September 22, 2004

Statement of Anne Reynolds, Air and Energy Project Director, Environmental Advocates of New York On the Public Service Commission’s Order Regarding a Retail Renewable Portfolio Standard

(Albany, NY) — “Today’s decision will change New York’s energy landscape — bringing new wind energy projects to Upstate New York, and more solar and fuel cell projects around the state. It will make New York more secure, more protected from natural gas price spikes, and healthier — avoiding literally tons of the pollution that causes acid rain and smog.

There are compelling reasons for New York to make this move. Thirty counties in New York fail air quality standards, and the costs of relying on imported fuels are obvious. Most important, New York is beginning to take responsibility for our fair share of the pollution that causes global warming, greenhouse gases.

Environmental Advocates is disappointed that today’s decision does not fully implement the Governor’s 25% promise. We know that a 24% standard is, in fact, a 15% reduction in the amount of new green energy plants to be built in New York, and in the hoped-for health and air quality benefits. We’ll keep fighting for that level of improvement and for healthy air for all New Yorkers.

Today’s Commission decision is a great step forward for New York, as we join thirteen other states in putting a renewable energy standard on the books. We are satisfied that the Order excludes trash burning from the program and, overall, we welcome this new beginning to NY's clean energy future.”