/ The Alliance for Clean Energy New York News en-us Copyright 2008 ACENY / Fri, 05 Dec 2008 05:40:20 EST ACE NY JOINS ADVISORY GROUP DEVELOPING NY’S RGGI OPERATING PLAN FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 24, 2008 CONTACT: Carol E. Murphy, 518-432-1405 David Nachtweih, 646-789-7685 ACE NY JOINS ADVISORY GROUP DEVELOPING NY’S RGGI OPERATING PLAN As State Prepares to Invest Proceeds From Carbon Auctions, ACE NY Called on for its Expertise on Clean Energy Programs (ALBANY, NY- November 24) – The Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY), New York’s leading advocate for the rapid adoption of renewable energy generation and energy conservation, announced today it will join the Advisory Group for the New York’s implementation of the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), at the invitation of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA). “We’re honored to join the Advisory Group and look forward to working closely with NYSERDA to find the best ways to invest revenues from its carbon auctions,” said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of ACE NY. “For our cap and trade system to have the type of impact we want, it not only must cut carbon emissions at power plants, but must also help us invest in clean energy technologies that allow us use energy more efficiently and to generate power more sustainably.” As a member of the Advisory Group, ACE NY will provide input and guidance to NYSERDA as it determines how to best invest proceeds from the carbon auctions. ACE NY also will assist in developing the process for measuring, verifying and evaluating the impact and success of these programs; outlining an anticipated schedule for implementation; and determining NYSERDA’s estimated cost for administrating and evaluating the programs. ACE NY will serve a three-year term on the advisory group. The Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) was developed by ten Northeastern and Mid-Atlantic States to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from power plants and is the first mandatory cap and trade system carbon emissions in the U.S. As part of the agreement, all ten RGGI states have committed to cap and then reduce the amount of carbon dioxide that certain power plants are allowed to emit, limiting the region’s total contribution to atmospheric greenhouse gas levels. Participating states have agreed to implement RGGI through a regional cap-and-trade program using uniform quarterly auctions to sell nearly the entire annual regional emissions budget of approximately 188 million allowances per year. The next regional carbon auction under RGGI will be held on December 17, 2008. In this auction NYSERDA will make 12,422,161 vintage 2009 New York allowances available for purchase. Currently, Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, and Vermont have signed on. About the Alliance for Clean Energy New York The Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY) is a broad coalition dedicated to promoting clean energy, energy efficiency, a healthy environment, and a strong economy for the Empire State, and is New York’s premier advocate for the rapid adoption of renewable energy generation and energy conservation. ### /news.cfm/id/73718 Creative Voice Development Group Mon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST Statement from the Alliance for Clean Energy New York on Attorney General Andrew Cuomo’s new Wind Industry Ethics Code FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 10/30/2008 CONTACT: Carol E. Murphy, 518-432-1405 “We commend Attorney General Cuomo on the creation of the Wind Industry Ethics Code,” said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY), the State’s foremost clean energy advocate representing a broad coalition of clean energy companies and environmental organizations. “We believe these are reasonable requirements that should be extended beyond wind energy companies. They should be applied to all companies engaged in significant projects necessitating municipal permits. For years, ACE NY member companies have found constructive and beneficial ways to work in partnership with local governments while constructing wind energy projects. This code finally eliminates any confusion and establishes a clear code of conduct for local communities and developers alike.” /news.cfm/id/73056 Creative Voice Development Group Thu, 30 Oct 2008 00:00:00 EST STATE ENERGY LEADERS AND ADVOCATES GATHER TO DISCUSS BUILDING NEW YORK’S GREEN ENERGY ECONOMY FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 10/22/08 CONTACT: Carol E. Murphy, 518-432-1405 David Nachtweih, 646-789-7685 Alliance For Clean Energy New York Presents Public Policy Leadership Awards to Senator George Maziarz and Assemblyman Kevin Cahill (ALBANY, NY- October 22) – Building on New York’s achievements in promoting clean power sources, the Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY) held a two-day conference to discuss the continuing development of New York’s Green Energy Economy. "We have an excellent opportunity to develop a Green Economy that will place us at the forefront of environmental and green energy technology and innovations," said Carol Murphy, ACE NY Executive Director. "Especially in this time of fiscal constraints, the pursuit of clean energy options can provide both short term and long term economic benefits as well as protecting the planet for future generations." The conference, hosted in Albany from October 21-22, featured a keynote address by the Associate Deputy Minister for Energy of the Government