About DPS and PSC
The New York State Department of Public Service has a broad mandate to ensure access to safe, reliable utility service at just and reasonable rates. The Department is the staff arm of the Public Service Commission.
The New York State Public Service Commission was established under State Public Service Law, Article 1, Section 4, and is responsible for regulating the state's electric, gas, steam, telecommunications, and water utilities, and overseeing the cable industry. The Commission is charged by law with setting rates and ensuring New York's utilities provide adequate service. In addition, the Commission exercises jurisdiction over the siting of major gas and electric transmission facilities and has responsibility for ensuring the safety of natural gas and liquid petroleum pipelines.
Mission
The primary mission of the New York State Department of Public Service is to ensure affordable, safe, secure, and reliable access to electric, gas, steam, telecommunications, and water services for New York State’s residential and business consumers, at just and reasonable rates, while protecting the natural environment. The Department also seeks to stimulate effective competitive markets for clean, renewable, and distributed energy resources that benefit New York consumers, as well as product and service innovations.
Public Service Commission
The Commission consists of up to seven members who are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate for a term of six years on a full-time basis or to complete an unexpired term of a former Commissioner. PSC Commissioner salaries are set by the NYS Commission on Compensation (nyscommissiononcompensation.org). At least one commissioner shall have experience in utility consumer advocacy. Commissioners appointed after July 1, 2022, shall have education and training, and three or more years of experience in one or more of the following fields: economics, engineering, law, accounting, business management, utility regulation, public policy, consumer advocacy or environmental management. The PSC meets monthly in Albany in the Empire State Plaza, Building 3, 19th floor conference room, and occasionally in the New York City office at 90 Church Street.
Regulated Utilities
Contact DPS Want to Learn More?
Contact DPS through our main phone numbers and hotlines, or view our phone directory for executive staff and directors.