01.05.2026 DPS Marks Significant 2025 Achievements
ALBANY — The New York State Public Service Commission (PSC or Commission) and its staff arm — the Department of Public Service (DPS or Department) — marked the new year by taking note of the significant progress made in 2025 to ensure affordable, clean, safe, and reliable access to electric, gas, steam, telecommunications, and water services for New York State’s residential and business consumers. In 2025, the PSC focused on affordability, reliability, and safety in energy and telecommunications. Key initiatives included expanding energy affordability programs, lowering broadband costs for low-income households, and streamlining renewable energy project permitting. The agency also prioritized grid planning and public engagement. Despite challenges in federal policy, DPS is expediting renewable energy projects and promoting nuclear energy to meet clean energy goals and is well positioned to make further progress in 2026.
“In New York, we are proud of our staff and Public Service Commission’s efforts to deliver reliable, affordable and clean utility services across the State, but we still have much work to do in 2026 to address affordability and reliability concerns while advancing our nation-leading clean energy agenda,” said Department CEO Rory M. Christian. “Our energy bills are higher than we’d like, but we are below the national average. Our carbon emissions must continue to decline to address the climate crisis, but we have the lowest emissions per capita of any state in the nation. Our systems are being strained by aged infrastructure, severe weather and unprecedented new energy demand, but we are home to one of the most reliable utilities in the country. Through collaboration, innovation and a steadfast focus on the public interest, we will address our challenges in 2026 head-on while maintaining New York’s leadership on affordability, sustainability and reliability.”