Two recent reports from the New York Independent System Operator (NYISO) have raised concerns about the reliability of New York’s power grid and the impact of state energy policies. Assemblyman Matt Simpson (R,C-Adirondack) responded to the findings by criticizing the state’s approach to electrification and warning about potential consequences for residents.
NYISO’s Short-Term Assessment of Reliability (STAR) indicates that reliability violations could occur in New York City and Long Island as soon as next summer. The report points to several factors, including the retirement of power generators, increased demand from large electrification projects such as data centers and semiconductor manufacturing, and aging transmission infrastructure.
A second report, the Comprehensive Reliability Plan (CRP), outlines further challenges for the next decade. It highlights issues such as an aging fleet of power generators, obstacles to developing new energy resources due to restrictive policies, supply chain difficulties, and the possible need for thousands of megawatts of new dispatchable power to prevent grid failures.
“Albany’s obsession with a one-size-fits-all electrification agenda is a disaster waiting to happen,” said Simpson. “We’re forcing families to swap gas stoves and furnaces for electric alternatives while our grid buckles under the weight of these misguided mandates. Residents across the state shouldn’t have to choose between keeping the lights on and affording their next grocery bill.
“The NYISO reports are a wake-up call,” Simpson continued. “Instead of forcing unattainable green targets, Gov. Hochul and legislative Majority must work with Minority lawmakers to modernize our grid and incentivize diverse energy sources so that ratepayers do not suffer from the fallout.”
The reports note that rapid electrification efforts and delays in upgrading infrastructure may put the reliability of the grid at risk in the near future. NYISO emphasizes that new energy sources and improvements to existing systems will be needed to meet growing demand and avoid service interruptions.
