Climate Feasibility Study (S.2352-A/A.2720-A) | 2019

February 26th, 2019

Directs the state energy planning board to conduct a study of the technical and economic feasibility of a one hundred percent renewable energy system

A.2720-A(Cusick) S.2352-A (Parker)

 MEMORANDUM IN SUPPORT

Unshackle Upstate, a non-partisan, pro-taxpayer, pro-economic growth, education and advocacy coalition made up of business and trade organizations from all parts of Upstate New York supports this legislation.

If enacted, this bill would direct the State energy planning board to conduct a study of the technical and economic feasibility of a meeting a one hundred percent renewable energy standard. The study will consider the costs and feasibility of this standard and consider the costs to New York businesses, residents and consumers.

Increasing New York’s use of renewable energy and reducing carbon emissions are worthwhile objectives. We must consider, however, the impact these efforts will have on New York’s fragile business climate, particularly Upstate.

Legislative efforts seeking to mandate the elimination of greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 do so with out fully understanding whether the technology exists to achieve that objective. Further, this proposal is moving forward without consideration of the fiscal impact it will have on the state’s economy or individual ratepayers.

The proposed study will give us a better understanding of the renewable technology available and allow us to make decisions that support a cleaner environment without imposing additional burdens to economic growth. We encourage the state to engage with employer and taxpayer organizations as part of these efforts.

For these reasons, Unshackle Upstate supports the enactment of this legislation.