NYISO Announces Consumer Advisory Council

RENSSELAER, NY (01/14/2011)(readMedia)-- The Board of Directors of the New York Independent System Operator (NYISO) has approved the creation of a Consumer Advisory Council that will provide a forum for the exchange of information between the NYISO and electricity consumers, with a focus on information sharing, outreach and education.

"I am pleased to announce the creation of the advisory council as part of our continuing efforts to strengthen consumer focus," said NYISO President and CEO Stephen G. Whitley. "The council will provide valuable input regarding the potential impacts of NYISO operations and strategic direction on electricity."

The council's primary focus will be to study the current activities being undertaken by the NYISO, become familiar with the NYISO's five-year strategic plan, learn about anticipated developments in the electric industry and provide the NYISO with its vision and recommendations as to how the NYISO can best serve New York's electricity consumers. In addition, the NYISO's president and CEO also may ask the council to provide input on specific initiatives and developments.

"As Chairman of the Senate Energy Committee, I have been a strong advocate of protecting consumers and ratepayers by making sure their voices are heard in Albany," said Senator George Maziarz. "Predictable energy policy and the continued development of competitive energy markets are critical components of our efforts to revitalize New York's economy, and the NYISO's consumer advisory council will work to ensure consumers have a voice in addressing those issues. I have worked closely with the NYISO and praise their continued efforts to provide increased transparency and consumer focus. "

The recruitment of potential members for the council is underway. The council will be comprised of a broad spectrum of academic, environmental, industry and consumer interest experts from across the nation. Recommendations for potential candidates may be submitted to Diane Egan at: degan@nyiso.com.

The creation of the Consumer Advisory Council is another step in the NYISO's ongoing efforts to develop and implement a comprehensive, proactive consumer program. The NYISO is enhancing responsiveness, increasing transparency and improving accountability with creation of a full-time consumer liaison, deployment of a redesigned website providing expanded access to NYISO board meeting minutes, strategic and business plans and more active outreach efforts to stakeholders, regulators and policy makers.