Tropical Storm Isaias Utility Investigation Completed

On November 19, Governor Andrew Cuomo announced that the New York State Public Service Commission has completed its investigation into the apparent failure of New York’s electric utilities to adequately prepare for and respond to Tropical Storm Isaias, which ravaged large swaths of New York State this summer. As a result of the investigation, the fastest ever conducted by New York’s utility regulator, three of the state’s largest utilities – Con Edison, O&R and Central Hudson – now face potential penalties totaling $137.3 million, with Con Edison and O&R also facing potential license revocation.

All three will now be required to explain why penalties should not be imposed by the PSC for such apparent violations of the laws, regulations and orders that are designed to ensure the safety and reliability of the electric system. PSEG LI was also the subject of the investigation, and numerous failures were identified by the New York State Department of Public Service. The Department recommended enforcement actions to the LIPA Board of Trustees earlier this week.

Audio of Governor Cuomo’s remarks is available here.

Source: The Office of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo