New York PSC Adopts Uniform Framework For Access To Energy, Utility Data

The New York State Public Service Commission today adopted a new framework regarding energy and utility customer (and other) data access

A written order was not issued as of publication time. While a general overview was provided during the PSC's meeting and in a news release, specifics concerning the requirements adopted under the order were not discussed.

The PSC said that the framework will, "clearly define the process for data access and standardizes the necessary privacy, cybersecurity, and quality requirements for access to energy-related data in a way that ensures uniform treatment across various energy-related data use cases."

"The framework adopts a risk-based approach and will serve as a single source for statewide data access requirements, no longer perpetuating the need for each utility to take on a repetitive function that can be centralized to the benefit of ratepayers. The framework provides uniform and consistent guidance on the availability of, and what is needed for access to, energy-related data," the PSC said

In particular, the adopted framework will establish a certification process for Energy Service Entities (ESEs) that seek such data.

The PSC will implement a "data ready" certification process to ensure that an ESE has implemented privacy and cybersecurity requirements established under the framework.

The framework incorporates policies from the PSC's prior cybersecurity order, and is said to establish requirements commensurate with the risk of the specific data being shared

As previously reported, the PSC has already ordered the creation of an integrated energy data resource (IEDR) to provide a centralized platform for collecting, integrating, managing, and accessing customer and system data from New York State’s energy utilities.

Case 20-M-0082