Statement from ACE NY on Governor Cuomo's State of the State Address...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
January 9, 2013

CONTACT:
Laura Lyman, (518) 432-1405, llyman@aceny.org


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 New York’s clean energy economy in today’s State of the State address.

“We are encouraged by the progress Governor Cuomo has made in his first two years in office,” said Valerie Strauss, Interim Executive Director of ACE NY.  “As the state moves forward with upgrading and improving our energy infrastructure, we appreciate the Governor’s recognition of the important role clean energy and energy efficiency have to play in modernizing and fortifying the electric grid, creating new jobs, and fostering a healthier environment.”

“The major storms and hurricanes of the past two years have demonstrated vulnerabilities in New York’s energy infrastructure. In order to effectively prepare for the future, investing in clean energy and reducing our overall energy consumption has to be part of the equation. We wholeheartedly agree with the Governor’s call for transmission upgrades, investment in smart grid technologies, and increasing incentives for clean distributed generation like fuel cell, solar and small wind systems. We also applaud the Governor for endorsing a Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) cap low enough to guarantee that we continue to reduce emissions below current levels.”

“Energy remains a complex and ever-changing landscape, and state policies must be flexible and forward-thinking in order to capture all the economic, public health and environmental benefits of clean power. The Governor’s proposal to create a NY Green Bank is an innovative approach to spurring greater investment in clean energy, and we look forward to working with the Cuomo administration on its successful development. Now is the time to extend and expand the state’s Renewable Portfolio Standard, including solar power and onshore and offshore wind energy, and we hope to see the Green Bank and all of New York’s clean energy programs complement and enhance one another in a way that facilitates full development of our renewable resources.”

“We commend Governor Cuomo’s appointment of Richard Kauffman to serve as Chairman for Energy Policy and Finance. Mr. Kauffman is a welcome addition to the Governor’s Cabinet and has an excellent opportunity to renew the state’s focus on clean tech industries. With the proper support, we strongly believe New York can and will become home to the nation’s leading clean 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

Statement from ACE NY on Public Service Commission Decision to Raise Central Hudson Net Metering Limit...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
October 18, 2012

CONTACT:
Carol E. Murphy, 518-432-1405, cemurphy@aceny.org


Albany, NY -- Following today's decision by the New York State Public Service Commission to triple the net metering limit for solar and other net-metered technologies in Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation's (Central Hudson) service territory, Carol E. Murphy, executive director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY), issued the following statement:

"We commend the Commission for acknowledging the widespread benefits of clean energy and recognizing that net metering is an essential policy for enabling customers to install on-site renewable energy systems. Upon initially reaching its net metering limit, Central Hudson informed installers and customers that it would not provide net metering for any new systems, but thanks to the advocacy efforts of ACE NY's members and supporters, including US Senator Charles Schumer and other state leaders, Central Hudson agreed to continue its net metering program while waiting for the Commission's formal decision."

"Now that Central Hudson's increased limit is official, we hope the Commission will proceed quickly and decisively in its review of the net metering caps of the other major utilities, especially in light of the goals of the NY-Sun Initiative and the Renewable Portfolio Standard, as well as the growing demand for net metering of other eligible technologies like micro-hydroelectric power and fuel cells. Both ACE NY and the New York State Energy Research & Development Authority asked that the limits be raised - if not eliminated entirely - for all utilities. We also believe it is imperative that the Department of Public Service begin monitoring the utilities' rate of interconnection for net-metered systems to avoid any adverse impact on installers or customers when limits are close to being reached in the future."


About Alliance for Clean Energy New York
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 Yorkýs premier advocate for the rapid adoption of renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies. www.aceny.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
October 17, 2012

CONTACT:
Carol E. Murphy, 518-432-1405, cemurphy@aceny.org

Business, Environment & Energy Groups Call on Governor Cuomo to Seize Clean Energy Opportunity

09-13-2012

Contact: Melissa Andreychek, Environmental Advocates of New York, mandreychek@eany.org or (518) 462-5526 x239
David VanLuven, Environment New York, david@environmentnewyork.org or (518) 364-0246
Adrienne Esposito, Citizens Campaign for the Environment, aesposito@citizenscampaign.org or (631) 384-1378
Carol Murphy, Alliance for Clean Energy New York, cemurphy@aceny.org or (518) 701-9085

(ALBANY, NY)—New York State can create jobs while powering our homes and businesses with local, clean energy, but only if Governor Cuomo takes the right steps now, according to a new report released today by national and state business, environment, and energy groups. The Turning Point for Atlantic Offshore Wind Energy: Time for Action to Create Jobs, Reduce Pollution, Protect Wildlife & Secure America’s Energy Future details the economic and environmental benefits of offshore wind energy, the progress made to-date, potential obstacles to that progress, and a prosperous path forward.

