Bill > A09003

This bill authorizes and directs the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), the Public Service Commission (PSC), and the New York Power Authority (NYPA) to conduct a comprehensive study on potentially closing three specific peaker plants located in Brooklyn, Brentwood, and Astoria. Peaker plants are backup power generation facilities that operate only during periods of high electricity demand, and this bill recognizes that these plants are often old, inefficient, and disproportionately located in environmental justice communities. The study will examine multiple aspects of plant closure, including the impact on electricity prices, grid reliability, potential replacement with renewable energy systems or energy storage systems, effects on workers and collective bargaining agreements, black start capabilities, and potential legal barriers to site repurposing. The legislation requires a final report to be submitted within one year to key state leaders, including the governor and legislative committee chairs, and mandates that the report be published on the NYPA's website. The bill is designed to explore transitioning away from polluting, infrequently used power plants towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy generation methods, with particular attention to the economic and community impacts of such a transition.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A9003