/ The Alliance for Clean Energy New York News en-us Copyright 2008 ACENY / Sat, 04 Feb 2012 07:40:51 EST ACE NY Commends Governor Cuomo's State of the State Address... FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 4, 2012 CONTACT: Carol E. Murphy, 518-432-1405, cemurphy@aceny.org ACE NY COMMENDS GOVERNOR CUOMO'S STATE OF THE STATE ADDRESS ALBANY, NY—The Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY), a statewide coalition of clean energy and environmental advocates, praised Governor Andrew M. Cuomo for his continued support of clean energy and energy efficiency in today’s State of the State address. “ACE NY applauds Governor Cuomo’s call for increased energy efficiency and the expansion of our renewable resources,” said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of ACE NY. “The Governor’s goal of upgrading and improving our transmission infrastructure is a necessary investment and will allow New York to further develop its renewable resources. When combined with reductions in energy consumption and accelerating the development of clean energy resources such as solar power, New York will be well positioned to maintain a sustainable energy future.” “Reshaping New York’s current energy portfolio will require a significant increase in renewable resources like wind and solar, as well as continued progress in reducing overall energy consumption,” said Ms. Murphy. “We strongly believe that policymakers, regulators, utilities, and private industry must join together to increase investment in these technologies. By strengthening and expanding the programs administered by NYSERDA, NYPA, LIPA and the utilities, and ensuring that all state agencies are operating in support of the state’s renewable energy goals, New York can and will become a leader in the green energy economy.” “Clean energy and energy efficiency both present significant environmental and economic opportunities that will benefit all New Yorkers. We commend the Governor for his ongoing commitment to the state’s clean energy goals and look forward to working with him and members of the Legislature to see those goals met and expanded in the near future.” ### 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 and energy efficiency technologies. www.aceny.org /news.cfm/id/86919 Creative Voice Development Group Wed, 04 Jan 2012 00:00:00 EST New Yorkers Call For Action on Offshore Wind Diverse Coalition of Environmental, Business, Public Health, and Labor Leaders Call on Federal and State Agencies to Bring Clean Energy Ashore 12-21-2011 // Catherine Bowes A broad coalition of New York’s environmental, business, and labor organizations today called on state and federal leaders to move forward with offshore wind development. New York has substantial offshore wind resources and there are currently several proposals to develop job-producing clean energy off the coast of Long Island. The Wind Works 4 Long Island Coalition set a single, clear message: It is time to get moving and generate much-needed clean energy for New York from offshore wind. Statements from coalition partners: "The diversity of this coalition demonstrates broad and unprecedented support for harvesting the region’s abundant offshore wind resource,” said Gordian Raacke, Executive Director of Renewable Energy Long Island, a regional not-for-profit organization. “As environmental, business, public health, and labor groups we know that offshore wind power means cleaner air, a stronger economy, and more jobs." "In 2012, LIPA and Governor Cuomo will make significant energy decisions for Long Island that will impact us for decades to come. Offshore wind needs to be advanced and embraced as part of our energy mix in order to lead us away from the hazards of fossil fuels. Our new coalition is here to let Albany and LIPA know that we need their leadership to achieve the essential goals of cleaner air, energy independence and cost control," said Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director at Citizens Campaign for the Environment. "Our energy challenges present economic development opportunities for Long Island. Renewable energy projects like offshore wind initiatives can help our environment and our economy. Long Island has the potential to be the clean energy capital of the east coast and we are supportive of the wind and solar industries as we think it will create jobs for Long Islanders," said Kevin S. Law, President & Chief Executive Officer of the Long Island Association. "We must continue with a common goal to push the boundaries toward a renewable energy future," said Action Long Island Chairman Sheldon R. Sackstein. "It is essential to recognize that we are here today writing the energy history of Long Island, being called upon by the future to take action now. This must be our legacy." "Wind energy and other renewable energy sources can create hundreds of thousands of new American jobs," said Roger Clayman, Executive Director of Long Island Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO. "Clean energy plays a vital role in our economic recovery." "Expanding the use of renewable energy sources such as offshore wind power will not only conserve energy, it will reduce pollution and improve the quality of air we all breathe," said Michael Seilback, VP of Public Policy and Communications at the American Lung Association in New York. "New Yorkers, including the 2.5 million who suffer from lung disease, deserve the clean air benefits that wind power provides." "With progress on clean energy short-circuited in Washington, New York has an unprecedented opportunity to lead the nation," said Marcia Bystryn, President of the New York League of Conservation Voters. "Offshore wind energy will not only help clean the air, it will create 21st century jobs that are desperately needed on Long Island and around New York State. We urge Governor Cuomo, Senate Majority Leader Skelos, Speaker Silver and LIPA to get behind this and other clean energy advancements." "By failing to capture the power of offshore wind, we're ignoring pollution-free power for nearly four million New York homes," said Ross Gould, Air & Energy Program Director for Environmental Advocates of New York. "So while New Yorkers are debating the dangers of industrial gas drilling and fracking, we should be harnessing a true clean energy source--offshore wind." "Governor Cuomo has a golden opportunity to lead the nation in the pursuit of local, job-producing clean energy from offshore wind," said Catherine Bowes, Senior Policy Representative at National Wildlife Federation. "On behalf of our over two hundred thousand members and supporters in New York, National Wildlife Federation calls on our state and federal leaders to rapidly move offshore wind energy development forward in order to protect future generations of people and wildlife from the harmful pollution resulting from our reliance on fossil fuels." "Offshore wind can help New York meet its renewable energy goals while creating new green collar jobs and sustainable economic growth," said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York. "The level of economic impact that offshore wind has to offer far exceeds that of conventional generation, and when combined with the environmental benefits of having an emissions-free resource that is immune to the volatility of fossil fuel prices, offshore wind is easily one of the best options for meeting Long Island and New York City's growing energy needs. We encourage our leaders and policy makers to keep the momentum going and ensure the successful development of Long Island's proposed offshore wind projects." "Long Island and New York State are blessed with an abundant offshore wind resource which presents a unique opportunity to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels while reducing our carbon footprint," said Robert Catell, Chairman of the Advanced Energy Research and Technology Center at Stony Brook University. "We must increase the amount of renewable energy in Long Island’s energy mix and environmentally acceptable and competitively priced offshore wind projects should be seriously considered." "By harnessing the wind blowing off our shores, not only can we power New York with clean energy, we can create much-needed jobs and attract new industry to the state," said Brandi Colander at Natural Resources Defense Council. "With enormous potential for offshore wind power in New York, we can develop a sustainable source of domestic energy here at home, while capturing