of Quebec, Daniel Bienvenue, on the challenge of moving away from carbon, and a luncheon speech by Steve Whitley, President and CEO of the New York Independent System Operator, which manages New York’s electric grid and energy markets. The conference also included presentations by NYS Deputy Secretary of Energy Paul DeCotis, New York City Economic Development Corporation’s Senior Vice President Jim Gallagher, and ACE NY Executive Director Carol Murphy. During the conference, ACE NY also recognized Energy Chairmen, New York State Senator George Maziarz and New York Assemblyman Kevin Cahill with individual Public Policy Leadership Awards for their work on green energy issues, including the passage of an expanded net metering law, in the Legislature. They both were presented with awards made from recycled, emerald green glass. "As we work together with our local, state and regional partners to develop New York’s Green Economy, it’s important we recognize the critical role our legislators play in the process," Bruce Bailey, ACE NY Board Chairman and President and CEO of AWS Truewind, said. "The efforts of Assemblyman Cahill and Senator Maziarz this past year resulted in all New Yorkers now having the ability to truly take advantage of green energy options for their homes and businesses." "New York has a clear opportunity to be a regional and national leader by developing a robust Green Economy," Senator George Maziarz said. "I’m honored to accept this award from ACE NY, an organization that’s been at the forefront of the clean energy movement, and I’m committed to making sure we take advantage of our opportunities here in New York." "New York's continued commitment to advancing the research, development and application of clean, renewable energy technologies is critical to the future of our environment and our economic security," said Assemblyman Kevin Cahill. "The resources and expertise provided by ACE and its individual members have been very valuable in our efforts to advance green solutions to our energy challenges." The conference was ACE NY’s second annual, and the organization continues to be the leader in advocacy efforts to develop energy efficiency and clean, renewable energy sources for the State of New York. ### /news.cfm/id/72738 Creative Voice Development Group Wed, 22 Oct 2008 00:00:00 EST The Adirondack Council * Alliance for Clean Energy New York * Citizens Campaign for the Environment * Environmental Advocates of New York * Environmental Defense Fund * Hudson River Sloop Clearwater * Natural Resources Defense Council * NYPIRG * Pace Energy and Climate Center * Sierra Club – Atlantic Chapter * Western Climate Action Coalition PRESS RELEASE For immediate release: September 15, 2008 For more information: Erica Ringewald, (518) 210-9903, Environmental Advocates of New York Laura Haight, (518) 436-0876 ext. 258, NYPIRG John Sheehan, (518) 432-1770, The Adirondack Council NYS ENERGY RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY TO ADOPT RULES FOR COUNTRY’S 1ST PLAN TO CUT CLIMATE POLLUTION Environmental & Energy Groups Assert that Regional Climate Plan Will Not Burden New York Consumers (Albany, NY) The New York State Energy Research & Development Authority (NYSERDA) is expected to vote to adopt regulations to implement the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) in New York State today. The RGGI is the 10-state plan to reduce the power plant pollution that is changing our climate. The adoption of these regulations sets the stage for New York to participate in the nation’s first auction of carbon dioxide (CO2) permits as part of a cap-and-trade system that will hold the allowed level of CO2 emissions constant through 2014, and then gradually reduce those levels. Along with New York, RGGI states include Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Rhode Island and Vermont. The first auction of CO2 emissions allowances is scheduled for September 25th, and will include six of the 10 RGGI states. The remaining states—including New York—are on track to participate beginning with the second round on December 19th. Environmental and energy groups have closely followed the progress of RGGI regulations and celebrated the State Environmental Board approval of Department of Environmental Conservation regulations for the plan in August. While the same groups applaud NYSERDA’s action today, the groups call into question claims by power producers that the regional climate plan will increase New Yorkers’ utility bills. “Rising energy costs are a critical issue for all New Yorkers. In the long-run the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative will save consumers money and reduce the pollution that is changing our climate,” said Jackson Morris, Environmental Advocates of New York. “Statements by opponents to the regional climate plan about high costs are speculative and not based on sound analysis or research.” According to research, for a typical New York residential customer, the projected increase translates into a retail bill increase of .78 cents. For commercial and industrial customers, the projected retail cost increase ranges from .9 to 1.7 percent in 2015, respectively. “With the adoption of these regulations, we look forward to seeing New York begin auctioning pollution credits in December," said Laura Haight, senior environmental associate with NYPIRG. “This money should be strategically invested to benefit consumers and our environment. One of the biggest bangs for the buck is energy efficiency programs, such as home weatherization retrofits. This will