S1553

The New York State Senate passed legislation Tuesday allowing customers who generate excess electricity through solar panels and other distributed energy systems to carry over net-metering credits indefinitely, with a 52-3 vote on Senate Print 1553. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Parker, would enable ratepayers to bank credits from months when they produce more power than they consume and use them during high-demand periods. Parker argued the measure empowers constituents to lower their utility costs while reducing their carbon footprint and creating clean energy jobs. However, the bill faced criticism from Republicans and some Democrats who contended it provides no immediate relief to ratepayers struggling with utility bills 50.7% above the national average. Sen. Walczyk questioned whether perpetual credits would shift costs to other customers, while Sen. Borrello blamed New York's high rates on the state's Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, which he said restricts reliable baseload power generation without viable renewable replacements. An amendment by Sen. Rolison proposing a one-year tax and surcharge holiday on utility bills was ruled nongermane and defeated. Senators Borrello, Walczyk, and Weik voted against the bill.

The Senate passed S1553, sponsored by Sen. Parker, which amends the Public Service Law. The bill received 58 votes in favor and 3 votes opposed. Senators Borrello, Griffo, and Walczyk voted against the measure. The legislation is set to take effect on January 1. No floor debate was recorded on the bill prior to the vote.