Our Purpose & Responsibility

The core purpose and responsibilities of the NYISO include:

  • RELIABILITY — Managing the efficient flow of power on nearly 10,900 miles of high-voltage transmission lines — from more than 500 generating units — on a minute-to-minute basis, 24 hours-a-day, seven days-a-week.
  • MARKETS — Administering and monitoring New York’s wholesale electricity markets totaling $11 billion in 2008, involving over 400 market participants in daily and hourly auctions that match the buyers and sellers of power.
  • PLANNING — Conducting long-term assessments of New York State’s electricity resources and needs, evaluating the feasibility of projects proposed to meet those needs, and providing information and analysis to policy makers on energy issues.
  • TECHNOLOGY — Developing and deploying state-of-the-art technology to sustain and enhance the performance and efficiency of the power grid and electricity markets serving New York State.

Our Purpose