the enormous economic and environmental benefits that come with it." "Offshore wind has the potential to reduce New York's reliance on dirty fossil fuels, improve our air quality and our health, and provide thousands of local jobs," said Vanessa Pierce, Director of the Eastern Region for the Sierra Club's Beyond Coal Campaign. "By being the first state to develop offshore wind in the Atlantic, New York can lead the way to a cleaner energy future." "For the first year ever, more global investment capital went toward renewable energy than fossil fuels. Offshore wind is an exciting, technologically-available form of renewable energy that can rapidly contribute to fulfilling our energy needs and creating a cleaner environment, while keeping billions of energy dollars in Long Island's economy, where they belong," said Bob DiBenedetto, President/Executive Director of HealthyPlanet. "The HIA-LI applauds the offshore wind coalition for this much needed effort toward a renewable energy future," said Terri Alessi – Miceli, President, Hauppauge Industrial Association (HIA-LI). "We understand that offshore wind power helps create a more efficient economy." /news.cfm/id/86916 Creative Voice Development Group Wed, 21 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST Covanta Withdraws Waste-to-Energy Petition to Public Service Commission... FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 8, 2011 FOR MORE INFORMATION: Laura Haight, NYPIRG, 518-588-5481 or lhaight@nypirg.org Carol Murphy, Alliance for Clean Energy NY, 518-701-9085 or cemurphy@aceny.org Erica Ringewald, Environmental Advocates of NY, 518-210-9903 or eringewald@eany.org Eddie Bautista, NYC Environmental Justice Alliance, 347-841-4410 or nyceja@gmail.com Kathleen O’Neill, American Lung Association in NY, 518-465-2013 x322 or koneill@alany.org COVANTA WITHDRAWS WASTE-TO-ENERGY PETITION TO PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION Groups Hail Victory for Clean Energy ALBANY, NY—Covanta Energy Corporation today withdrew its request to the New York State Public Service Commission to make garbage incineration eligible for the state's Renewable Portfolio Standard. Environmental and clean energy advocates hailed this as a major victory for clean energy. Over the summer, dozens of advocacy groups, businesses, and elected officials and thousands of individual citizens submitted comments strongly opposing Covanta's petition, arguing that garbage incineration is not renewable energy and should not be given the same incentives as wind and solar power. Groups opposing Covanta’s petition included the Alliance for Clean Energy New York, American Lung Association in New York, Center for Health, Environment & Justice, Citizens Campaign for the Environment, Citizens' Environmental Coalition, Clean and Healthy New York, Consumers Union, Earthjustice, Environmental Advocates of New York, Natural Resources Defense Council, NYC Environmental Justice Alliance (NYC-EJA), New York Lawyers for the Public Interest, New York Public Interest Research Group (NYPIRG), and Sierra Club – Atlantic Chapter. New York’s Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) was established in 2004 to promote clean, renewable energy such as wind and solar power to replace dirty fossil fuels. Consumers pay for the RPS through a small surcharge on their monthly utility bills. This is the third time that the PSC has weighed including garbage incineration in the RPS. Due to its adverse environmental impacts and strong public opposition, the PSC has rejected including garbage incineration in the RPS twice before, in 2004 and 2010. At its November 17th meeting, the PSC staff again recommended that the Commissioners deny Covanta's petition. A vote had been expected at their upcoming meeting. -30- 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 and energy efficiency technologies. www.aceny.org /news.cfm/id/86902 Creative Voice Development Group Thu, 08 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST Alliance for Clean Energy New York | American Lung Association in New York | Center for Health, Environment & Justice | Citizens Campaign for the Environment | Citizens’ Environmental Coalition | Environmental Advocates of New York | Natural Resources Defense Council | NYC Environmental Justice Alliance | New York Public Interest Research Group | Sierra Club – Atlantic Chapter PRESS STATEMENT For immediate release: November 17, 2011 For more information: Erica Ringewald, EANY, 518-210-9903 Laura Haight, NYPIRG, 518-436-0876 x258 Carol E. Murphy, ACE NY, 518-432-1405 Barbara Warren, CEC, 845-754-7951 Kathleen O’Neill, ALA, 518-465-2013 x322 Groups Disappointed by Public Service Commission’s Delay on Waste-to-Energy Petition (ALBANY, NY)—In response to the Public Service Commission’s decision to delay the vote on a petition by the Covanta Energy Corporation to make garbage incineration eligible for the state’s Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS), Alliance for Clean Energy New York, American Lung Association in New York, Center for Health, Environment & Justice, Citizens Campaign for the Environment, Citizens’ Environmental Coalition, Environmental Advocates of New York, Natural Resources Defense Council, NYC Environmental Justice Alliance, New York Public Interest Research Group, and Sierra Club – Atlantic Chapter released the following statement: “The Public Service Commission had a simple task today, to reject a petition to consider trash burning clean energy. Thousands of New Yorkers, as well as good government, environmental, and public health groups, and the Commission’s own staff, all agree the petition should be rejected. Today’s delay won’t change the fact that investing New York’s precious dollars meant for clean energy to burn trash would be a major step backward in the state’s ongoing attempts to reduce air and climate pollution and invest in a clean energy future.” New York’s Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) was established in 2004 to promote clean, renewable energy such as wind and solar power to replace dirty fossil fuels. Consumers pay for the RPS through a small surcharge on their monthly utility bills. More than 2,500 letters opposing Covanta’s petition were sent in to the PSC this summer from a wide range of organizations, businesses, elected officials, and individuals. Due to its adverse environmental impacts and strong public opposition, the PSC has rejected including garbage incineration in the RPS twice before, in 2004 and 2010. While Covanta is trying to recast garbage burning as “clean,” municipal solid waste incinerators are major polluters, generating both harmful air emissions and large quantities of toxic ash. /news.cfm/id/86899 Creative Voice Development Group Thu, 17 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST Renewable Energy Long Island Alliance for Clean Energy New York News Release MEDIA CONTACTS Gordian Raacke, reLI, (516) 313-6611, Gordian@RenewableEnergyLongIsland.org, Carol E. Murphy, ACE NY, (518) 432-1405, cemurphy@aceny.org, and Ailis Aaron Wolf, for the Civil Society Institute, (703) 276-3265, aawolf@hastingsgroup.com. NEW REPORT OUTLINES REALISTIC PATH FOR CLEANER AND LESS EXPENSIVE ENERGY FUTURE FOR LONG ISLAND and NEW YORK Reducing Use of Coal, Nuclear and Natural Gas Would be Good for the Environment… and Benefit Consumers’ Pocketbooks (ALBANY, NY) – November 16, 2011 – Good news for Long Island and New York State consumers: in addition to enjoying cleaner air and less demand on increasingly scarce water resources, Americans would likely see lower, rather than higher, electricity costs by 2020 if the U.S. adopts a long-term strategy to replace coal-fired and other fossil-fueled electricity with energy efficiency and renewable resources, according to a major new report from Synapse Energy Economics for the nonprofit Civil Society Institute (CSI). Renewable Energy Long Island (reLI) and the Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY) joined CSI today in releasing and commenting on the report on Long Island and in New York. Titled Toward a Sustainable Future for the US Power Sector: Beyond Business as Usual 2011, the new Synapse/CSI report outlines a future under which: Due in part to a significantly increased emphasis on energy efficiency, power sector carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by 2020 would fall 25 percent below 2010 levels; by 2050, such pollution would be 81 percent below 2010 levels. Under “business as usual” (BAU) status