The announcement by utility PSEG-LI to raise customers’ electric bills next month underscores the importance of modernizing Long Island’s energy supply to produce more affordable electricity and secure the power grid, said Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele, Jr. in a statement issued today:

“During Governor Cuomo’s recent trip to Long Island, he mentioned several worthwhile and forward-thinking projects that will help improve the regional economy. He also referred to the six 100 year storms that have battered Long Island in recent memory, citing them as one of the reasons he led efforts to restructure the Long Island Power Authority and tap PSEG-LI to run our electric utility operations.

“Unfortunately, PSEG-LI has failed to take meaningful action to curb LIPA’s growing debt and improve Long Island’s electric generation fleet by refusing to support on-island projects that would generate cheaper, cleaner energy compared to existing power plants that are old, inefficient, and vulnerable to storm surge. Such development would also create hundreds of good-paying jobs, stimulate significant private investment, and boost tax revenue for our local communities.

“As it stands, ratepayers will continue to import expensive power from out-of-state plants, including those owned and operated by PSEG. To ensure that the interests of Long Island families and businesses come first, Governor Cuomo must act in support of efforts to reform our energy infrastructure.”