BILL NUMBER: S6667
SPONSOR: HARCKHAM
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act establishing the New York state energy storage siting task force;
and providing for the repeal of such provisions upon expiration thereof
 
PURPOSE:
This bill establishes the New York State Energy Storage Siting Task
Force to improve the siting process for energy storage projects across
the state.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1 establishes the New York State Energy Storage Siting Task
Force within the DPS, it outlines its composition of 15 members, includ-
ing representatives from key state agencies, gubernatorial appointees,
and legislative appointees with expertise in fire safety, energy stor-
age, and clean energy siting.
Section 2 establishes that task force members will not be compensated
except for necessary expenses that are incurred during the performance
of their duties.
Section 3 requires that the task force meet at least six times a year,
with a majority constituting a quorum for official actions.
Section 4 outlines what powers and duties are given to the task force
including reviewing existing fire safety research, supporting regulatory
processes, developing best practice materials for municipalities,
conducting public hearings, and issuing both an interim progress report
and a final report to the Governor and Legislature.
Section 5 directs the DPS to provide necessary facilities, assistance,
and data to support the task force's work, with other state agencies
required to assist upon request.
Section 6 sets the effective date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
New York has a rapidly growing energy storage sector that is essential
for achieving the state's clean energy goals, but proper siting and
safety measures must also be in place to ensure its successful deploy-
ment. This bill establishes a task force to review existing research,
support regulatory processes, and develop best practices for munici-
palities and industry professionals. By bringing together experts from
state agencies, the energy industry, and fire safety professionals, the
task force will help address challenges related to safety, permitting,
and community concerns.
The task force will also ensure that state and local governments have
the necessary guidance to safely integrate energy storage projects while
protecting public health and safety. Through public hearings, research,
and stakeholder engagement, the task force will issue recommendations
and reports to support responsible energy storage deployment. These
efforts will help promote grid reliability, reduce emissions, and
advance New York's transition to a clean energy future.
 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
New Bill.
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
To be determined.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect on the ninetieth day after it shall have
become a law.