ALBANY — The New York State Public Service Commission (Commission) and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), in cooperation with the Low-Income Forum on Energy (LIFE) Steering Committee, today announced an upcoming series of meetings across the State.

The seven LIFE regional meetings, which are open to the public, are intended for organizations that provide services to low-income residents. The meetings will provide an opportunity for frontline workers, community-based organizations, advocates and policymakers to meet and network with those who share the same commitment to helping low-income energy customers.

Among the topics to be addressed are the challenges and opportunities facing low-income consumers seeking safe, reliable and affordable energy. The meetings will also provide updates and information on initiatives, best practices, consumer protections and emerging issues relating to energy affordability and clean energy in low-income communities.

“LIFE provides a critical medium for service providers and community leaders to share essential information that can help low-income New Yorkers maintain their utility service,” said Commission Interim Chairman Gregg C. Sayre. “With the Energy Affordability Policy, announced by Governor Cuomo in February, nearly two million low-income New Yorkers will be provided with direct energy-cost relief each year. In addition, through a wide range of REV initiatives, New York can achieve lower energy bills for all customers, at all income levels.”

REV is the Governor’s Reforming the Energy Vision strategy for bringing about affordable, clean and reliable power for all New Yorkers.

“Energy affordability and reduced greenhouse gas emissions—two of the top New York energy priorities under Governor Cuomo—are especially important for low-income communities, which tend to be the most vulnerable to higher energy bills and environmental issues,” said John B. Rhodes, President and CEO, NYSERDA. “It is vitally important that these communities be fully informed of the programs and services that are available to them so they can address these and other energy issues.”

LIFE is the nation’s longest-running statewide dialogue on the energy needs of low-income customers and has built a reputation as an interactive exchange of ideas and resources. This year’s regional meetings will build on lessons learned in prior LIFE conferences and forums and will feature updates on Governor Cuomo’s REV strategy.

The LIFE Regional meetings scheduled include:

• May 1, 2017, New York City - Queens
• May 2, 2017, Long Island - Melville
• May 10, 2017, Western New York - Buffalo
• May 11, 2017, Southern Tier - Corning
• May 16, 2017, North Country - Watertown
• May 17, 2017, Hudson Valley - Poughkeepsie
• May 23, 2017, Capital District - Saratoga Springs
  
  

More information on the meetings, including time and location, can be found on the LIFE 2017 regional meeting registration page.

About the New York State Public Service Commission
The primary mission of the New York State Department of Public Service is to ensure affordable, safe, secure, and reliable access to electric, gas, steam, telecommunications, and water services for New York State’s residential and business consumers, while protecting the natural environment. The Department also seeks to stimulate effective competitive markets that benefit New York consumers through strategic investments, as well as product and service innovations. To learn more about NYSPSC, visit dps.ny.gov or follow us on Twitter, or Facebook.

About NYSERDA
NYSERDA, a public benefit corporation, offers objective information and analysis, innovative programs, technical expertise, and support to help New Yorkers increase energy efficiency, save money, use renewable energy, and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. NYSERDA professionals work to protect the environment and create clean energy jobs. NYSERDA has been developing partnerships to advance innovative energy solutions in New York State since 1975. To learn more about NYSERDA's programs, visit nyserda.ny.gov or follow us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, or Instagram.

About LIFE
The Low-Income Forum on Energy (LIFE) is a unique statewide dialogue that brings together organizations and individuals committed to addressing the challenges and opportunities facing low-income New Yorkers as they seek safe, affordable and reliable energy. Supported by the New York State Public Service Commission and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), LIFE encourages an interactive exchange of information and collaboration among the programs and resources that assist low-income energy consumers.

About Reforming the Energy Vision

Reforming the Energy Vision (REV) is Governor Andrew M. Cuomo's strategy to lead on climate change and grow New York's economy. REV is building a cleaner, more resilient and affordable energy system for all New Yorkers by stimulating investment in clean technologies like solar, wind, and energy efficiency and generating 50 percent of the state's electricity needs from renewable energy by 2030. Already, REV has driven a nearly 800 percent growth in the statewide solar market, enabled over 105,000 low-income households to permanently cut their energy bills with energy efficiency, and created thousands of jobs in manufacturing, engineering, and other clean tech sectors. REV is ensuring New York State reduces statewide greenhouse gas emissions 40 percent by 2030 and achieves the internationally-recognized target of reducing emissions 80 percent by 2050. To learn more about REV, including the Governor's $5 billion investment in clean energy technology and innovation, please visit www.ny.gov/REV4NY and follow.