“America’s Atlantic coast has some of the best offshore wind energy resources in the world, the technology to harvest it is ready right now, and we have workers ready to do the job,” said Catherine Bowes, the National Wildlife Federation’s senior manager for new energy solutions and lead author of the report. “We need to take advantage of this golden opportunity to make our electricity supply cleaner, more wildlife-friendly, and more secure.”

“The New York Building Congress is committed to advocating for an adequate supply of clean, cost-effective, and reliable power to support the continued growth of the New York City economy,” said Richard T. Anderson, New York Building Congress President. “Offshore wind can help the City achieve this goal as a realistic clean energy option, and an important untapped opportunity for the region’s construction and manufacturing industries.”

“The report provides a sound and comprehensive analysis of offshore U.S. wind energy markets, challenges, and recommendations to advance this important component in the nation’s overall energy strategy,” said Kevin Corbett, Vice President, AECOM. “More importantly, the report comes at a critical time as policymakers seek to expand the use of safe, environmentally friendly, reliable, and efficient energy sources to help meet the nation’s growing demand.”

“With progress short-circuited in Washington, New York has an unprecedented opportunity to lead the nation in clean energy,” 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 the kind of 21^st century jobs that New York State desperately needs. For the sake of our economy and environment, we urge Governor Cuomo, Senate Majority Leader Skelos, and Speaker Silver to support offshore wind energy in New York.”

Among the highlights of the report:

• Offshore wind energy will be an economic powerhouse for America. Harnessing the 52 gigawatts of Atlantic offshore wind energy – just 4 percent of the estimated generation potential of this massive resource – could generate $200 billion in economic activity, create 300,000 jobs, and sustain power for about 14 million homes. THe Great Lakes and New York State's Atlantic Coast have a combined 147 gigawatts of offshore wind potential, enough to generate electricity for all of New York's homes.
  
• New York is closer than ever to bringing offshore wind energy ashore.  Steady progress has been made over the last few years to make offshore wind energy a reality for New York, thanks to the active engagement of key public and private stakeholders. Several energy developers are planning projects off New York's coast, and it is estimated that turbines placed off the coast of New York City could generate 10 percent of the cities' electricity from offshore wind in the next 10 years.
  
• Despite this progress, leadership is urgently needed to ensure offshore wind energy becomes a reality in New York:
  • The New York Power Authority (NYPA) and the Long Island Power Authority (LIPA) must issue a request for proposals from wind developers for the Long Island–New York City Offshore Wind Project as soon as possible. This project is proposed for 350 megawatts of generation, with the ability to expand to 700 megawatts, giving it the potential to be the largest offshore wind project in the country. A 350 megawatt wind facility would displace about 540,000 tons of carbon dioxide (CO₂) annually, equivalent to removing 120,000 cars from local roads.
  • In response to its request for proposals from electricity suppliers, LIPA must establish a power purchase agreement with an offshore wind project closest to operation. LIPA is currently soliciting proposals to purchase 1,000 to 2,500 megawatts of new and/or repowered electricity from energy firms – a substantial opportunity to integrate local, clean offshore wind energy into New York’s energy mix.

“Installing wind turbines in the Atlantic Ocean can lead to a resurgence in New York’s port and related industries, help New York develop a sustainable economy for tomorrow, and create thousands of jobs in the next few years,” said David VanLuven, Executive Director of Environment New York. “This should be one of New York's top energy priorities.”

“Environmental, business, public health, and labor groups know the benefits of offshore wind: cleaner air, a stronger economy, and more jobs,” said Gordian Raacke, Executive Director of Renewable Energy Long Island. “This report makes it clear there is no time to waste investing in this abundant and locally available energy source.”