save homeowners on their utility bills, reduce energy use, and create jobs in the private sector.” The modest bill impacts and other figures put forth during the multi-year stakeholder process are based on extensive/sophisticated modeling conducted by numerous researchers and agencies, including NYSERDA, New York Department of Public Service, and others. “RGGI is a crucial first step in combating climate change by helping to level the playing field between fossil fuels and renewable power,” said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York. “By investing the funds generated by the allowance auctions in efficiency and clean energy technologies we can provide long term relief from volatile fuel prices and build a more secure domestic energy supply,” added Ms. Murphy. For example, modeling conducted by the Massachusetts Division of Energy Resources shows that for the entire RGGI region doubling our investment in efficiency would result in recurring utility bill reductions from $66 to $109 per year. In general, these analyses found that economic effects of RGGI are small and positive. “We need to preserve the strong link between how the proceeds from the RGGI auction are spent and the underlying causes of climate change,” said James Van Nostrand, Executive Director of the Pace Energy and Climate Center. “Using the proceeds for energy efficiency would preserve this link by reducing the need for electric generation, and would also provide long-term benefits for utility customers coping with the high costs of energy.” The RGGI was designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from Northeast power plants. In addition to the direct cuts associated with implementing the program that begins in January 2009, auctioning emissions allowances under RGGI also provides revenue for programs that can further reduce pollution. “In 1984, New York created the nation's first cap-and-trade program for air pollution, aimed at controlling the smokestack emissions that causes acid rain. Critics said we were crazy to put ourselves at a competitive disadvantage by imposing rules on ourselves that other states weren't willing impose,” said Brian L. Houseal, Executive Director of the Adirondack Council, a national leader in the fight against acid rain. “But the very next year, New England states began to impose similar rules. Five years later, Congress had amended the Clean Air Act to create a national program based on New York's model. That is exactly what we hope will happen with RGGI and climate change. We just hope it happens faster.” In the years ahead, strategic use of RGGI revenues can save New York consumers money by ramping up funding for programs such as the residential New York Energy Smart Loan Fund Program. Participants receive almost $500 in savings annually for 10 years, for a total of up to $4,650 in offset expenses on interest payments. Furthermore, a household would realize up to 40 percent reductions on their home heating and electric bills—savings that continue to accrue every month of every year into the foreseeable future. New York State is currently finalizing regulations and auction mechanics and will be ready for the second auction in December. /news.cfm/id/70996 Creative Voice Development Group Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:00:00 EST REPORT CALLS FOR GREEN INVESTMENT Study says New York would be big beneficiary of massive "energy security" program By LARRY RULISON, Business writer First published: Wednesday, September 10, 2008 ALBANY -- A new report says New York can create more than 130,000 jobs in the clean energy sector, significantly reducing unemployment rates in just two years. The data were contained in "Green Recovery," published Tuesday by the Center for American Progress, a think tank in Washington, D.C., and the Political Economy Research Institute of the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. The report calls for a $100 billion program to create 2 million "green energy" jobs across the country over two years. Green jobs include those in the solar and wind power fields, mass transit, electric transmission and energy-efficient building construction. The report estimates New York's share of such a program would be $7.1 billion, creating 131,991 new jobs. It would reduce unemployment in the state from 5.2 percent to 3.8 percent. Carol Murphy, executive director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York, an Albany-based trade and advocacy group, said the numbers listed in the report appear doable. She said similar job-creation numbers have been discussed by Gov. David Paterson's renewable energy task force, of which she is a member. "This seems very much in line with what we've been talking about," she said. "The numbers seem very reasonable." The Capital Region is home to several promising clean energy companies, and General Electric Co. has made Schenectady the headquarters for its renewable energy division. A handful of wind developers doing business in the state also have offices in Albany. The report was issued on the same day Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute President Shirley Ann Jackson released a new 100-day energy action plan published by The Council on Competitiveness, a nonpartisan group of corporate, university and labor leaders. Jackson announced the plan at a National Press Club luncheon, which called for the creation of a $200 billion National Clean Energy Bank that would be used to fund investment in clean energy technology through loans, long-term financing and equity investments. The fund