quo trends, CO2 emissions would grow 28 percent from current levels by 2050. The steep health and environmental (including water use) impacts of coal-fired electricity are dramatically reduced and, by 2050, eliminated altogether when all such facilities are retired. For example, over $450 billion in health effects and 55,000 premature deaths are avoided relative to “BAU” trends linked to pollution from coal-fired plants. The construction and operation of the new power plants in the first decade would create roughly 3.1 million new job-years – the equivalent of 310,000 people employed for the entire decade. By retiring a number of existing nuclear plants and not building new ones, the risks associated with nuclear power generation and the nuclear fuel cycle are reduced considerably. Natural gas use in 2050 would be reduced 28 percent from projected levels for 2050. The transition to a cleaner energy future would result in a net savings of $83 billion over the next 40 years. Gordian Raacke, Executive Director of Renewable Energy Long Island, said: "This report clearly shows that switching from fossil and nuclear to efficiency and renewable energy sources is not only good for our environment and public health but will actually save us money and create jobs. What is needed now is a clear roadmap for Long Island and New York State that lays out the path to this much needed transition to meeting our electricity needs with energy efficiency and renewable energy over the next few decades." Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York, said: "This is extremely encouraging news for those of us who are working to ensure that New York keeps moving ahead on the path to a cleaner energy future. The report reaffirms what we know about the many environmental and economic benefits of increasing our use of energy efficiency and renewable energy resources. Making the transition is both feasible and cost-effective, and a goal that New Yorkers and the nation as a whole need to stay focused on." Civil Society Institute President Pam Solo said: "The evidence is all around us that America needs to move to a cleaner energy future. The use of fracking in natural gas exploration is coming under scrutiny with new evidence of groundwater contamination and greenhouse gas emissions. Concerns are increasing about the vast amounts of water used at coal-fired and nuclear power plants, particularly in regions of the country facing water shortages. Events at the Fukushima nuclear plant have renewed doubts about the ability to operate large numbers of nuclear plants safely over the long term. We applaud Renewable Energy Long Island and the Alliance for Clean Energy New York for its efforts to help advance the U.S. in the direction of cleaner energy." Synapse Energy Economics President Bruce Biewald said: "Information has emerged over the past year suggesting that the cost of replacing coal with clean energy is falling. The current and projected price of coal has increased, and the price of photovoltaic systems has fallen sharply since 2009, a result of unprecedented growth in this sector globally. Further, the financial community is placing higher risk premiums on technologies with carbon emissions, making renewable energy and efficiency more attractive. Given these trends, a revision of last year’s study seemed especially timely. The results of this analysis are very encouraging. We find that a transition to efficiency and renewable energy for our electricity is likely to be less expensive than the business-as-usual status quo approach." The new Synapse report for the Civil Society Institute updates a similar report issued in May 2010. The new report is available online at www.CivilSocietyInstitute.org. ABOUT THE GROUPS 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 and energy efficiency technologies. www.aceny.org Renewable Energy Long Island (reLI), established in 2003, is a membership-based, not-for-profit organization promoting clean, sustainable energy use and generation for Long Island. reLI conducts effective outreach and education activities and provides consumer-friendly information resources such as its SunshineIsFree.org solar calculator and contractor locator, and publishes the Long Island GreenGuide in print and as an online edition with a green business directory. www.RenewableEnergyLongIsland.org Based in Newton, MA, the nonprofit and nonpartisan Civil Society Institute (www.CivilSocietyInstitute.org) is a think tank that serves as a catalyst for change by creating problem-solving interactions among people, and between communities, government and business that can help to improve society. Since 2003, CSI has conducted more than 25 major national and state-level surveys and reports on energy and energy-related issues. In addition to being a co-convener of TheCLEAN.org, the Civil Society Institute also is the parent organization of the Hybrid Owners of America (www.HybridOwnersofAmerica.org). Synapse Energy Economics (www.synapse-energy.com) provides research, testimony, reports and regulatory support on energy, economic, and environmental topics. Synapse has a professional staff of 22 with more than 300 years of combined experience in the electricity and natural gas industries. Synapse assesses the implications of electricity and natural gas industry planning, regulation and restructuring. Synapse works for a wide range of clients throughout the United States, including attorneys general, offices of consumer advocates, public utility commissions, a variety of environmental groups, foundations, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Energy, Department of Justice, the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners, and others. EDITOR’S NOTE: You can participate in a related live, phone-based news conference (with full, two-way Q&A) at 1:30 p.m. ET on November 16, 2011 by dialing (877) 270-2148. Ask for the “sustainable energy future” news event. A streaming audio replay of a related news event will be available on the Web at www.civilsocietyinstitute.org as of 5 p.m. ET on November 16, 2011. /news.cfm/id/86896 Creative Voice Development Group Wed, 16 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 28, 2011 CONTACT: Carol E. Murphy, 518-432-1405 STATE ENERGY LEADERS AND ADVOCATES GATHER IN SUPPORT OF NEW YORK’S CLEAN ENERGY ECONOMY Alliance for Clean Energy New York Honors Clean Energy Leaders with Awards ALBANY, NY—State policymakers, renewable energy advocates, energy industry leaders and more than one hundred attendees met recently in Albany to learn first-hand about how to put sustainable energy plans into action and take the next steps forward in the transition to a clean energy economy at the Alliance for Clean Energy New York’s (ACE NY) fifth annual fall conference and membership meeting. “The clean energy industry is ready and willing to fulfill its role in overcoming today's economic and environmental challenges. In bringing together ACE NY’s members and supporters for a thoughtful discussion on the challenges and opportunities we face, this event has helped us identify how we can effectively move forward in growing and supporting New York’s green economy,” said Carol E. Murphy, ACE NY Executive Director. The conference, entitled From Innovation to Implementation, included several presentations and expert panel discussions on topics such as grid integration of renewable energy technologies, New York’s key areas of innovation, the newly reenacted Article X power plant siting law, and climate change education. The conference also featured keynote addresses by Garry Brown, Chairman of the NYS Public Service Commission, and Jared Snyder, Assistant Commissioner for Air Resources, Climate Change and Energy at the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation. During the conference ACE NY presented its annual Sustainable Energy Leadership Awards, which recognize outstanding work in support of clean energy and energy efficiency. Outstanding Industry Leader Awards were presented to Albany-based renewable energy consulting firm AWS Truepower, and Patrick Doyle, Vice President of Development at Ridgeline Energy, which specializes in developing, constructing and operating community and utility scale wind and solar energy projects across the United States and Canada. “Over the past 25 years, New York’s progressive energy environment has helped our company grow into a national leader in renewable energy consulting,” noted Bruce Bailey, President and CEO