PSC Revisits Energy Efficiency Decision

• by New York State Public Service Commission

ALBANY, NY (12/16/2009)(readMedia)-- The New York State Public Service Commission (Commission) today approved certain modifications to the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority's (NYSERDA) popular multifamily energy efficiency program.

"Improving the energy efficiency of multifamily buildings is a critical component toward reaching our goal of reducing energy consumption in New York," said Commission Chairman Garry Brown. "In addition to lowering consumer utility bills and reducing our dependence on costly fossil fuels, this important energy efficiency initiative will help improve the environment by reducing the state's carbon footprint."

To ensure success of the multifamily energy efficiency effort, the Commission authorized NYSERDA to provide programs totaling $26.3 million to the owners of multifamily buildings, including $6.56 million set aside for low-income properties.

Among the modifications that are being made in the program, the Commission granted NYSERDA permission to continue using its current method of estimating savings from replacement refrigerators while developing methods to refine such estimates in collaboration with Department of Public Service Staff, and to adopt performance-based, technology-neutral standard for lighting fixtures.

Building owners participating in the program are required to provide financial support for energy efficiency measures. Examples of low-cost improvements that might be made to a multifamily building include better lighting and water conservation measures to reduce the demand for domestic hot water. Examples of major improvements include changes to the building envelope, weatherization measures, and installation of more energy efficient residential-sized and non-residential sized heating equipment and central heating plant.

The Commission's decision today, when issued, may be obtained by going to the Commission Documents section of the Commission's Web site at www.dps.state.ny.us and entering Case Number 08-E-1132 in the input box labeled "Search for Case/Matter Number." Many libraries offer free Internet access. Commission orders may also be obtained from the Commission's Files Office, 14th floor, Three Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12223 (518-474-2500).

-30-