Requires the public service commission and the New York state energy research and development authority to ensure funds are available to fund programs

1 Co-sponsor

• Simcha Felder

BILL NUMBER:S3943

Title of bill

An act to require the public service commission and the New York state energy research and development authority to ensure funds are available to fund programs assisting building owners with installing energy efficient improvements

Purpose

To provide incentives for single family and multi-family homes to use cleaner burning fuels or on-site renewable energy in order to reduce carbon emissions, improve air quality and reduce capital costs to homeowners.

Summary of provisions

Section 1. Requires the public service commission and the New York state energy research and development authority to make fifteen million dollars available for improvements to heating and cooling systems.

Section 2. Identifies the sources of funding for programs described in section one.

Section 3. Establishes that the president of the New York state energy research and development authority shall develop guidelines for eligibility for the programs described in section one.

Section 4. Sets the effective date

Justification

Currently, some dwellings use fuel sources that are more carbon-intense than others, or that operate at a lower level of efficiency than would be optimal. Although dwelling owners may want to purchase a new heating system that is less carbon-intense or more efficient, the cost of doing so is a deterrent. By providing a tax incentive, this bill would encourage homeowners to purchase more efficient and less carbon intensive heating system.

Legislative history

2013-14 - S. 4533D - Finance Committee/A. 6945b - Passed Assembly.

Fiscal implications

$15 million from the New York state Energy Research and Development Authority.

Effective date

Immediate.