on maintaining existing jobs and providing worker protections. It will create a public distributed renewable energy program and establish a community-controlled observatory to monitor its operations. The bill includes extensive provisions for rate-setting, with a commitment to progressive green rates that increase in cost as energy consumption rises. The first block of residential energy use will be priced below market rates. The authority is exempt from many public service regulations but must still comply with certain environmental and labor standards. The bill also creates a Hudson Valley Power Authority Observatory, a non-profit organization with 15 members who will monitor the utility, conduct research, and support local energy projects. The observatory will have councils for monitoring, research, and local projects, including a participatory budgeting process for community benefit projects. Financially, the authority can issue bonds and is tax-exempt, though it will make payments in lieu of taxes to local municipalities. The bill emphasizes community involvement, environmental justice, and creating a more responsive and locally-controlled power utility.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A2127