The New York State Public Service Commission will hold a virtual public statement hearing on January 13, 2026, to gather input regarding an application by Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation, doing business as National Grid. The company is seeking a Certificate of Environmental Compatibility and Public Need under Article VII of the Public Service Law for a proposed transmission line rebuild.
If approved, the certificate would allow National Grid to rebuild sections of its existing 115 kilovolt transmission lines between the Black River Substation in LeRay, Jefferson County, and the Clay Substation in Clay, Onondaga County. The total distance covered by the project is approximately 60.9 miles. The route passes through several towns in Jefferson, Oswego, and Onondaga counties.
The proposal divides the project into two main segments: a 35.9-mile double circuit section from Black River to Light House Hill and a 25-mile bussed section from Light House Hill to Clay. Both segments are planned to be rebuilt as two single circuit facilities. Expansion of the Staplin Creek Substation beyond its current boundaries is also included in the project scope.
Under state law, the Commission has authority to adopt, reject, or modify National Grid’s proposal after considering feedback from participants and members of the public.
A virtual public statement hearing will take place before an assigned Administrative Law Judge on Tuesday, January 13 at 1:00 p.m., accessible via https://meetny-gov.webex.com with access code 2823 450 8635 and password Jan13-1pm. Phone-only access is available at 1-929-251-9612 using access code 2823 450 8635 and password 52613017.
Anyone wishing to make a statement during the hearing must register by January 12 at 4:30 p.m., either electronically through https://dps.ny.gov/calendar or by phone at 1-800-342-3330. Registered speakers will be called upon during the hearing; reasonable time limits may be set for each speaker. A verbatim transcript will be posted on the Department of Public Service’s website.
Those who prefer not to speak can listen in by calling the number provided above or submit comments online or by mail referencing “Case 25-T-0184.” Comments must be received no later than March 31, 2026; late submissions may not be considered.
Individuals with disabilities needing accommodations should contact Human Resources Management at (518)473-9463 or use New York Relay Service at 711 for sign language interpretation requests. Language assistance services are available by calling (800)342-3377.
Comments can also be submitted via mail addressed to Hon. Michelle L. Phillips, Secretary of the Public Service Commission at Three Empire State Plaza in Albany or through electronic filing on www.dps.ny.gov under case number “25-T-0184.” Comments left on the toll-free Opinion Line (1-800-335-2120) will be summarized for consideration but not transcribed verbatim.
