Griffo Wants Central and Upstate Voices Heard in Draft Energy Plan

New York State Senator Joseph A. Griffo is urging residents to take part in shaping the state’s energy future by providing feedback on the 2025 Draft Energy Plan. The plan, released by the State Energy Planning Board, outlines long-term strategies and policy recommendations that will guide energy decisions in New York through 2040.

“This is an important opportunity for New Yorkers to help shape the state’s energy future,” Griffo said. “Public feedback is essential to developing a balanced approach that reflects the needs and priorities of our communities. I hope that residents across New York will express their thoughts and make their voices heard.”

The draft plan is available at energyplan.ny.gov, where written comments can be submitted until October 6, 2025. Feedback may also be emailed to [email protected] (with “comment” in the subject line) or mailed directly to NYSERDA at 17 Columbia Circle, Albany, NY 12203-6399.

Along with written comments, both virtual and in-person public hearings are scheduled across the state this month in Buffalo, Rochester, Albany, Poughkeepsie, Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Long Island. Details on times and participation options are posted on the Energy Plan website.

While applauding the availability of hearings, Sen. Griffo has formally requested that additional sessions be added in Central New York, the Mohawk Valley, the North Country, and the Southern Tier. In a letter to Gov. Kathy Hochul and Doreen Harris, President and CEO of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), Griffo stressed the importance of including these regions.

“The residents of Central New York, the Mohawk Valley, the Southern Tier and the North Country face significant challenges due to rising energy costs,” Griffo wrote. “They deserve to have the same opportunities to express themselves as others across the state.”

Griffo emphasized that the hearings should provide a fair chance for all New Yorkers to weigh in on how the state can balance energy reliability, affordability, and sustainability while planning for future demand.

The Final State Energy Plan will be crafted using the input gathered, setting the tone for energy-related program development and long-term policy direction.

For New Yorkers concerned about rising costs, renewable energy goals, or regional equity in decision-making, this public comment period is a chance to directly influence the policies that will impact households and businesses for decades to come.