Recently, NYS has admitted that its unreachable energy goals are unreachable (see “CES Biennial Review Report” 07/01/2024). This lead to the expected calls from anti nuclear green NGOs for NYPA to speed up its implementation of the BPRA to meet the renewable energy “shortfall.” NYPA seems to be feeling this pressure, as they have reached out to their conferral participants, of which NYEA is one (pg. 19), on feedback on the process thus far. The questions posed, and our response, is listed below.
- Please share your thoughts on the State’s progress toward CLCPA goals.
- Please share your thoughts on how NYPA can or should support CLCPA.
- Please share your thoughts on what NYPA is already doing to support CLCPA.
- Do you have anything else you would like to share for the record?
Thank you for reaching out to us for our opinion on this matter. Our answer to the stated questions is informed by the recent interview given by your VP of Renewable Project Development and the recent PSC report that states NY’s CLCPA 2030 renewable goal will not be met. This announcement has spurred many to call on NYPA to use its new authority from the BPRA to fill this gap.
We at NYEA feel that NYPA is moving at a correct pace, and that no pace is possible to reach a goal that was from the beginning unrealistic. NYPA has set a timeline and is working to understand the best way for it to use its unique advantages to produce renewable energy in New York while being mindful of public perception. From our first conversation with NYPA, we feel NYPA does not want to ram rod development through localities that do not want it, and its process thus far is indicative of that. As stated in the above mentioned interview, the BPRA does not force NYPA to step in if the 2030 goals are declared unreachable, as the bills most ardent supports try to characterize. To even attempt to do so will cause the public relations nightmare NYPA has wanted to avoid from day one.
Also, it should be made clear, NYPA does not own any renewable manufacturing capacity. It is affected by the same supply chain delays and cost overruns as any other developer. NYPA cannot magically make a turbine or panel appear, there absence a core reason for the delays.
NYEA maintains the same position that NYPA should look to re-enter nuclear generation, especially looking forward to the CLCPA 2040 goals. NYPA seems very willing to enter public-private partnerships, maybe one avenue could be partnering with NY’s last nuclear operator, Constellation, on a joint project.
With this most recent announcement, we believe the State should re-assess it goals and set ones that are achievable and serve the actual interests of New Yorkers: reliable, cheap, abundant electricity for all New Yorkers. As for NYPA, it should stay the course it is on until such time more sensible heads prevail. NYPA cannot perform miracles, it is too busy delivering electrons.