ALBANY — The New York State Public Service Commission (Commission) today updated the Standardized Interconnection Requirements (SIR) for renewable distributed generators including energy storage systems. This action continues the Commission’s work to improve the interconnection process for the renewable energy developers that will allow developers to connect projects safely and reliably to the distribution system without undue delay. By applying the SIR, the interconnecting utility may effectively analyze and process a high volume of applications, and advance projects to construction.

“Distributed energy resources are critical to building out an energy system that will meet half of New York’s electricity needs with clean and renewable energy by 2030,” said Commission Chair John B. Rhodes. “The Commission continues to work with both the utilities and developers to ensure these projects come online safely and efficiently.”

Today’s order reflects the collaboration of the developers of distributed generation projects, the utilities and department staff and includes several clarifications and updates to the SIR application and technical study process. These revisions ensure necessary engineering studies are properly sequenced, provide a more transparent approach to managing construction costs and save application costs for developers.

Distributed energy resources, such as solar, wind and energy storage are being integrated into the planning and operation of electric distribution systems, to achieve optimal system efficiencies, secure universal, affordable service, and enable the development of a resilient, climate-friendly energy system.

The deployment of renewable distributed generation is an important component of New York State’s Reforming the Energy Vision (REV) strategy to create a cleaner, more resilient, and affordable energy system for all New Yorkers. Utilities and third-party providers are forming new kinds of partnerships to install clean, distributed energy resources at the “grid edge.”

Coupled with the State’s Clean Energy Standard, which requires that 50 percent of the state's electricity needs from renewable energy by 2030, REV is ensuring New York reduces statewide greenhouse gas emissions 40 percent by 2030 and achieves the internationally recognized target of reducing emissions 80 percent by 2050.