would be modeled after the U.S. Export-Import Bank. Jackson is vice chairwoman of the Council on Competitiveness, and co-chair of its Energy Security, Innovation and Sustainability Initiative. The plan, which is designed to provide the next U.S. president with an energy road map, also calls for a $250 billion initiative to create clean energy research labs across the country. "Energy security is the greatest challenge and the greatest opportunity of our time," she said. "A national call to action will ignite our collective imagination, spark a new era of innovation, stimulate our economy, open new markets, unleash our national potential, and enhance our economic and national security." Larry Rulison can be reached at 454-5504 or by e-mail at lrulison@timesunion.com. /news.cfm/id/70784 Creative Voice Development Group Wed, 10 Sep 2008 00:00:00 EST FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 8, 2008 CONTACTS: Carol E. Murphy (ACE NY), 518-432-1405 Loren Riegelhaupt, 917-921-1850 ALLIANCE FOR CLEAN ENERGY NEW YORK COMMENDS GOV. PATERSON’S SIGNING OF ‘NET METERING’ LEGISLATION Signed Laws Significantly Enhance Green Energy Options; Allow Renewable Energy Customers to 'Spin Back' Electricity Meters ALBANY, NY – The Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY), a broad coalition of clean energy advocates, today saluted Governor Paterson’s signing into law a package of legislation that will significantly expand the State’s ‘net metering’ law. “Net metering” allows a customer’s electric meter to “spin backwards,” providing a credit on their utility bill when their on-site renewable energy systems send unused power to the grid. “Governor Paterson’s signing of this critical piece of legislation represents a giant leap forward for the cause of clean energy throughout New York State,” said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of ACE NY. “This is not just a victory for the environment and renewable energy, but also a victory for customers and their wallets. By allowing people to give back to the energy system and get a credit on their bill we are encouraging the use of renewable energy and at the same time saving the customers hard earned money.” Under the leadership of Assembly Energy Chair Kevin Cahill (D) and Senate Energy Chair George Maziarz (R-C) along with bill sponsors Senator Owen Johnson (R-C) and Assemblyman Steve Englebright (D) the bills passed both houses earlier this year. Expanding New York’s net metering law was one of the key recommendations in Gov. Paterson’s Renewable Energy Task Force report issued in February 2008. “We salute their leadership and vision in leading the way towards a new era of energy policy in the Empire State,” said Murphy. Previous laws only allowed net metering for smaller residential and farm service installations and had remained basically unchanged since 1997. The new law expands net metering to allow all customers (including businesses, non-profits and municipalities) to net meter wind energy and solar electric systems. These commercial customers would be allowed to net meter systems up to 2 MW in size or the customers’ historic peak load, whichever is less. Additionally, the new law increases to 500 kW the size of wind and farm waste systems that farmers can net meter. /news.cfm/id/69217 Creative Voice Development Group Fri, 08 Aug 2008 00:00:00 EST The July cover story of Networking Magazine features an exclusive interview with ACE NY's Executive Director Carol E. Murphy. Networking Magazine, a Long-Island based business publication, interviewed Carol following her speaking engagement at the Hauppauge Industrial Association's Clean Technology Seminar during this year's annual trade show and conference. In addition to discussing renewable energy issues throughout the state, the interview also highlights some of ACE NY's members working on Long Island and in the New York metropolitan area, including Renewable Energy Long Island, Citizens Campaign for the Environment, and Verdant Power. Please click on the link below to read the interview in full. Networking Magazine July Cover Story featuring ACE NY Executive Director Carol E. Murphy /news.cfm/id/68854 Creative Voice Development Group Tue, 01 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST CORRECTED RELEASE: Alliance for Clean Energy New York Declares Session a Success for Energy Issues **CORRECTION** FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 26, 2008 CONTACT: Jan Messerschmidt, 212-561-8730 x229 ALLIANCE FOR CLEAN ENERGY NEW YORK DECLARES SESSION A SUCCESS FOR ENERGY ISSUES Albany Passes Key Policy Initiatives: Expansion of Net Metering, Solar Property Tax Abatement & Green Residential Buildings Initiative Carol Murphy: Session a Win for Energy Priorities ALBANY, NY – The Alliance for Clean Energy New York joined clean energy advocates in declaring the 2008 legislative session a success when it came to their energy legislative priorities. Bills that passed this session included the highly anticipated expansion of New York’s net metering law, a solar property tax abatement for New York City and a green residential buildings initiative. "While many have wondered whether this session would produce any major accomplishments, one thing is clear: this session was a victory for the development of clean energy in New York State," said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York. "With the crucial expansion of net metering, the solar power tax rebate, and the green residential buildings initiative, New York will make great strides in bolstering its green economy, decreasing