“Europe has been harnessing wind off its coast for more than two decades,” said Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director of Citizens Campaign for the Environment. “It’s time for New York to catch up. Under the leadership of Governor Cuomo, New York has the opportunity to put this proven technology to work for the economic and environmental benefit of the Empire State. More time lost hurts New York and our nation.”

“Offshore wind is ready for deployment, but the industry needs a clear signal that New York is committed to supporting this technology and investing in an advanced energy economy,” said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of Alliance for Clean Energy New York. “We strongly encourage our state’s leaders and policymakers to heed the recommendations of this report and ensure New York doesn't miss out on an important opportunity to expand its clean energy portfolio.”

“Deploying offshore wind is key – not only to reducing the pollution that is fouling our air and devastating our climate, but also to developing the renewable energy future needed to create a vibrant and sustainable economy,” said Ross Gould, Environmental Advocates of New York’s Air & Energy Program Director. “Governor Cuomo must take decisive action now to make New York a leader in offshore wind.”

“Offshore wind energy can generate explosive job growth, not just by putting up turbines but also loading ships, developing cutting edge technologies – the ripple effect goes right up the supply chain,” said Sail Van Nostrand, Chairman of Long Island Solar Energy Industries Association. “We can preserve the outdoor traditions that have made our coastal communities special while strengthening our economy, energy security, and environment for future generations.”

“On Long Island, we’re fortunate to live near the Ocean and the Sound, which is great for days at the beach and for developing clean, renewable energy for our homes and businesses, said Peter Gollon, Energy Chair for the Long Island Sierra Club. “Offshore wind is already a proven technology in Europe, and now New York could be the first state to bring this clean, safe, and reliable energy source to the U.S. It’s time for New York’s leaders to invest in offshore wind here and build a healthy, clean energy future for our kids.”

“Wind energy holds the promise of providing truly clean, dependable energy, while creating jobs right here in the U.S.,” said Bob DiBenedetto, President/Executive Director of HealthyPlanet. “It is one of the fastest growing forms of energy production, and when properly sited, has very little downside. On the other hand, we all pay the price for dirty fossil fuels. Most of that cost is, however, not reflected in our utility bills, but in the form of increased healthcare costs, water and air pollution, economic and geopolitical instability, and via the heavy burden of climate change to be borne by this and all future generations. Utility-scale wind power is affordable and the technology is available today. It's a win-win for all!”

The Turning Point for Atlantic Offshore Wind Energy: Time for Action to Create Jobs, Reduce Pollution, Protect Wildlife & Secure America’s Energy Future was released by Alliance for Clean Energy New York, Citizens Campaign for the Environment, Environment America, Environment New York, Environmental Advocates of New York, HealthyPlanet, Long Island Solar Energy Industries Association, National Wildlife Federation, New York Building Congress, New York League of Conservation Voters, New York Public Interest Research Group, Renewable Energy Long Island, and Sierra Club.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
August 6, 2012

CONTACT:
Carol E. Murphy, ACE NY
(518) 432-1405, cemurphy@aceny.org


ALBANY, NY—Today members and representatives of Alliance for Clean Energy New York, a statewide coalition dedicated to promoting clean energy and energy efficiency technologies, joined US Senator Charles Schumer in a call for improvements to New York’s regulatory mechanisms for on-site renewable energy generation, particularly targeting the need to raise limits on utilities’ net metering programs.

"We commend Senator Schumer for taking up this cause and supporting New York’s clean energy economy," said Carol E. Murphy, executive director of Alliance for Clean Energy New York. "Successful policies like net metering have been a driving force for growth in the solar and small wind industries, and letting them become entangled in red tape threatens to undermine the opportunities for increased investment and new jobs."

New York’s net metering law allows customers with an on-site renewable energy system to receive credits on their utility bills for any unused power supplied by the system to the electric grid. These systems provide customers with stable-priced clean power while supporting local businesses and green job creation. Utilities benefit from net metering by having reduced stress on the grid at times of peak demand. Without net metering, the financial attractiveness of investing in on-site clean power generation is severely reduced.

Each of the regulated utilities under the jurisdiction of the NYS Public Service Commission (PSC) has a cap on net-metered systems set by statute that the Commission can raise. In July, Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation surpassed its 12-megawatt limit on net-metered systems and issued a brief moratorium on its net metering program, which was lifted on August 3 while awaiting formal rulemaking by the Commission.

