We will create the New York City Energy Efficiency Authority responsible for reaching the city's demand reduction targets.
There are currently a number of programs that target demand reduction and energy efficiency in New York City, including NYPA and NYSERDA at the State level and Con Edison at the local level. But these efforts have not always been coordinated, and the City has not had the opportunity to play a more active role in either coordination or in shaping programs of its own, beyond participating in Public Service Commission proceedings. This will have to change if the city is going to achieve unprecedented reductions in energy consumption.

To that end, we propose to create the New York City Energy Efficiency Authority which will direct all of New York City's efficiency and demand reduction efforts. These efforts would be funded through rate-payer based surcharges. This would enable the City to develop a unified effort that is well-tailored to our unique circumstances. The Authority would be charged with developing and managing programs and establishing the incentive structures required to reach the city's demand reduction targets as set by the New York City Energy Planning Board. The City, NYSERDA, Con Edison, and Keyspan would serve on the Authority's board-allowing the Authority to marshal coordinated action among these entities and utilize their resources.

The Authority's first task would be to undertake the three city-wide initiatives that follow: targeting five key areas for energy efficiency; expanding peak load management programs; and undertaking an energy awareness and training campaign. In all three of these, the City will begin working immediately through its existing institutions, but full implementation will require the coordination and funding the Authority would provide.

Progress (as of 4/22/08):
The City included its proposal for a New York City Energy Efficiency Authority (NYCEEA) as part of the Albany legislation submitted in May. In addition to the legislative proposal, the City has formalized a New York City Energy Efficiency Partnership plan in the ongoing Energy Efficiency Portfolio Standard proceeding before the PSC. In January 2008, the City and numerous other parties including Con Edison, National Grid, the New York Power Authority, and the Natural Resources Defense Council, proposed this formal structure to address joint energy efficiency efforts that would serve the purpose of the proposed NYCEEA.