of AWS Truepower. “Our staff is committed to helping make wind and solar energy projects successful and a greater part of our energy mix.” “I’m honored to have been chosen for this award,” said Patrick Doyle. “Wind and solar are playing a vital role in transforming New York’s electricity grid to a truly sustainable mix of clean, efficient, and renewable energy, while realizing the jobs and economic promise of these emerging industries. Clean energy technologies are also helping New York meet its aggressive green energy goals, improving our air quality, and leaving the world a better place for our children.” Outstanding Outreach Partner Awards were presented to Sustainable CUNY for its major impact on increasing solar power production in New York City via leadership of the NYC Solar America City Partnership, and to Shaun Chapman of the Vote Solar Initiative, for his exemplary outreach and education efforts on behalf of New York’s entire renewable energy community. On receiving the award, Tria Case, University Director of Sustainability and lead for the NYC Solar America City Partnership commented, “CUNY is proud to be leading a collaborative process among NYC stakeholders aimed at removing barriers to the largest commercial market in the country and creating a more seamless transition from existing energy resources to clean and renewable resources. Initial efforts have resulted in a six fold increase in solar production and the quadrupling of solar installation companies in NYC, a clear sign of growth in our clean energy economy.” “On behalf of Vote Solar, I accept this award with great pride,” said Shaun Chapman of the Vote Solar Initiative. “The opportunity to work with such an exemplary group of leaders and advocates for renewable energy – especially for the New York Solar Jobs Act – has been the reward. We have an incredible opportunity to reclaim our energy future in New York with clean power. That opportunity was not given to us, but rather created by hard work by inspirational partners like ACE NY and everyone in this diverse and strong coalition.” (Photos from the award ceremony are available for review and download online. Please call Laura Lyman at 518-432-1405 for more information.) ### 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 and energy efficiency technologies. www.aceny.org /news.cfm/id/86882 Creative Voice Development Group Fri, 28 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 6, 2011 CONTACTS: Carol E. Murphy, ACE NY, (518) 432-1405, cemurphy@aceny.org Manna Jo Greene, Clearwater, (845) 807-1270, mannajo@clearwater.org Eddie Bautista, NYC-EJA, (347) 841-4410, nyceja@gmail.com ADVOCATES CALL ON CUOMO TO PRIORITIZE CLEAN ENERGY RESOURCES IF INDIAN POINT IS CLOSED Offshore wind replacement power option for NYC ALBANY, NY—Environmentalists and clean energy supporters are calling on Governor Cuomo to replace power from the Indian Point Energy Center with clean energy resources, including solar power, onshore wind, energy efficiency initiatives, and especially large-scale offshore wind power, if he is successful in his quest to close Indian Point. In a letter endorsed by the Alliance for Clean Energy New York, American Lung Association in New York, Citizens Campaign for the Environment, Citizens' Environmental Coalition, Environmental Advocates of New York, Harness the Hudson, Hudson River Sloop Clearwater, Morningside Heights/West Harlem Sanitation Coalition, National Wildlife Federation, NYC Environmental Justice Alliance, New York Interfaith Power & Light, New York League of Conservation Voters, New York Public Interest Research Group, Renewable Energy Long Island, Sierra Club’s Beyond Coal Campaign and the Vote Solar Initiative, advocates note that while closing Indian Point will reduce risks to public safety and protect surrounding ecosystems along the Hudson River, replacing that power generation with fossil fuels will simply shift public health and environmental threats to other areas of the state. Offshore wind resources are the logical solution to the demand for large-scale clean energy installations in the New York City metropolitan area and could be online and operating by 2020 at the latest, with some certainly online by 2017-18. Wind energy is free of pollution, creates domestic jobs, and bolsters local economies. "We need Governor Cuomo’s leadership to ensure that closing Indian Point becomes an opportunity to advance the development of clean, renewable energy in New York State," said Carol E. Murphy, executive director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York. "The level of economic impact that offshore wind has to offer far exceeds that of conventional generation resources, and when combined with the environmental benefits of having an emissions-free resource, offshore wind is the best option for meeting New York City's growing energy needs and replacing power from Indian Point should it close in the near future. Combining offshore wind energy with onshore wind energy, solar power and energy efficiency is a win-win for the economy and the environment of New York State." "Relicensing Indian Point would be like playing Russian roulette with our future," said Manna Jo Greene, environmental director of Hudson River Sloop Clearwater, Inc. "In this post-Fukushima world, transitioning to a green energy economy should be our most urgent national and statewide priority. We support Governor Cuomo's commitment to find a way close the aging, leaking nuclear facility at Indian Point once and for all. We hope the Governor will appreciate the economic opportunity as well as the environmental and public safety benefits of aggressively putting renewable and energy efficiency infrastructure in place. Germany has rapidly closed its nuclear fleet by having done this. Let's make the Hudson Valley the Germany of New York!" "The NYC Environmental Justice Alliance has long supported the closure of Indian Point - on the condition that new replacement power plants not be foisted on the same environmentally overburdened communities of color that have long borne the brunt of NYS's polluting infrastructure," said Eddie Bautista, executive director of the NYC Environmental Justice Alliance. "Offshore wind is a long missing piece to NYS's energy puzzle - a missing piece that can decrease polluting power plant siting pressures in our communities. Thanks to Governor Cuomo's visionary leadership, the new Article X power plant siting law has the potential to avoid additional pollution impacts in overburdened communities, but it is not a guarantee. We call on the Governor to apply that same visionary leadership to bringing offshore wind to NYS, and thus eliminate the last argument standing between New Yorkers and an Indian Point-free future." ### Click to download: October 6, 2011 Letter to Governor Cuomo - Replace Indian Point With Renewables (pdf) 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 and energy efficiency technologies. www.aceny.org /news.cfm/id/86863 Creative Voice Development Group Thu, 06 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST Alliance for Clean Energy New York • Environmental Advocates of New York • Environment New York • National Wildlife Federation • Natural Resources Defense Council • New York League of Conservation Voters • Pace Energy and Climate Center • Renewable Energy Long Island • Sierra Club NEW YORK TAKES MAJOR STEP FORWARD ON OFFSHORE WIND Environmental groups praise Governor Cuomo for restarting process to bring clean energy ashore ALBANY, NY (September 15, 2011) – New York’s leading environmental organizations applauded Governor Cuomo today for taking action to restart the process for pursuing offshore wind energy. Today, a lease application was submitted for the Long Island–New York City Offshore Wind Project – a collaborative effort by New York Power Authority, Long Island Power Authority, and Con Edison to build an offshore wind farm 13 miles off the Rockaway Peninsula. New York has substantial offshore wind resources, and it is time that New Yorkers reap the economic and environmental benefits of locally produced clean energy. Offshore wind projects must be sited in a manner that is protective of our coastal and marine resources, and our organizations look forward to working with all the partners involved to ensure that this and other offshore wind projects receive sufficient environmental review. Responses to today’s announcement: "Long Island and New York are blessed with an abundant energy resource right here at our doorsteps, yet we have so far ignored the potential to meet a significant amount of our electricity demand with offshore wind power," said Gordian Raacke, Executive Director of Renewable Energy Long Island, a regional not-for-profit organization. "New York State needs to accelerate plans for offshore wind farms and today’s application to lease areas for wind energy production is an encouraging sign." Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York, said: "As projects up and down the Atlantic coast come closer to fruition, beginning the federal leasing process in New York is a very important and timely step forward. We commend NYPA, LIPA and Con Edison for continuing their commitment to this initiative and look forward to seeing New Yorkers reap the many economic and environmental benefits of offshore wind power." "Clean, homegrown energy sources like offshore wind will play a key role in New York's energy future and Environmental Advocates of New York applauds Governor Cuomo for taking this critical step forward by supporting the New York Power Authority as it files this offshore wind lease application," said Ross Gould, Air & Energy Program Director, Environmental Advocates of New York. "New Yorkers should be proud today – the state has taken an important step forward in creating more jobs and clean energy with offshore wind," said Catherine Bowes, Senior Energy Policy Representative at National Wildlife Federation. "NWF is working to advance appropriately-sited offshore wind projects up and down the Atlantic coast, and we are excited that New York has joined its neighbors in pursuing this critical clean energy source sitting right off our shores." "Talk about a win-win for New York’s economy and environment," said Marcia Bystryn, President of the New York League of Conservation Voters. "For too long, New York has sent its energy dollars out of state and out of the country – and in return, we have gotten dirtier air and climate-altering emissions. The Long Island-New York City Offshore Wind Project will help reverse that trend, by generating clean energy and creating new jobs close to home. We congratulate Governor Cuomo, the New York Power Authority, Long Island Power Authority, and Con Edison for this important step forward, and we look forward to working with them to complete a world-class wind-energy project." "Our coastline is a prime location to harness renewable wind energy and New York workers are ready to take advantage of the domestic jobs opportunities the offshore wind industry stands to offer," said Brandi Colander, Natural Resources Defense Council energy attorney. "NRDC is encouraged by the progress of the LI-NYC Offshore Wind Collaborative. We look forward to continuing to work with the Collaborative and BOEMRE to ensure New York’s abundant marine life is protected as we advance this initiative." "Today's announcement that three major utilities have applied for lease of an offshore wind facility is great news," said Eric Whalen of Environment New York. "Tapping a fraction of New York's vast reserves of wind off our coast is one of the critical ways we keep the state moving toward clean energy. We urge the cooperation of local, state and federal officials to help make offshore wind a key part of our state's plan to reduce fossil fuel pollution from power plants." "Investment in wind power near New York City and Long Island will mean healthier air, hundreds of clean energy jobs for New York workers and reliable, affordable energy for businesses," said Mark Kresowik, Northeast Regional Director for the Sierra Club’s Beyond Coal Campaign. "Governor Cuomo, NYPA, and LIPA should put New Yorkers back to work by committing to buy the power from proposed clean energy projects throughout the state and moving away from dirty and dangerous energy sources." "Today’s announcement demonstrates that the Governor gets it," said Franz Litz, Executive Director of the Pace Energy and Climate Center. "Renewable energy ensures our energy dollars stay in the state. Clean energy creates jobs. This is the right initiative at the right time." CONTACT: Carol Murphy, Alliance for Clean Energy New York: 518-432-1405 Eric Whalen, Environment New York: 646-473-0905 Catherine Bowes, National Wildlife Federation: 802-272-1243 Jenny Powers, Natural Resources Defense Council: 212-727-4566 Dan Hendrick, New York League of Conservation Voters: 212-361-6350 x206 Gordian Raacke, Renewable Energy Long Island: 631-329-8888 Nick Sifuentes, Sierra Club: 212-791-3600 x279 # # # /news.cfm/id/86858 Creative Voice Development Group Thu, 15 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST Alliance for Clean Energy New York • Citizens Campaign for the Environment • New York Public Interest Research Group • Sierra Club Atlantic Chapter For immediate release: August 10, 2011 For more info, contact: Adrienne Esposito, (516) 390-7150, aesposito@citizenscampaign.org Brian Smith, (716) 472-4078, bsmith@citizenscampaign.org BURNING GARBAGE IS NOT RENEWABLE ENERGY Clean energy advocates call on PSC to deny energy company’s ill-conceived request Albany, NY- Clean energy advocates are calling on the NYS Public Service Commission (PSC) to reject Covanta Energy Corporation’s request to include burning garbage, known as Energy from Waste (EfW), as an eligible technology under New York’s Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS). The PSC is accepting public comment on Covanta’s request until Friday, August 19. The groups are calling on the public to weigh in against this proposal before the close of the comment period. "While our society produces more and more garbage, that doesn’t make it a renewable resource," said Adrienne Esposito, CCE Executive Director. "Covanta’s request flies in the face of the intent of the RPS, and would only detract from the state’s ability to develop a clean energy economy. Citizens Campaign for the Environment strongly urges the PSC to deny Covanta’s petition." The RPS is funded by a small charge on utility ratepayer’s monthly electric bill. Average homeowners pay approximately 25 cents per month into the program, which totals approximately $175 million annually. If the PSC granted Covanta’s request, EfW facilities could receive funding under the RPS, redirecting limited funds away from legitimate renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar. Similar past requests have been rejected by the PSC. "The PSC has continually rejected requests to include burning garbage in the RPS, and there is nothing new in Covanta’s petition that warrants a change in the PSC’s position," said Brian Smith, CCE’s Communications and Program Director. "It seems that you can’t keep a bad idea down. We are counting on the PSC to recognize that this petition is nothing more than a wolf in sheep’s clothing, and reject it outright." The NYS RPS was established in 2004 after extensive stakeholder input and public hearings across New York State. The RPS set a goal for producing 25% of the state’s electricity from renewable resources by the year 2013. The RPS has since been expanded to 30% renewable energy by 2015. "Allowing trash incineration to participate in the RPS will significantly impede New York’s ability to invest in clean, emissions-free technologies like solar, wind, and hydro power," said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY). "That goes against the intent of the RPS program and would be a major step back in our fight against global climate change. The economic repercussions will be substantial as well. Without the strong policies and market support that the RPS currently provides, New York will be turning its back on a growing clean energy industry that has already contributed thousands of green-collar jobs to our statewide economy and has the potential to retool our manufacturing sector." "Based upon New York's failed history with "waste to energy", contemplation of going back to waste incineration technologies is the very definition of insanity and subsidizing the practice is downright obscene,” said Chris Burger, Zero Waste Chair of the Sierra Club Atlantic Chapter. "New York has limited funds to promote wind and solar energy development. It’s unconscionable to think of redirecting those precious dollars to burning what we should be recycling." "The public agreed to the RPS fee as a means to advance our state in developing and using clean, safe, emissions free renewable energy. It would be a breach of public trust to change course and use those funds to expand