our reliance on fossil fuels and providing new opportunities for the clean energy industry and the jobs that come with it. Governor Paterson and the Legislative leadership deserve high praise for coming together and passing these important pieces of legislation." "These achievements were more than just energy bills, they were jobs bills," said Jeff Jones of the New York State Apollo Alliance. "As we enter the 21st century, it’s crucial that New York State take advantage of innovative new economic sectors like the renewable energy industry, providing high quality, good paying green jobs that benefit the environment and New York’s families. By providing targeted incentives, all three of these bills will stimulate economic development and jobs in the new clean economy." The bills passed in this session included an expansion of "net metering" which allows a customer’s electric meter to "spin backwards," providing a credit on their utility bill when their on-site renewable energy systems send unused power to the grid. The new legislation would expand net metering to allow commercial customers to net meter wind and solar electric systems. These commercial customers would be allowed to net meter systems up to 2MW in size or the customers’ historic peak load, whichever is less. Additionally, the new legislation increases to 500kw the size of wind and farm waste systems that farmers can net meter. The legislature also passed a bill that would allow owners of solar energy systems in New York City to receive a property tax abatement to help pay for their system. The abatement could be worth up to 35% of the cost of expenditure of the system over the course of five years. The Green Residential Buildings Initiative encourages the construction of new homes and the renovation of existing homes to meet "green building" standards. The bill authorizes the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to create a program that will provide financial incentives to New Yorkers who "go green." /news.cfm/id/67186 Creative Voice Development Group Thu, 26 Jun 2008 00:00:00 EST Alliance for Clean Energy New York * Citizens Campaign for the Environment * New York Solar Energy Society * New York Solar Energy Industries Association * Natural Resources Defense Council * The Solar Center * Prism Solar * Environmental Advocates of New York * The Vote Solar Initiative * Sierra Club – Atlantic Chapter * New York Interfaith Power & Light * Solar Alliance * New York Farm Bureau * Renewable Energy Long Island NEWS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 19, 2008 CONTACTS: Carol E. Murphy (ACE NY), 518-701-9085 Dereth Glance (Citizens Campaign), 518-339-2853 Erica Ringewald (EANY), 518-210-9903 Shaun Chapman (Vote Solar), 646-330-4606 Jessica Barry (Prism Solar), 845-943-5377 Tom O’Reilly (Solar Center), 845-735-8616 Christine Donovan (NYSEIA), 518-495-1454 Wyldon Fishman (NYSES), 917-974-4606 Peter Gregg (NYFB), 518-692-2204 NET METERING LEGISLATION PASSES BOTH HOUSES DIVERSE COALITION OF ENERGY & ENVIRONMENTAL ADVOCATES CALLS PASSAGE "HUGE VICTORY FOR THE FUTURE OF RENEWABLE ENERGY IN NEW YORK STATE" ALBANY, NY – A broad coalition of clean energy advocates announced today that the New York State Senate and Assembly had both passed a package of legislation that would greatly expand the State’s 'net metering' law. "Net metering" allows a customer’s electric meter to "spin backwards," providing a credit on their utility bill when their on-site renewable energy systems send unused power to the grid. Current laws allow net metering for smaller residential and farm service installations, but has remained unchanged since 1997. The new legislation would expand net metering to allow commercial customers to net meter wind and solar electric systems. These commercial customers would be allowed to net meter systems up to 2MW in size or the customers’ historic peak load, whichever is less. Additionally, the new legislation increases to 500kw the size of wind and farm waste systems that farmers can net meter. "This is a huge victory for the future of renewable energy in New York State." said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of Alliance for Clean Energy New York. "At its very core, net metering is about economic development, it's about promoting renewable energy and it's about a cleaner environment for New York State. It is common sense for a state with the second highest energy costs in the nation to empower farmers, schools and businesses to harvest clean renewable energy. For too long, New York has lagged behind as other states have passed us with important programs like commercial net metering, drawing much needed investment away from New York. With the passage of this critically important package of legislation, New York has the opportunity to catch up and for all customers to hedge against rising energy costs." "Citizens Campaign for the Environment applauds the NYS Senate and Assembly for empowering all electric customers to harvest, use, and sell clean, homegrown energy from the sun and wind," said Dereth Glance, Executive Program Director for Citizens Campaign for the Environment. "In addition to creating jobs, promoting economic development and energy independence, net metering will improve air and water quality while fighting global climate change—locally,” Glance added. "The NYS Assembly and Senate should be commended for their leadership and initiative in passing expanding net metering legislation," said Christine Donovan, Executive Vice President, New York Solar Energy Industries. "The solar industry