ALBANY \u2013 New York\u2019s electricity regulator is demanding Con Ed devise a plan to address the reliability of the Big Apple\u2019s grid \u2014 after frightening concerns about the potential for blackouts came to light.<\/p>\n
The move follows stark warnings from the independent operator of the Empire State\u2019s electric grid that increased electricity demand and decreasing fossil fuel generation capacity may lead to power outages in New York City as soon as next summer.<\/p>\n
\u201cIf these risks materialize without timely action, the consequences could extend beyond operational challenges to widespread impacts on public safety, property, and economic activity,\u201d New York\u2019s Independent System Operator wrote in a report<\/a> this month.<\/p>\n The state Public Service Commission says the findings are prompting them to push Con Ed for a response ahead of next summer \u2014 when electricity demand is typically higher.<\/p>\n Gov. Kathy Hochul\u2019s public service commission is pushing Con Ed ahead of a potentially shaky summer for the Big Apple\u2019s grid in 2026. Matthew McDermott for NY Post<\/p>\n Con Edison is hiking electricity prices on ratepayers beginning in 2026, at the same time New York\u2019s grid operator warns of potential blackouts. Corbis via Getty Images<\/p>\n \u201cEnsuring the safety and reliability of our electric grid is a top priority for the Commission,\u201d PSC Chairman Rory Christian wrote in a statement about the Con Ed study. \u201cGiven that fact, it is critically important that we turn over every stone to fully understand and plan for any reliability needs in our largest metropolitan area.\u201d<\/p>\n Meanwhile, the company is set to jack up delivery rates for electricity by 2.8% and for natural gas by 2%, beginning in January.<\/p>\n In a statement to The Post, a Con Ed spokesperson maintained that the company has a \u201cstrong record\u201d of reliability.<\/p>\n Public Service Commission Chair Rory Christian said grid \u201csafety and reliability\u201d is a \u201ctop priority.\u201d State Public Service Commission<\/p>\n \u201cCon Edison powers the economic engine of our country by delivering the most reliable energy to more than 9 million people who live, work, and travel through New York City every day,\u201d the spokesperson wrote.<\/p>\n \u201cWe will continue to work collaboratively with NYISO, regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders to make sure the reliability needs of our customers are met, now and in the future.\u201d<\/p>\n