Today I strongly denounced a plan by Governor Paterson and state Senate leaders that would force local residential energy customers to subsidize New York's Power For Jobs program.

Last night a plan was hatched by the Senate and Governor to take low-cost hydropower from Rochester and Upstate ratepayers and ship it downstate. It is unfair to force Upstate residents to be the only ones paying for this statewide program. This plan is unsound and I intend to do everything I can to protect local families.

Under the proposed deal announced yesterday by Governor Paterson and state Senate leaders, hydropower currently allocated to residential customers of Rochester Gas and Electric (RG&E), New York State Electric and Gas (NYSEG) and National Grid will be diverted to reduce energy bills for businesses and agencies participating in Power For Jobs throughout the state.

The current "Rural and Domestic" energy program benefits over 5 million Upstaters, including all residential customers of RG&E, NYSEG, and National Grid through the purchase of cheaper hydropower. This proposed shift would result in an increase of approximately $80-125 per year on the bill of the average RG&E residential customer.

 

Last year's state budget, which I opposed, included new energy taxes and fees that added over $600 million to our utility bills. We should take no action that further burdens families and businesses in a part of the state already experiencing hard economic times.

It is also important to note that years ago Upstate utility companies and their customers were responsible for the purchase of the hydropower and the debt associated with the construction of the Massena and Niagara Falls generation facilities. Now, when fuel costs have made hydroelectric power more attractive, state leaders are trying to take this benefit from Upstaters who paid their dues.

Without question Power For Jobs should go forward, but not solely on the backs of our residents and ratepayers.