serving New York and their customers who want more energy from solar will benefit greatly from this legislation. It is certain to help close the deal for new solar customers, to increase the use of clean, renewable solar energy in New York State, and to help stimulate green collar jobs and local revenue." "These crucial net metering laws will allow customer generators to provide lower cost, clean energy back to the electric grid which will replace polluting energy sources like oil and coal and let New York take a long stride toward energy independence and security," said Richard Schrader, the New York Legislative Director of the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC). "Net metering will save New Yorkers money, make additional power available during times of peak demand, reduce stress on our transmission lines, and protect New Yorkers from the pollution generated by traditional power plants and diesel generators," said Jackson Morris, Air & Energy Program Associate, Environmental Advocates of New York. "We applaud New York State lawmakers for taking this step to reduce the pollution that is changing our climate while encouraging clean energy development by expanding our net metering policy." "The Assembly Energy Chair Kevin Cahill and the Senate Energy Chair George Maziarz should be proud of the work they have done on behalf of New York State. This legislation comes at exactly the right moment. As we enter the dog days of summer, New York will now be able to meet peak energy demand (the most expensive energy to produce and distribute) with valuable, clean solar energy," said Shaun Chapman of the Vote Solar Initiative. "We commend the NYS Assembly and Senate their leadership in passing expanding net metering legislation," said Tom Thompson, President, Board of Directors of the New York Solar Energy Industries Association and Senior Vice President, Atlantis Energy Systems, Inc. "This will help NYS's ratepayers to not only increase the use of clean, renewable solar energy in New York State, it will reduce the cost of peak power, decrease summer peak load, improve grid reliability, stimulate job growth and clean the air we all breath." "Net metering is a key cornerstone of a vibrant state solar market" said Fred Zalcman, New York Team Leader for the Solar Alliance, a coaltion of the world's leading manufacturers and developers of solar photovoltaics. "We applaude the Senate and Assembly for this true demonstration of bipartisanship in addressing New York's pressing energy needs." "Our farmers are becoming more and more innovative in not only producing food on our farms, but energy as well. By capturing the energy from the natural resources that already exist on our farms, such as wind and methane, we are able to generate into the grid, not just take out. This helps our farmers bottom line and is part of our ongoing effort to lead the nation in environmental stewardship," said Jeff Williams, Deputy Director of Public Policy at the New York Farm Bureau. "With the passage of these bills, the forecast for renewable energy in New York is sunny and bright," said Gordian Raacke, Executive Director of Renewable Energy Long Island. "We applaud the State Legislature and our Governor for creating a climate in which much needed clean energy technologies can thrive." The bills in the package included three bills in both houses and were supported by the Assembly Energy Chair Kevin Cahill and Senate Energy Chair George Maziarz. In the Senate, S.7171B and S.8415, sponsored by Senator Owen Johnson (R-Babylon), passed earlier this year and S8481, sponsored by Senator George Maziarz (R-Newfane), was passed by the Senate yesterday. The Assembly passed the three bill package today, which included A.11146 and A.11592, sponsored by Assemblyman Steve Englebright (D-Setauket) and A.11482, sponsored by Assemblyman Tim Gordon (I-Bethlehem). Gov. David Paterson announced yesterday that he would sign all bills involved in the package. /news.cfm/id/67920 Creative Voice Development Group Thu, 19 Jun 2008 00:00:00 EST FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 11, 2008 CONTACT: Shaun Chapman, 646-330-4606 Carol Murphy, 518-701-9085 Fred Zalcman, 301-974-2721 SIENA POLL: NEW YORKERS OVERWHELMINGLY SUPPORT GREATER INVESTMENT IN CLEAN ENERGY Poll arrives as Legislature is poised to address crucial legislation to expand New York’s ‘net metering’ law ALBANY, NY – As legislators debate an expansion of New York’s net metering law, an overwhelming majority of New Yorkers support increased State investment in renewable technologies, a new poll says. Conducted at the end of May as part of the Siena New York Poll of the Siena Research Institute, with questions developed jointly by Siena and a consortium of energy advocates, the poll shows that by a ratio of 9 to 1, New Yorkers believe State leaders are doing the right thing by encouraging renewable energy. "With such a diverse state as ours, rarely ever do we get this kind of unanimity on any issue," said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York. "From Democrat to Republican to Independent, from upstate to downstate, from rural to urban, on this fact New Yorkers are in near-total agreement. New Yorkers have spoken loud and clear: we can, and must, do more to invest in renewable and clean sources of energy. And with critically important bills pending in both houses of the legislature right now to expand New York’s net metering law, we know that Albany is listening." The poll shows that ninety percent of voters—with only 6 percent opposed—support more investment in