The Challenge to State Regulation Agencies: The Experience of New York State

The Constitution and the nature of the energy market require the federal government to take the lead in resolving this nation's fuel supply problems; however, there is much that the states can do to help resolve the energy crisis. The New York State Public Service Commission (PSC) has established restrictions on gas use and a load shedding program. New York's recent pioneering legislation for one-stop siting of major power plants and transmission lines should help ensure the construction of needed power facilities which are located and designed for minimum adverse environmental impact. The PSC and other agencies in New York are helping the promotion of energy conserva tion and energy efficiency not only in the conversion of fuels to electric power, but also through improved building design, appliances and transportation. Finally, New York is promoting increased research and development which has been undertaken by the utilities, the federal government and the state, itself. State and federal energy programs will require new interdisciplinary approaches which transcend traditional regulatory processes to achieve the needed balance of our energy, environmental, economic, security and other significant social objectives.