NY S06484

Establishes a small business energy assistance and advocacy services program within the Division of Small Business under Empire State Development Corporation

Requires the program to solicit input from small businesses on energy needs, provide recommendations to NYSERDA, NYPA, utilities, and the Public Service Commission on energy assistance programs and policy impacts

Mandates quarterly educational forums in each utility service territory to inform small business owners about lowering energy costs, energy efficiency, distributed generation, and the regulatory process

Authorizes the program to accept and investigate complaints from small business customers, including those served by the Long Island Power Authority, and mediate disputes or refer them to appropriate agencies

Grants the Division of Small Business authority to initiate, intervene in, or participate in proceedings before the Public Service Commission and advocate before state and federal regulatory agencies for equitable treatment of small businesses in energy-related matters

Requires annual reporting to the governor and legislature by March 15th on program actions and recommendations for improving energy affordability and efficiency for small businesses