solar power to produce electricity and nearly as many, eighty-three percent, support the same increased investment for wind power. This level of support registers across nearly every political party, region, ethnicity and age. The poll was released as the legislature addresses a proposal to expand New York’s net metering law. Net metering allows a customer’s electric meter to "spin backwards," providing a credit on their utility bill when their on-site renewable energy systems send unused power to the grid. "These results bear out that elected officials are on the right path, translating the overwhelming public will for more renewable energy through tried and true policies such as net metering," said Fred Zalcman of the Solar Alliance, a coalition of the world’s leading manufacturers and developers of solar energy. "Seldom does one see such a win-win-win for the state’s economy, the environment, and energy security, and the public clearly gets it." Many have urged that New York’s once ground breaking law be expanded, since it is overly restrictive by today’s standards, especially when compared to the policies of neighboring states. Current law in New York only requires utilities to provide net metering for biomass or wind projects at farms, and residential solar or wind projects. For all other customers, including small and large businesses, utilities are not required to allow net metering. Various bills in the legislature propose expanding both the quantity of energy that can be utilized for net metering as well as the customer classes that can qualify, which would encourage schools, towns and businesses to invest in renewable energy systems as a hedge against rising energy prices. "The legislature has done some very difficult work this session in working out the details of how net metering can be expanded in this state, and they should be commended for it," commented Shaun Chapman of the Vote Solar Initiative. "These results confirm that the Senate and the Assembly are doing the people’s work. There is but one more step to take: send a completed net metering bill to the Governor’s desk for signature." [Results of the poll are attached below] Many New Yorkers are concerned about the long-term electrical energy needs of the state. Which of the following technologies do you most support using to meet those needs? Do you most support coal fired power plants, nuclear power plants, natural gas power plants or solar and wind power? Total Dem Rep Ind/Other coal fired power plants 2% 2% 3% 1% nuclear power plants 16% 11% 25% 17% natural gas power plants 10% 10% 9% 12% solar and wind power 63% 65% 57% 65% none 1% 1% 1% 1% other 2% 2% 1% 1% no opinion 6% 9% 5% 3% Would you say that in general you are in favor or opposed to elected officials in New York State encouraging more investment in solar power to produce electricity? Total Dem Rep Ind/Other in favor 90% 90% 88% 93% opposed 6% 5% 8% 6% no opinion 4% 5% 4% 1% Are you in favor or opposed to elected officials in New York State encouraging more investment in Wind Power to produce electricity? Total Dem Rep Ind/Other in favor 83% 83% 83% 85% opposed 10% 8% 10% 12% no opinion 6% 8% 7% 2% refused 0% 0% 0% 1% For dates of data collection, margin of error and number of completed responses visit: http://www.siena.edu//level3col.aspx?menu_id=562&id=6850 /news.cfm/id/67921 Creative Voice Development Group Wed, 11 Jun 2008 00:00:00 EST As a featured guest on the New York Times City Room blog, Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York, takes questions about alternative energy choices for consumers, what New York City is doing to decrease its reliance on fossil fuels and how city dwellers can decrease their “carbon footprint.” Please click on the link below to read the full article. Ask About Alternative Energy in the City /news.cfm/id/68581 Creative Voice Development Group Mon, 28 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 7, 2008 CONTACT: Jan Messerschmidt, 212.561.8730 x229 STATEMENT OF CAROL E. MURPHY ON NYS COMPTROLLER THOMAS DiNAPOLI'S ANNOUNCEMENT OF AN INVESTMENT OF $500 MILLION IN CLEANTECH "As our state looks to new industries to replace those we have lost, and as global climate change becomes a reality, the need for investment in renewable energy and clean technologies becomes increasingly important. "Today's announcement by Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli to commit $500 million over three years to CleanTech industries is an enormous boon to this strategically important sector. Not only will this initiative target businesses that are discovering innovative solutions to decrease greenhouse gas emissions, it will invest in industries that will bring new, high-quality jobs to New York State. "I applaud Comptroller DiNapoli for this crucial investment - an investment that is good for our energy supply, good for our environment, and good for our economy." /news.cfm/id/68229 Creative Voice Development Group Mon, 07 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 4, 2008 CONTACT: Jan Messerschmidt, 212-561-8730 x229 STATEMENT OF CAROL E. MURPHY, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ALLIANCE FOR CLEAN ENERGY NEW YORK ON NYISO'S AWARDING OF WIND FORECASTING CONTRACT Contract Awarded to AWS Truewind, an Alliance for Clean Energy New York Member "From curbing greenhouse gas emissions to meeting our growing demand for energy to developing the potential of the green sector economy, the expansion of New York State's renewable energy is becoming increasingly important. Because wind power is an integral component