New York Asks If ESCOs Should Pay Annual Fee, Whether Eligibility Requirements Should Be Changed

As part of its further investigation into the retail energy markets, the New York PSC has asked for comment on ESCO eligibility requirements, and whether an annual fee should be imposed on ESCOs.

"We have not revisited the ESCO eligibility requirements for several years. Our research indicates that several states, including Maryland and Connecticut, assess a licensing fee for new ESCOs. Others, including New Jersey, require an annual fee from ESCOs. Further, most states have fewer ESCOs than in New York. We invite comment on changes to eligibility requirements that are consistent with our efforts to encourage energy-related value-added services as well as compliance with our UBP," the PSC said.

Specifically, the PSC asked:

• Consistent with the Commission's efforts to encourage energy-related value-added services as well as compliance with the UBP, what changes to ESCO eligibility requirements should the Commission consider?

• Consistent with efforts to encourage ESCO compliance with the UBP and other Commission rules, what changes to ESCO eligibility requirements should be considered? For example, should the Commission consider requiring ESCOs to pay application or annual fees?

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Case 12-M-0476