CITIZEN POWER ALLIANCE

It's no secret that New York has a reputation for being a formidable foe in the regulatory ring. And while oversight is a necessary function of government, too much can be cumbersome.

The latest example is playing out in the acquisition of Energy East by Spanish energy conglomerate Iberdrola. Despite securing all necessary approvals in New Hampshire, Connecticut and Maine, New York continues to impose additional conditions.

As a result, Iberdrola's chairman said last week at its annual shareholder meeting that the company may end up reconsidering the purchase. That would be unfortunate, considering what seem like numerous benefits the wind energy powerhouse could bring to the table.

Meanwhile, the back and forth between Iberdrola and the Public Service Commission staff is beginning to raise eyebrows locally.

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