NY A07958

Establishes the "New York Grid Modernization Act" to modernize the state's electric grid infrastructure and transmission system through a ten-year program addressing congestion, reliability, and weather-related outages.

Creates a Smart Grid Advisory Council with seven voting members appointed by the governor, senate president, and assembly speaker to advise the Public Service Commission on feasibility of statewide smart grid deployment within six months.

Requires the Public Service Commission to issue a grid modernization order within two years that mandates transmission and distribution companies invest in high-voltage transmission upgrades, distribution system improvements, smart grid technology, workforce development programs, and energy assistance for low-income customers.

Caps rate increases from grid modernization investments at 2.5 percent for customers; allows customers to opt out of advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) devices at no penalty, fee, or service charge.

Requires utilities with annual revenues exceeding $200 million to maintain in-state training facilities, create tuition assistance funds, and hire only certified technicians for specified skilled positions by an effective date one year after enactment.