The public will have the chance to comment on how utility companies responded to severe windstorms that wiped through Western New York earlier this month at four hearings hosted by the Department of Public Service.
New York Governor Andrew Cuomo directed the Department of Public Service to conduct an investigation into Rochester Gas and Electric Corporation’s (RG&E) and New York State Electric and Gas Corporation’s (NYSEG) storm preparedness. The storms caused widespread power outages on March 8 and 9, leaving more than 100,000 people without power.
Cuomo also directed the Department to ramp up their oversight into these companies. Utilities are now required to develop comprehensive storm response plans approved by the Public Service Commission (PSC). The PSC approved RG&E’s and NYSEG’s plans last year, and updates to that plan on March 9.
The upcoming public statement hearings will function as part of the investigation by asking people affected by the windstorms a series of questions concerning utility company response.
The public hearings will be held Wednesday, April 12 at Southside Commerce Center Auditorium at 2:00 PM and 6:00PM; and Thursday, April 13 at Monroe Community College at 2:00 PM and 6:00 PM.
You can comment online by visiting the Public Service Commission website, by clicking “search” and entering the matter 17-00540, then click “Post Comments”. You can also email comments to the Secretary at secretary@dps.ny.gov, or call the Opinion Line at 1-800-335-2120.
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