Advocates push New York to fund Empower+ for energy aid

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — Advocates and assemblymembers gathered in Albany on Thursday to urge the state to fully fund the Empower+ program, an energy affordability initiative.

Empower+ provides insulation and heating system electrification, lowering energy bills and reducing statewide energy demand. Officials said the state plans to cut funding despite its success.

Advocates argue funding cuts contradict the state’s affordability goals and harms vulnerable communities.

“Affordability is a major issue people are facing; energy costs are going up,” Albany County Legislator Sam Fein said. “And if we can save people on their electric bills, reduce emissions, and help us reach our statewide goals — climate goals — that has to be a priority for us. So I’m joining in to urge the state to fund this program, so we can continue to help people throughout New York State.”

Advocates said the program is the state’s best way to ensure energy affordability.

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