A climate advocacy group is warning New Yorkers could face higher energy costs if the state continues relying on fossil fuels.
Public Power NY criticized Gov. Kathy Hochul’s energy strategy Thursday, arguing the state should invest more heavily in publicly owned renewable power.
The group said global tensions, including conflict involving Iran and disruptions to natural gas exports, could worsen energy affordability for New York residents.
Advocates are urging the state to expand renewable energy development through the New York Power Authority. The group is calling for the authority to build 15 gigawatts of publicly owned renewable energy to meet state climate targets and reduce energy costs.
Public Power NY also called on state leaders to include $200 million for public renewables in the state budget.
“The numbers that need to change are New Yorkers’ energy bills, not the science-driven mandates of the state’s climate law,” said Alex Patterson, campaign coordinator for Public Power NY.
State lawmakers are continuing negotiations over the state budget as debates continue over energy policy and climate goals.
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