incinerators of waste. That was not part of the agreement," Esposito concluded. The public can submit a comment to the PSC by August 19, 2011. Comments should reference Case 03-E-0188 and can be emailed to secretary@dps.state.ny.us or mailed to: The Honorable Jaclyn A. Brilling Secretary New York State Public Service Commission Agency Building 3 Empire State Plaza Albany, NY 12223-1350 ### /news.cfm/id/86843 Creative Voice Development Group Wed, 10 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 4, 2011 MEDIA CONTACT: Carol E. Murphy, ACE NY 518-432-1405 cemurphy@aceny.org GOVERNOR CUOMO AND CLEAN ENERGY ADVOCATES CELEBRATE SIGNING OF POWER NY ACT Bill Encourages Development of Clean Energy Projects and Green Job Creation ALBANY, NY — Today the Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY) joined Governor Andrew M. Cuomo and other clean energy supporters at a bill signing ceremony celebrating the passage of the “Power NY Act of 2011,” which reinstates New York’s statewide power plant siting law, known as Article X. The Power NY Act also establishes an on-bill recovery mechanism for the “Green Jobs/Green New York” program and requires the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to prepare a study analyzing ways to increase the deployment of solar power in New York. “We applaud Governor Cuomo for signing the Power NY Act, which will have a dramatic positive impact on the state’s goal of providing affordable and clean energy, improving our environment, and creating jobs and economic growth through energy policy,” said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York. “The hallmark of this legislation is its comprehensive, streamlined process for siting new power plants, which at the same time provides strong environmental safeguards and a robust level of input from host communities and other stakeholders,” continued Ms. Murphy. “Such an improved process will ensure that development of new clean energy projects like wind farms moves forward in a timely manner and is ultimately met with success.” New York’s previous Article X law, which expired on January 1, 2003, allowed for the siting of “major” electric generating facilities, i.e., facilities sized 80 megawatts or larger, and was overseen by a multi-agency siting board that included public representatives. The Power NY Act renews the previous law and amends it to provide siting oversight for power plants in excess of 25 megawatts of energy, while also including strong protections for public participation, community impacts, and air quality effects. “Today’s ceremony sends a clear message to the clean energy industry that this state is genuinely committed to attracting investment and building its renewable energy portfolio,” said Tim Daniels, Senior Vice President for Market Development at Deepwater Wind and Chair of ACE NY’s Board of Directors. “We look forward to working with Governor Cuomo on continuing to bring green jobs in state and solidifying New York’s role as a leader in the nation’s clean energy economy.” In addition to its power plant siting provisions, the Power NY Act also encourages homeowners to reduce energy consumption by allowing them to repay loans used to make energy-efficient improvements to their homes through savings in their monthly utility bill. Furthermore, the bill’s directive to NYSERDA to conduct a solar energy study will support the state’s efforts to increase the use of solar energy and spur job creation in New York’s growing solar industry. ### 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 and energy efficiency technologies. www.aceny.org /news.cfm/id/86841 Creative Voice Development Group Thu, 04 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 23, 2011 MEDIA CONTACT: Carol E. Murphy, ACE NY 518-432-1405 cemurphy@aceny.org CLEAN ENERGY ADVOCATES PRAISE REENACTMENT OF POWER PLANT SITING LAW Renewed Article X Law Will Support Development of Renewable Energy Projects ALBANY, NY — The Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY) praised Governor Cuomo and members of the Legislature, especially Energy Chairs Senator George Maziarz and Assemblymember Kevin Cahill, for passing the “Power NY Act of 2011,” which reinstates New York’s statewide power plant siting law, known as Article X. “We commend Governor Cuomo and the Legislature for making Article X a top priority and working diligently to reach an agreement this session,” said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York. “A comprehensive, streamlined process for siting new power plants, especially for clean energy projects like wind farms, will have a dramatic positive impact on the state’s goal of providing affordable and reliable energy, improving our environment, and creating jobs and economic growth through energy policy.” New York’s previous Article X law, which expired on January 1, 2003, allowed for the siting of “major” electric generating facilities, i.e., facilities sized 80 megawatts or larger, and was overseen by a multi-agency siting board that included public representatives. The legislation passed yesterday renews the previous Article X law and amends it to provide siting oversight for power plants in excess of 25 megawatts of energy, and includes strong protections for public participation, community impacts, and air quality effects. “Since the original Article X law expired, New York State’s complex energy bureaucracy has made it cumbersome to meet the state’s clean energy goals,” Ms. Murphy said. “The renewal of Article X marks an important step forward in reform of the state’s regulatory policies for renewable energy projects so that unnecessary delays and uncertainty do not prevent developers from investing in New York’s clean energy economy.” ### 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 and energy efficiency technologies. www.aceny.org /news.cfm/id/86824 Creative Voice Development Group Thu, 23 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 3, 2011 CONTACT: Carol E. Murphy, ACE NY, 518-432-1405 NEW YORK STATE MAKES PROGRESS TOWARD CLEAN ENERGY GOALS Governor Cuomo Signs Bill Easing Interconnection Regulations for On-Site Renewable Energy Systems State Announces $191 Million for Renewable Portfolio Standard Project Awards ALBANY, NY -- The Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY), a broad coalition of clean energy advocates, today saluted Governor Andrew M. Cuomo for signing into law legislation that significantly broadens the opportunity for New Yorkers to install on-site renewable energy generating systems by allowing the use of remote net metering. Under the leadership of Senate Energy Chair George Maziarz and Assembly Energy Chair Kevin Cahill, along with Assembly bill sponsor Marcus Crespo, the remote net metering bill passed both houses earlier this year. With remote net metering provisions in place, farm and non-residential utility customers who install renewable energy systems will no longer be required to have that system directly physically connected to the site of energy use in order to receive a billing credit for the energy produced. The new statute also accounts for customers with multiple electric meters. "Governor Cuomo's signing of this legislation is an important step forward in continually improving and expanding the opportunities for New York to build its clean energy economy, and we commend and appreciate his endorsement," said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York. "The ability to remotely net meter is essential in making renewable energy a viable option for customers whose energy resource may not be located directly adjacent to where electricity is used. We see this scenario with farms, municipalities, and school districts, and those are just the types of customers who can particularly benefit from having greater control over energy costs via an on-site renewable energy system." Under existing net metering law, New York's utilities are required to provide for the interconnection and net energy metering of wind, solar and farm waste generating equipment, which allows the owner of such systems to receive a credit on his or her utility bill for any unused power supplied to the electric grid. The credit then offsets the power received from the grid when the customer consumes more energy than the system is generating. Previously, a customer's renewable energy system needed to be physically connected to an electric meter in order to net meter, and the customer's generating credit could only be reflected