"We are pleased that Central Hudson has voluntarily elected to continue its net metering program, but the issue remains that customers and installers in every utility territory need long-term assurances," added Ms. Murphy. "Many renewable energy installers are small, local businesses that cannot survive without a continuous stream of projects, and a disruption of several months may very well drive some of them out of business."

"Considering that increasing the use of on-site renewable energy is necessary if we are to meet the State’s clean energy goals, especially those of the customer-sited tier of the Renewable Portfolio Standard and Governor Cuomo’s new NY-Sun program, crucial policies like net metering cannot have a start-and-stop nature. We need to anticipate growth and allow this industry to reach its full potential."


About ACE NY
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

For Immediate Release:
July 24, 2012

Contact:  
David VanLuven, Environment New York – 518-364-0246
Catherine Bowes, National Wildlife Federation – 802-272-1243
Peter Gollon, Long Island Sierra Club – 631-271-5774; cell 516-428-3768
Gordian Raacke, Renewable Energy Long Island – 516-313-6611

 

Albany, NY—Today, 217 environmentalists, clean energy advocates, businesses, and local and state officials from up and down the Atlantic Coast united to call for bold action to accelerate our efforts to generate electricity from offshore wind. The coalition released a letter to the Obama Administration in an effort to show strong support for efforts made to date and to urge continued action to develop offshore wind resources along the Atlantic.

"Tapping the vast reserves of wind energy off our coast will reduce pollution and ramp up our clean energy economy," said David VanLuven, Director of Environment New York. "This letter shows the broad agreement among a diversity of stakeholders that our state and national leaders should aggressively pursue offshore wind energy."

The letter notes the need for federal leadership to move away from fossil fuels that threaten our environment, public health, and national security.

"Offshore wind power can serve as a cornerstone for sustainable growth along the Eastern seaboard," 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 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 our nation's growing energy needs."

"Harnessing offshore wind protects scores of New Yorkers from the harmful effects of air pollution while cutting our share of climate-altering greenhouse gases from dirty fossil fuel-based electricity," said Ross Gould, Air & Energy Director of Environmental Advocates of New York. "Under current energy policy we favor the dirtiest forms of energy while letting pollution-free sources languish. We must end this folly and instead focus our attention on renewable sources such as offshore wind."

"Conservationists of all political stripes are united behind offshore wind energy as a winner for New York's wildlife, public health, and economy," said Catherine Bowes, the National Wildlife Federation’s Senior Manager for new energy solutions. "Clean energy solutions are critical to protecting our wildlife, fish, and natural resources for future generations of outdoor enthusiasts."

"Tapping into our abundant offshore wind energy resource will do more than just produce clean energy," said Gordian Raacke, Executive Director of Renewable Energy Long Island, a regional not-for-profit organization. "Developing offshore wind power will give us cleaner air, a stronger economy, and much needed jobs."

"Long Island is blessed with enormous potential for generating its electricity from non-polluting offshore wind – a resource that will last forever," noted Peter Gollon, Energy Chair of the Long Island Sierra Club. "It’s time we got started using it instead of burning fossil fuel that we have to import from somewhere else."

While much has been done along the Atlantic Coast, it is critical to build on the momentum of the last year and continue to prioritize environmentally sound development of our offshore wind energy resources. The coalition calls on the Obama Administration to:

• Support federal financial investments to spur offshore wind development;
• Set a bold goal for offshore wind in the Atlantic;
• Ensure that offshore wind projects are sited, constructed, and operated responsibly;
• Provide DOI and the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management with sufficient staff and resources; and
• Prioritize coordination to secure a market for offshore wind power.
  

"We stand together and ready to work with the Obama Administration and state officials to advance offshore wind as part of a comprehensive plan to put New York and America on a path to a truly clean energy future," concluded VanLuven.

