Plan to make LIPA fully public utility charges forward
Proponents of the plan say Long Islanders would have control over LIPA instead of how it is now where the power lies in Albany.
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There could be a change in who has power over Long Island's electric grid.
A state commission voted Friday to accept a plan to make LIPA a fully public utility.
If the plan is approved, it would do away with PSEG Long Island. LIPA would take over management of the electric grid.
The LIPA board would be restructured. It currently consists of nine members, five appointed by the governor, two appointed by the state Assembly and two appointed by the state Senate.
Under the new configuration, there would be 13 members. Two from the governor, two from each the state Senate and Assembly, two appointed by Nassau County officials and two appointed by Suffolk County officials. New York City, a 26-member group of stakeholders and a labor union would each get one member.
The plan is expected to save LIPA an estimated $80 million per year.
The plan needs approval of the state assembly, the state Senate and the governor to move forward.
If it passes, LIPA will take control of the electric grid Jan. 1, 2026, one day after PSEG Long Island's contract ends.
PSEG Long Island did not comment on Friday's decision. The company has previously expressed opposition to making LIPA a public utility.