at a single meter. In some cases it is not practical or possible to use electricity on the immediate site where it is produced. Additionally, customers with multiple meters for multiple buildings and facilities were not able to utilize the renewable energy they produced at more than one site of electricity consumption. In both scenarios, the inability to remotely net meter potentially undermines the cost-saving benefits of on-site renewable energy systems. "This latest improvement to New York's net metering law means even more farms and businesses, as well as municipalities and school districts, will be able to utilize any renewable energy resources they have on hand," said Senator George Maziarz, bill sponsor and Chair of the Senate Energy and Telecommunications Committee. "Being able to install a renewable energy system is an environmentally-friendly way to take control of energy costs, which is a critical factor in building strong local economies." Bill sponsor Assemblyman Marcus Crespo said, "Remote net metering lets utility customers with on-site renewable energy systems more practically and effectively displace their energy needs. Because of that, generating systems like rooftop solar arrays will now become a truly viable option for a number of New York's schools and businesses seeking to counter rising energy costs and reduce their environmental impact." "This legislation marks another important step toward making solar and wind systems a cost effective solution for businesses and not-for-profits," said Assemblymember Kevin Cahill, Chair of the Assembly Energy Committee. "Net metering is boosting our renewable energy industry and creating jobs for installing and maintaining these systems. As a state, we are embracing the many environmental, public health, economic development and energy security benefits of clean on-site generation." Meanwhile, Governor Cuomo also announced that the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) and the Public Service Commission (PSC) have awarded $191 million to 17 renewable energy power projects across the state via the Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) program. Following the announcement, Ms. Murphy offered the following statement: "We are highly encouraged by this milestone in the RPS program and commend Governor Cuomo for his continued support of growing New York's clean energy portfolio. The returns this investment will bring in terms of economic development and environmental benefits couldn't come at a better time, and we look forward to seeing the RPS program gain even more momentum as we near the 2015 target date." "We would also like to congratulate the ACE NY member companies receiving contract awards in this round: Brookfield Renewable Power, EverPower, Horizon Wind Energy, and Invenergy. Their contributions to building New York's clean energy economy are very much appreciated." The selected projects include four wind projects, four hydroelectric projects, seven landfill gas-to-electricity projects, and two anaerobic digester projects located at dairy farms. Once operational, the 17 projects will add 315 megawatts of renewable capacity to New York's generator resource base and produce about 1 million megawatt-hours per year of renewable energy, supplying enough clean energy to power approximately 145,000 homes per year. The RPS, which was established in 2004, sets a goal of generating 30 percent of New York's electricity from renewable sources by 2015. To date, the RPS has supported the development of 56 large-scale power projects, including 18 wind farms, 25 hydroelectric facility upgrades, eight landfill-gas projects, three power plants that will partially displace coal with biomass, and two anaerobic digester gas facilities. ### 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 and energy efficiency technologies. www.aceny.org /news.cfm/id/86812 Creative Voice Development Group Fri, 03 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 9, 2011 CONTACT: Carol E. Murphy, 518-701-9085 REMOTE NET METERING PASSES BOTH HOUSES Legislature Approves Bill Allowing Farm and Non-Residential Customers to Remotely Net Meter Renewable Energy Systems ALBANY, NY -- The Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY) announced today that the State Senate and Assembly have passed legislation amending New York's net metering laws, which were expanded in 2008 to give non-residential customers the ability to net meter renewable power generating systems of up to two megawatts in size. The amendment (S.3407A/A.6270B), sponsored by Senator George Maziarz and Assemblyman Marcus Crespo, lets farm and non-residential customers more efficiently utilize renewable energy resources by allowing the use of remote net-metering when their generating equipment is not immediately adjacent to the location of their energy use. "The Legislature made excellent progress when it updated New York's net metering law and significantly expanded the opportunity to harvest clean, renewable energy," said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York. "The amendment passed today means customers seeking to install renewable energy system will not be restricted if their electricity needs are not located in the same place as their renewable energy resource. This is especially important for agricultural customers, as well as municipalities and school districts, and we commend Assemblyman Crespo and Energy Chairs Cahill and Maziarz for making this bill a priority." New York's utilities are required to provide for the interconnection and net energy metering of wind, solar and farm waste generating equipment, which allows the owner of such systems to receive a credit on his or her utility bill for any unused power supplied to the electric grid. The credit then offsets the power received from the grid when the customer consumes more energy than the system is generating. Current net metering law requires the customer's electric meter to be physically connected to the generating system, and only accounts for the use of one meter. For some customers it is not practical or possible to use electricity on the immediate site where it is produced. In other cases, customers who have multiple meters for multiple buildings and facilities are not able to utilize the renewable energy they produce at more than one site of electricity consumption. With this amendment, farm and non-residential customers will be able to generate electricity at one location and obtain credit for the electricity produced at another location. As a result, agricultural enterprises, small businesses, municipalities and school districts throughout the state will be able to employ remote metering to fully utilize their renewable energy resources and better control their energy costs. In addition to acting as a hedge against rising energy costs and reducing overall stress on the electric grid, on-site renewable energy systems also provide numerous environmental, public health, and economic development benefits to local communities. Senator George Maziarz, bill sponsor and Chair of the Senate Energy and Telecommunications Committee said, "By continuing to improve the effectiveness of New York's net metering law, more farms and businesses, as well as municipalities and school districts, will be able to take full advantage of the energy saving opportunities associated with on-site renewable energy. We know that reducing energy costs is a fundamental part of promoting increased economic activity in our state, and the legislation passed today will help us accomplish that goal in an environmentally conscious way." Bill sponsor Assemblyman Marcus Crespo said, "This bill will help increase the number of New Yorkers generating their own clean, renewable electricity by eliminating a great deal of red tape when it comes to net metering. As a result, renewable energy systems will become a much more economical option for businesses and schools looking to better control their energy use and reduce carbon footprints. It's a win-win for the environment and economy at a time when we need it most." "This legislation marks another important step toward making solar and wind systems a cost effective solution for businesses and not-for-profits," said Assemblymember Kevin Cahill, Chair of the Assembly Energy Committee. "Net metering is boosting our renewable energy industry and creating jobs for installing and maintaining these systems. As a state, we are embracing the many environmental, public health, economic