Bill > A08889

This bill establishes the "Customer Savings and Reliability Act" to create a comprehensive framework for transitioning New York's gas utility system in an orderly, affordable, and equitable manner that aligns with the state's climate justice and emissions reduction goals. The bill requires the Public Service Commission to develop regional affordable gas transition plans within two years, dividing the state into gas transition planning regions and creating detailed strategies for systematically decommissioning discrete segments of the gas utility system. These plans must include targets for infrastructure transition, requirements for regional savings and reliability programs, and considerations for customer safety, affordability, and grid reliability. Key provisions mandate that existing residential gas customers cannot have their service involuntarily discontinued before January 2030, require utilities to provide clear notification and financial assistance for customers transitioning away from gas, and ensure that any neighborhood gas transition project must have the consent of at least 50% of affected customers. The bill also mandates that utilities prioritize voluntary disconnections, minimize transition costs, and provide support for customers to upgrade to electric heating, cooling, and appliances, with a focus on maintaining safe and reliable energy services throughout the transition process. Additionally, the bill includes protections for industrial, commercial, and critical infrastructure users, ensuring that gas service will not be discontinued for these entities without their consent.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A8889