Energy Update – May 2026
This month’s edition examines how ongoing global energy disruptions continue to shape New York’s electricity and natural gas markets, especially as we head into peak summer demand. We also break down key changes in the newly enacted State Budget, including updates to the CLCPA and new initiatives affecting energy affordability and municipal programs.
We also cover new state funding for clean energy upgrades in schools, recent data on how New York’s electricity usage compares nationwide, highlights from a busy month of conferences across the state, and our newest Member Spotlight on Ulster County!
New State Budget Revises CLCPA Targets and Timelines
After a prolonged delay, New York State has enacted its latest budget, including several notable changes to energy and climate policy. Updates to the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA) adjust emissions accounting methods, revise planning timelines, and introduce new regulatory considerations, including a greater emphasis on affordability and economic impacts.
The budget also includes additional funding for clean energy programs, new tools to address energy affordability, and expanded incentives for municipal initiatives such as electric vehicle adoption.
Member Spotlight: Ulster County
This month’s Member Spotlight features Ulster County, a county in the Hudson Valley known for its mountain landscapes, riverfront communities, and year‑round outdoor recreation. From the trails of the Catskills and Shawangunk Mountains to historic locations like Kingston and New Paltz, Ulster County offers a wide range of experiences shaped by both its natural setting and its communities. Discover what makes Ulster County a distinctive part of the Hudson Valley.
Energy Update – April 2026
MEGA’s April Energy Update explores how global geopolitical events are affecting New York’s energy markets, with a focus on price volatility, reliability risks heading into summer, and what these trends mean for MEGA members. This edition also includes timely energy insights, where we have been this month, and a Member Spotlight on a founding MEGA member: Tompkins County!
Member Spotlight: Tompkins County
This month’s Member Spotlight features Tompkins County, a founding MEGA member known for its scenic gorges, vibrant communities, and strong cultural presence in the Finger Lakes. From the waterfalls and trails of its state parks to life along Cayuga Lake and in downtown Ithaca, Tompkins County offers experiences that continue to shape the region. Learn more about the places and people that make Tompkins County a unique MEGA member.
Energy Update – March 2026
This month’s edition takes a closer look at how global events are impacting New York’s energy markets, along with what continued market volatility could mean for public entities planning ahead. We also share important MEGA updates, including the launch of our Additional Services page and details on the 2026 Member Scholarship. You’ll also find highlights from recent events, our latest Member Spotlight, and other helpful resources you may have missed!
State Experts Detail Push to Meet Growing Energy Needs
New York’s electricity demand is rising just as its power plants grow older, creating mounting challenges for grid reliability and energy costs. State energy experts and local government officials weighed in on what lies ahead, and the tough policy choices facing lawmakers.
Member Spotlight: Schuyler County
This month’s Member Spotlight features Schuyler County, located in the southern part of the Finger Lakes and known for its iconic waterfalls, lakeside views, and outdoor recreation. From the famous gorge trail at Watkins State Parks to the lively village of Watkins Glen, the county offers a variety of experiences that draw visitors year-round. Discover what makes Schuyler County a unique MEGA member.
MEGA Webinar – New York Electric Market Update
Thursday, March 26th, 2026 Free Registration 10 AM - 11 AM Join us for our next New York Electric Market Update as we break down the significant electric price volatility experienced in late January and early February, driven by an extreme deep...
2026 MEGA Member Scholarship
The Municipal Electric and Gas Alliance (MEGA) is pleased to offer up to three scholarships of $3,000 each for current high school seniors that reside in a member municipality/school district.
Energy Update – February 2026
Get the latest insights on New York’s early spring energy outlook, NYISO’s analysis of rising electricity prices, NACo’s new guide on national electric infrastructure, and this month’s MEGA updates, including our Member Spotlight on Hamilton County.
What NYISO’s White Paper Reveals About Rising Electricity Prices
The New York Independent System Operator (NYISO)’s latest white paper sheds light on why electricity prices have been climbing and what is contributing to its volatility.
Among some of the major takeaways:
1. Natural gas continues to be a primary source for electricity production, so swings in natural‑gas prices continue to directly influence electricity costs
2. Commodity pricing is driven by supply and demand. Electricity demand is rising faster than new generation is being built, as older plants retire and many new projects face delays, tightening the overall supply
3. Global conflicts and demand for liquified natural gas are lowering our supply and increasing the price of both natural gas and electricity