New York Governor Announces Program to Cut Electric Bills for Low-Income Households
ALBANY, N.Y. — Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a new program aimed at reducing electric bills for low-income households in underserved communities across the state.
Background
The Renewable Energy Access and Community Help (REACH) program, approved by the Public Service Commission, builds upon the existing Energy Affordability Program and the statewide Solar for All program. This new program is designed to provide credits to low-income households in poverty-stricken areas of the state.
How the Program Works
The NYPA REACH program will use renewable energy credits to discount the bills of customers who are in the EAP. This program is designed to deliver more resources directly to those who need it most.
Program Expansion
The program will initially focus on low-income customers across the state, but officials aim to expand it to moderate-income customers as more resources and renewable energy projects become available.
Funding
The bill credits will be funded from a portion of revenues from new renewable energy generation projects developed by the New York Power Authority (NYPA) and designated for REACH.
Implementation
NYPA will manage the program and work with utility providers to implement REACH. The Long Island Power Authority will also bring REACH to Long Island.
Conclusion
The NYPA REACH program is a step towards ensuring that low-income New Yorkers in disadvantaged communities are not left behind as the state transitions to a clean-energy economy. By providing credits to low-income households, this program aims to make electricity more affordable and reduce the burden on low-income families.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who is eligible for the REACH program?
A: Low-income households in poverty-stricken areas of the state are initially eligible for the program.
Q: How will the program work?
A: The program will use renewable energy credits to discount the bills of customers who are in the EAP.
Q: How is the program funded?
A: The bill credits will be funded from a portion of revenues from new renewable energy generation projects developed by NYPA and designated for REACH.
Q: Will moderate-income customers be eligible for the program in the future?
A: Yes, the program aims to expand to moderate-income customers as more resources and renewable energy projects become available.
