Report Identifies Benefits of Pipelines to New York State

June 12th, 2018

Last week, the Consumer Energy Alliance (CEA) released a report that examines the benefits of pipelines, specifically highlighting the need for affordable energy supplies for the state’s families and businesses.

The report, Pipelines and their Benefits to New York, examines the benefits of pipelines, and the availability of fuels like natural gas. The report finds that New Yorkers pay 44 percent more for electricity than the national average. It also finds that natural gas provides almost 46 percent of the state’s electricity needs – a number that is expected to increase to 56 percent. And as the report finds, there is a significant economic impact to New York from the numerous denied, delayed and proposed pipeline projects in the state.

Natural gas is critical to the Upstate economy. Energy demand continues to grow, and is essential to power economic growth. Natural gas is used to heat about 60 percent of homes in the state, and is more energy and cost-efficient and lower-emitting than other fuels, such as oil, propane, kerosene or wood.

It’s clear that New York’s current transportation infrastructure (pipelines) does not fully meet the needs of our existing and potential large volume end-users, and that Upstate communities are not getting the benefits of the natural gas revolution. Without reliable and affordable energy options, New York State simply cannot compete in a global economy. Adequate energy infrastructure is necessary to attract and retain businesses in the state.