ACE NY Supports S.2935B (Parker) MEMORANDUM OF SUPPORT FOR THE JUST ENERGY TRANSITION ACT (S.2935B)
MEMORANDUM IN SUPPORT OF S.2935-A (Parker)
April 2023
The Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY) supports S.2935 and urges its immediate passage. This bill would direct state agencies to develop a study of competitive options to facilitate the replacement and redevelopment of New York State’s fossil fuel facilities and their sites by 2030, with the Public Service Commission issuing a proceeding to carry out the implementation of these strategies. It would also require the establishment of a competitive program to bolster private investment in eligible technologies to replace the generation being phased out.
Currently, New York State, especially downstate, is reliant on fossil fuel energy generation. To reach the goals of the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA), which require that 70% of electricity statewide come from renewable sources by 2030, we need to phase out fossil fuels and build renewable generation facilities. While embarking on this transition, it is essential to have a plan in place to ensure reliability and set timelines for the phase out of fossil fuel generating plants.
These fossil fuel plants, especially ones which New Yorkers rely on in times of above-average energy demand, create a significant amount of air pollution and health issues, with a disproportionate effect on low-income and minority communities. The replacement of these facilities with cleaner alternatives would also provide potential for economic development, job creation, and just transition opportunities benefitting the New York workforce.
The bill also contains specific provisions for outreach to disadvantaged communities, including two public hearings. The bill requires the plan to be revised based on the public comment and outreach. It is important that the redevelopment of properties and generating facilities reflect the concerns of the surrounding community.
The creation of a new competitive program to redevelop these fossil fuel generation facilities with cleaner electricity production alternatives is essential to ensuring the reliability of electricity for New Yorkers. It will also spur huge amounts of investment in New York, providing economic benefits and creating new clean energy jobs. The passage of this bill will send a message to the state and the renewable energy industry that New York continues to be serious about creating opportunities for investments in renewables and reaching its ambitious climate targets.
For the above reasons, the Alliance for Clean Energy New York supports this legislation. For more information contact Deb Peck Kelleher, Deputy Director, at (c) 518-698-3211. All of ACE NY’s memos on legislation are available at https://www.aceny.org/legislative-actions.
April 2023
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