Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele, Jr. (I-Sag Harbor) today announced that legislation sponsored with Senator Todd Kaminsky (D-Long Beach) to authorize the development of Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) programs in Long Island Power Authority’s (LIPA) service territory has received Governor Kathy Hochul’s signature.

CCA programs allow local communities and their residents to pool resources when purchasing energy, thereby expanding access to significantly enhanced alternative options and autonomy over their sources of energy and energy mix.

In 2016, the Public Service Commission (PSC) authorized CCA programs statewide. However, the initial order failed to consider the complexities of LIPA’s service territory and rate structure, barring Long Islanders from accessing the benefits of CCAs. The legislation signed today has laid a path for and expedites the establishment of CCAs in Long Island towns and communities.

Statewide, more than 60 municipalities already participate in CCA programs, of which more than half are powered by 100% renewable energy. CCAs are proven to be vital as New York State pursues its ambitious climate goals.

“Long Island plays an undeniable role in New York State’s energy and climate future,” said Assemblyman Fred Thiele. “With this bill now officially signed into law, our towns can finally join the rest of the state in pursuing greener and cheaper energy alternatives. I’m grateful for my partnership with Senator Kaminsky and the Governor signing this measure into law.”