NYISO, the New York Independent System Operator is the organization responsible for managing New York’s electric grid and its competitive wholesale electric marketplace. NYISO, Con Edison and others established Demand Response programs, which are designed to help ensure that the electric grid remains stable by reducing electric demand and usage during peak periods.
NYISO says that it offers programs to customers to reduce electricity usage when demand on the network is highest. It says the Demand Response programs help avoid overload, reduce emissions, and avoid expensive equipment upgrades. Large energy users can participate in a demand response program and receive payments for reducing the use of electricity from the grid during periods of highest electricity demand. These periods of extreme energy use usually occur on the hottest days in the summer.
Westchester County has been participating in the NYISO and Con Edison Demand Response programs with NuEnergen company Environmental Energy Solutions based in White Plains and now has received a payment of $212,715.54 from the programs. The county’s Demand Response provider NuEnergen presented a ceremonial check, reflecting payments earned for remaining on standby to reduce energy usage when the New York State energy grid is at risk of overload.
Demand Response programs are credited with preventing blackouts and mitigating the need for new carbon intensive power plant construction.
Last year, Westchester County earned $31,196.62 during the winter season and $181,518.95 over the summer. By reducing power consumption during critical periods, the county not only generates significant revenue but also contributes to environmental preservation by curbing greenhouse gas emissions, lowering the overall strain on the grid, and minimizing brownouts and blackouts.
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said, “This initiative provides direct financial benefits that can be reinvested into the community and reinforces our commitment to reducing emissions and promoting grid stability. We are proud to partner with NuEnergen as our demand response provider and to continue taking steps that benefit both the environment and our constituents.”
Director of Energy Conservation and Sustainability for Westchester County Peter L. McCartt explained, “By strategically reducing energy consumption during periods of high demand, we are helping stabilize the grid, contributing to dirty emissions reductions, and improving air quality. This program exemplifies how local governments can drive impactful change, proving that sustainability efforts can generate environmental and economic rewards for our community.”
