RAY BROOK -- Construction and development in the Adirondack Park might eventually include energy conservation review.

New policy is being written to ensure the Adirondack Park Agency integrates "energy supply, conservation and efficiency" into the application process.

It follows two state executive orders issued this year, requiring a State Energy Plan by March 31, 2009, and every state agency to create a sustainability and stewardship program.

Commissioners took a second look at a draft version of the measure Thursday, with final approval likely next month.

"The policy is intended to protect Adirondack Park resources while recognizing that energy conservation and efficiency is critical to viable, sustainable human communities within the Park and in a global context," the draft says.

The policy also addresses energy-efficiency measures at APA facilities, in its vehicle fleet and operations.

Regulatory Affairs Director Mark Sengenberger told commissioners energy conservation brings an education piece to the planning table.

APA is already tackling affordable housing, climate-change impacts, travel-corridor management where power lines run, and state acquisition and easements.

"It is cheaper to conserve than build new energy supplies," Sengenberger said.

Electric companies are looking to replace the power-line infrastructure, which is 40 to 70 years old, in the park.

Educating new builders on energy conservation will also help support a statewide initiative to reduce electricity usage by 15 percent by the year 2015.

Adirondack energy policy would provide guidance more than add conditions, though larger developments could be monitored more closely in the plan.

"For large-scale subdivision projects," it says, "especially for those targeting second home development, the Agency shall include appropriate energy-related conditions and findings in permits to assure that the projects exceed the minimum requirements of the Energy Conservation Construction Code of New York State.'"

The clause drew concern from some commissioners.

"Could (energy policy) ever lead to denial solely on the basis (a project) does not conform?" asked Commissioner Frank Mezzano.