NY A00556

Establishes "refuge facilities" in New York municipalities and school districts that can provide shelter and continuous electric and heat services during emergencies using on-site cogeneration technology independent of the main utility grid.

Requires every county (except NYC) and NYC to identify and register refuge facilities within their disaster preparedness plans, with annual registry updates provided to the state emergency management office.

Exempts registered refuge facilities from utility standby rates, exit fees, lost revenue charges, and unreasonable interconnection fees when they install cogeneration equipment with at least 60 percent overall system efficiency.

Authorizes state authorities (including the Energy Research and Development Authority) to provide financial assistance through grants, low-interest loans, and performance contracts for cogeneration equipment installation, with repayment over up to ten years from energy cost savings.

Directs the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority to assess feasibility, costs, and benefits of renewable and cogeneration technologies for refuge facilities and report findings to the legislature within six months of enactment.