development and energy security benefits of clean on-site generation." /news.cfm/id/86796 Creative Voice Development Group Mon, 09 May 2011 00:00:00 EST COALITION CALLS FOR PASSAGE OF THE NEW YORK SOLAR JOBS ACT Solar Act Would Expand New York's Solar Market, Create Jobs and Economic Opportunity for New York Residents Albany, New York -- April 12, 2011 -- Joined by bill sponsor Assemblymember Steven Englebright (D-Setauket) and bill co-sponsor and Energy Committee Chair Assemblymember Kevin Cahill (D-Ulster, Dutchess), a diverse coalition of business, environmental and public health organizations called for the passage of the New York Solar Industry Development and Jobs Act of 2011 (Solar Jobs Act: A.5713/S.4178). This bi-partisan legislation, sponsored by George Maziarz (R-C, Newfane) in the Senate, would develop a robust solar power market in New York State to drive local job and economic opportunity and secure a leadership position in the growing global renewable energy industry. Once a leader in solar development, New York has fallen behind neighboring states like New Jersey. Despite tremendous in-state growth potential and a good solar resource, New York's installed solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity currently represents less than 3% of the national share, or approximately 54 megawatts (MW). By comparison, New Jersey installed more than twice that amount of new solar in 2010 alone. To reverse this trend, the Solar Jobs Act provides an effective framework for long-term solar market growth and job creation in New York. In its current form, the bill would: Develop 5,000 MW of solar PV, which would provide enough safe, reliable renewable electricity to power 500,000 average households. Create tens of thousands of new high quality jobs, from manufacturing and design to construction and operation. Generate a multi-billion dollar boost in wages and economic output that could be reinvested in New York’s economy. Deliver maximum solar benefits at minimum cost to New York electricity consumers. Decrease the state’s production of harmful emissions by reducing the need for fossil fuel based electricity generation, especially at times of peak energy demand. "The Solar Industry Development and Jobs Act will move New York to the forefront of our nation’s growing solar industry," said Assemblymember Englebright. "The proposed legislation will provide quality jobs for New Yorkers and decrease our dependence on increasingly expensive fossil fuels while improving our standard of living through cleaner air for everyone." "New York has a huge untapped potential for solar energy, particularly in the hot summer months when electricity demand peaks," said Assemblymember Cahill. "This innovative program compliments our already successful efforts at promoting wind, biomass and hydro power. It is a cost effective solution that will allow us to meet our energy needs with clean, renewable power while creating new economic opportunities throughout the State." "An investment in New York solar is an investment in the New York economy, upstate and downstate alike. Today, our state is losing jobs and investment over our borders to neighbors like New Jersey that have stronger solar policies in place. This bill would put New York back on top and harness our state’s solar economic potential," said Carol Murphy, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York, Inc. (ACE NY), an Albany-based nonprofit dedicated to promoting clean energy and energy efficiency. "The timing for action on this bill is ideal given the declining cost of solar, increased costs of fossil fuels and availability of federal tax credits," said Carrie Hitt, President of The Solar Alliance, a state-focused association of solar equipment manufacturers, integrators, and financiers. "Not only would New York residents benefit from improved pricing in the industry, but the state would also be well-positioned to attract significant solar investment." "Senator Maziarz and Assemblymembers Englebright and Cahill are taking bold bi-partisan leadership now to ensure a bright future for generations of New Yorkers," said Shaun Chapman, Director of East Coast Campaigns for the Vote Solar Initiative, a national grassroots solar advocacy organization. "These common sense solutions — creating new clean energy jobs for New York through our homegrown solar energy resource — will benefit New York today, tomorrow and for decades to come." "Let the sun shine and let the energy flow! Harnessing the power of the sun to generate clean, renewable solar power will help put New Yorkers back to work and keep energy dollars working for our state’s economy," said Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director of Citizens Campaign for the Environment. "The sky is the limit when it comes to New York’s solar potential, and it’s high time that we tapped into that potential. We thank Senator Maziarz and Assemblyman Englebright for their leadership, and urge both houses to pass the bill as soon as possible." "This is an important bill for the future of New York’s economy – providing the right framework to build a world-class solar industry right here in the Empire State – with benefits including tens of thousands of new job opportunities, consumer energy savings and helping to clean our environment," said Pierre Bull, Policy Analyst for the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC). "Increasing the use of solar energy reduces the air pollution that limits people’s ability to breathe," said Irwin Berlin, MD, board chair of the American Lung Association in New York. "The Lung Association strongly supports this bill, which will clean our air, help New Yorkers breathe easier and improve lung health." The New York Solar Jobs Act is supported by a broad coalition, including: ACE NY, the American Lung Association in New York, Citizens Campaign for the Environment, Environmental Advocates of New York, Environment New York, New York Interfaith Power and Light, New York League of Conservation Voters, New York Solar Energy Industries Association, NRDC, Pace Climate and Energy Center, Physicians for Social Responsibility – New York Chapter, Renewable Energy Long Island, Solar Alliance, Solar One and the Vote Solar Initiative. Click here for more information about the Solar Jobs Act. PRESS CONTACT: rosalind@votesolar.org /news.cfm/id/86787 Creative Voice Development Group Tue, 12 Apr 2011 00:00:00 EST FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 7, 2011 CONTACT: Carol E. Murphy, (518) 432-1405 STATEMENT FROM CAROL E. MURPHY, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF ACE NY, ON $57.5M FEDERAL GRANT AWARDED TO HIGH-TECH SOLAR PARTNERSHIP ALBANY, NY - Following the recent announcement that the University at Albany's College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering has been awarded $57.5 million by the federal Department of Energy to support the U.S. Photovoltaic Manufacturing Consortium (PVMC), Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY) provided the following statement: "The DOE's investment is exciting and welcome news for New York's solar energy industry. With SEMATECH and CNSE at the helm, the PVMC has the potential to place New York and the U.S. at the forefront of pioneering research and development in photovoltaic technologies. Not only will that bring major advancements to our domestic clean energy supply, but it also means the creation of new jobs and a revived manufacturing sector here in New York State and across the nation." "This announcement is especially well-timed as a broad coalition of clean energy, labor, investment and environmental groups are advocating for passage of the NYS Solar Industry Development and Jobs Act. This bill is designed to dramatically increase solar energy investment in New York, which will be a perfect complement to the PVMC by creating a robust in-state market for photovoltaic technologies." "If New York and the U.S. are going to compete successfully in the global clean energy race, investing in research, development and manufacturing is crucial. We commend the DOE for supporting this initiative and hope essential investments such as these, on both the state and federal level, will continue across all sectors of the clean energy economy. ACE NY and its members look forward to working with the Consortium and helping the Empire State become a worldwide leader in solar energy." /news.cfm/id/86785 Creative Voice Development Group Thu, 07 Apr 2011 00:00:00 EST