The New York State Public Service Commission has instructed Consolidated Edison Company of New York, Inc. (Con Edison) to create a Reliability Contingency Plan aimed at addressing electricity reliability concerns in New York City. This directive is part of the Commission’s ongoing efforts to ensure the electric system operates safely and reliably while adapting to changing energy needs.
“Ensuring the safety and reliability of our electric grid is a top priority for the Commission,” said Commission Chair Rory M. Christian. “Given 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.”
The Commission’s decision follows a review of recent projections from the New York Independent System Operator (NYISO), which highlighted potential reliability issues in New York City and Long Island as early as next year. The NYISO’s long-term Comprehensive Reliability Plan (2025-2034) also raised concerns about system adequacy due to factors such as an aging generation fleet, increasing demand from new large-scale users, and difficulties in developing new resources that can be dispatched when needed. Con Edison’s own Local Transmission Plan pointed out a specific need for enhanced reliability starting in 2030, with further increases anticipated during the decade.
Under the order, Con Edison must submit a filing within 30 days detailing identified reliability needs along with supporting assumptions and methodologies. The company is also required to issue a Request for Information seeking various non-emitting solutions and hold a Technical Conference on its findings and plans.
Based on input received through this process, Con Edison will propose recommended non-emitting solutions, giving priority to those that are cost-effective, easy to implement, and minimize impacts on disadvantaged communities. The plan should outline expected timelines for bringing solutions online and describe key milestones for tracking progress. It will also assess other resources under development that could help meet reliability goals.
Once submitted, the Reliability Contingency Plan will be open for public review and comment before the Commission takes action on proposed solutions.
Recognizing similar concerns on Long Island identified by NYISO, the Commission has encouraged the Long Island Power Authority to conduct its own planning exercise using similar principles.
For more information or access to today’s decision, members of the public can visit www.dps.ny.gov and search for Case Number 25-E-0764. Additional assistance is available through libraries offering internet access or by contacting the Commission directly.