of an adequate approach to the growth of renewable power in New York, making full use of New York's wind power potential is critical. With some days blustery and other days calm, a high-tech wind forecasting system enables the state to take advantage of the full potential of wind power while ensuring demand is fully met when plentiful wind is not available." "I applaud the NYISO for engaging in this critically important addition to New York's energy infrastructure. In particular, I am very pleased that the NYISO has selected a New York-based leader in wind power assessment, AWS Truewind, of Colonie, NY, to implement the wind-forecasting system." /news.cfm/id/68230 Creative Voice Development Group Fri, 04 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST Remarks of Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York, Inc. Chair of Subcommittee on Central Generation for Lt. Governor David Paterson’s Task Force on Renewable Energy February 25, 2008 Thank you Lieutenant Governor Paterson for your outstanding leadership and for creating this Renewable Energy Task Force. Your management and vision throughout this process have been crucial to the Task Force’s success and I believe it has led all of us to some very exciting recommendations for the future of clean energy in the State of New York. I also want to thank Governor Spitzer for his support of clean energy and commitment to energy efficiency and to all of my fellow members on the Task Force for their great work. As Chair of the Task Force’s Subcommittee on Central Generation, (wind, hydro, tidal power, and biomass) I’d like to talk briefly about some of the key recommendations we identified as critical to the growth of economically fruitful and environmentally beneficial clean energy projects in New York State. Key among these is a streamlined siting and permitting process for renewable energy development (Article X) and improved consistency and coordination among state regulatory agencies’ policies and practices. Simply put: unless we make it easier to build clean energy facilities, they will not get built in New York. Whether or not we can capitalize on the nearly 7,000 MW of proposed wind projects, or additional hydro, innovative tidal power and new biomass plants going forward, also depends on New York maintaining its commitment to renewable energy through investment in “clean-tech” businesses and creative financing such as a Clean Energy Bond Act initiative and investment and production tax credits. The enormous economic potential of the green economy is astounding. We cannot miss this opportunity to grasp the potential to create new, high-quality, good jobs for New Yorkers and pump new fuel, so to speak, into the upstate economy. But to do this, we need a well-trained clean energy workforce to design, install, and maintain these groundbreaking clean energy facilities. By working collaboratively with higher education and other institutions, our state can develop training programs for New Yorkers to produce “green-collar workers” for the growing renewable energy sector. Finally, the subcommittee recommended that the State remove the barriers to municipal government purchases of green power and support the voluntary market for green energy through easy access to green power providers. New York has always been a state that is known for its forward thinking leadership. The recommendations proposed today will help position New York as a national leader in renewable energy. This is an exciting day for the future of clean, renewable energy – and an exciting day for the future of New York. /news.cfm/id/68155 Creative Voice Development Group Mon, 25 Feb 2008 00:00:00 EST FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 9, 2008 CONTACT: Jan Messerschmidt, 212-561-8730 x229 Carol E. Murphy, 518-432-1405 STATEMENT OF CAROL E. MURPHY, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF ALLIANCE FOR CLEAN ENERGY NEW YORK, ON GOVERNOR SPITZER’S STATE OF THE STATE ADDRESS "I applaud Governor Spitzer's strong expression of support today for clean energy development in New York State. Net metering, a new Article X and smart metering are all essential components in a comprehensive effort to combat global warming, increase our energy independence, and develop a thriving green economy." "The legislature's current bill to expand net metering is a critically important effort to encourage businesses to green their operations and fairly benefit from their own production of clean power. Net metering is a proven way to increase our State's use of clean energy while at the same time allowing small businesses to invest in their future through a hedge against rising fuel costs." "The Alliance for Clean Energy New York also agrees that strong energy efficiency measures must be taken and we appreciate the Governor’s leadership in this area, as well as his call for a power plant siting law (Article X) sensitive to the challenge of global climate change. Article X's reauthorization remains one of the most important priorities for the legislature to address in this upcoming session. An Article X will be key to ensuring that New York State can produce the power it needs for its residents in the coming years while simultaneously protecting public health and the environment. "The public should be encouraged by Governor Spitzer's strong leadership to develop clean energy in New York State. Clean energy and green collar jobs can help create a healthy, sustainable and vibrant New York economy." /news.cfm/id/68159 Creative Voice Development Group Wed, 09 Jan 2008 00:00:00 EST