BILL NUMBER: S7868A
SPONSOR: MAY
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the public service law and the public authorities law,
in relation to advancing grid enhancement technologies
 
PURPOSE:
To mandate the deployment of cost-effective grid-enhancing technologies
by distribution companies, ensuring increased grid capacity and effi-
ciency
 
SUMMARY OF SPECIFIC PROVISIONS:
Section 1 introduces the concept of "grid-enhancing technologies" and
provides relevant definitions. It allows dynamic line rating, advanced
reconductoring, and energy storage as transmission resources, offering
flexibility in achieving transmission goals. It authorizes utility
companies to conduct cost-effectiveness analyses during rate case
proceedings, evaluating strategies that include the deployment of these
technologies. Section 2 authorizes the New York Power Authority to
consider these technologies when constructing or upgrading transmission
lines.
Section 3 establishes the effective date of the bill.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
In order to reach the energy goals laid out by the Climate Leadership
and Community Protection Act, the state must review all areas of cur
energy system. The need for increased transmission capacity has been
well-documented. One key method with which we can efficiently boost
transmission capacity is by mandating the use of Grid Enhancing Technol-
ogies, or GETs. These technologies ensure that we are maximizing trans-
mission capacity in a relatively inexpensive manner, potentially reduc-
ing the amount of expensive transmission upgrades needed.
Some GETs are long proven and used technologies in many areas of the
world, such as dynamic line rating. Others are newer and still improving
and emerging. By regularly implementing new technologies, we can get the
most capacity cut of our transmission system and save ratepayers energy
costs.
To promote accountability and ongoing progress, this bill mandates peri-
odic reporting by utilities, providing a structured reporting mechanism
every five years. By allowing a performance incentive mechanism, this
bill would encourage utilities to deploy these technologies efficiently.
 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
New Bill.
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
To be determined.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
Ninetieth day afterming law

Statutes affected:
S7868A: 1005 public authorities law