Ceretto calls for conservation incentive program to remain in Niagara County

Assemblyman John Ceretto, R-I-Lewiston, today called on the New York State Public Service Commission to reject efforts to disband the National Fuel conservation incentive program in Niagara County.

Ceretto noted the CIP provides low-income home weatherization, residential and commercial customer appliance rebates, and outreach and education about the benefits of conservation. The City of Niagara Falls and the towns of Lewiston, Niagara and Wheatfield fall into the 11-county service territory.

"CIP is a needed program in an area that has been hit hard by recent economic troubles and rising utility costs," said Ceretto. "Any attempts to remove this worthy program should be met with strong and united opposition from residents and officials in Niagara Falls and across the county."

The PSC approved year one of the CIP in 2007. Since then, partnering organizations, including the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), have administered the $10 million-a-year conservation incentive program, which is designed to conserve energy and reduce participating customer bills. The PSC renewed the CIP for a fourth year, beginning Dec. 1, 2010.

"Niagara Falls and its surrounding towns should not be pitted against other cities in the region. The CIP works, and the benefits should continue right here for those who need it. We cannot stand idly by while our friends and neighbors are harmed by calls to change this program. The program works, and we need it," said Ceretto.