The letter to President Obama can be read here: http://environmentamerica.org/resources/ame/offshore-wind-letter-president-obama

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
July 10, 2012

CONTACT:
Carol E. Murphy, 518-432-1405, cemurphy@aceny.org



ALBANY, NY  -- Today General Electric Co. Chairman and CEO Jeff Immelt visited the Capital Region to announce a new $70 million investment to expand GE's advanced manufacturing battery factory in Schenectady, effectively doubling production and adding 100 new jobs.  The Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY), a statewide coalition dedicated to promoting clean energy and energy efficiency technologies, offered the following response:

"We applaud GE for its continued investment in New York and look forward to the growth of its new energy storage business," said Carol E. Murphy, executive director of ACE NY.  "By increasing energy efficiency and the ability to work in concert with renewable energy technologies, advanced energy storage has a very important role to play in building a sustainable future. GE has consistently been at the forefront of innovation and job creation in New York's clean tech sector, and as a long-standing member of ACE NY, we appreciate their ongoing contributions to the state's clean energy economy."

"New York has already laid the groundwork for world-class research and development in clean energy and energy efficiency and, as GE has shown us, with strong support and coordination between the public and private sectors, manufacturing and commercialization of these advanced technologies is yet another opportunity for job creation and investment," continued Ms. Murphy.  "We hope GE's work in energy storage becomes just one of many clean tech success stories for the Capital Region and the state as a whole."


About ACE NY
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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 8, 2012

CONTACT:
Carol E. Murphy, 518-432-1405, cemurphy@aceny.org


 ALBANY, NY  -- President Barack Obama today visited the College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering in Albany, NY, highlighting sustainable job creation and high-tech manufacturing in the Empire State.  The Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY), a statewide coalition dedicated to promoting clean energy and energy efficiency technologies, welcomed the President and appreciated the opportunity to once again call attention to New York's progress in building an advanced energy economy.

"Today's visit from President Obama gives us a chance to recognize the clean energy industry's success thus far and look toward the future," said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of ACE NY.  "New York State and the Capital Region have seen job creation, private investment and cost savings for consumers as a result of investing in clean and sustainable energy technologies, and with strong and consistent support at all levels there are a number of economic development opportunities we can still tap into."

"We applaud President Obama's focus on creating jobs by investing in affordable clean energy and hope Congress heeds his call to pass legislation that will extend the Production Tax Credit and expand the 30 percent tax credit to investments in clean energy manufacturing," continued Ms. Murphy.  "These incentives are just the type of support that is needed to increase American manufacturing jobs and domestic clean energy investment, and will let regions like Tech Valley grow and thrive across the country."


About ACE NY
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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
April 26, 2012

MEDIA CONTACT:
Carol E. Murphy, 518-432-1405, cemurphy@aceny.org

(ALBANY, NY) — Following today's announcement from Governor Andrew M. Cuomo regarding a series of major new investments in clean energy and environmental projects, ACE NY Executive Director Carol E. Murphy provided the following statement:

"We applaud Governor Cuomo's recognition of the importance of investing in clean energy and energy efficiency. While we are all celebrating Earth Week, the initiatives announced today will have just as positive an impact on our state's economy as it will our environment.

NYPA's financing of energy efficiency upgrades is a cost-effective approach to improving the sustainability and environmental profile of state buildings and will result in significant savings for taxpayers. Furthermore, NYSERDA's support for the new solar and wind blade testing centers is an excellent opportunity to enhance New York's economy by making it easier for manufacturers to get their products to market. When combined with programs like the NY-Sun Initiative, these investments are strengthening New York's transition to an advanced energy economy and helping to solidify our status as a national leader and innovator."

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
April 19, 2012

CONTACT:
Carol E. Murphy, 518-701-9085, cemurphy@aceny.org


ALBANY, NY — Upon Governor Andrew M. Cuomo's launch of the NY-Sun Initiative to double the amount of customer-sited solar power installed annually in New York, and quadruple that amount by 2013, Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY), offered the following statement:

"Today's announcement is a boost for clean energy development in the Empire State, and we commend Governor Cuomo for his efforts to support New York's economy and environment by increasing the use of solar energy.

We look forward to seeing a successful NY-Sun Initiative serve as an impetus for continued investment in solar and our many other renewable energy resources. With thoughtful implementation and an eye towards long-term development, we hope this program marks yet another step towards New York becoming home to the nation's strongest and most vibrant clean energy economy."


About Alliance for Clean Energy New York
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

Groups Call on NYS Leaders to Stand Up for Clean Energy

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
January 4, 2012  

CONTACT:
Carol E. Murphy, 518-432-1405, cemurphy@aceny.org  


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

 

 

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."

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



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.  


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

For immediate release:
November 17, 2011

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.

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.



(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.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
October 28, 2011

CONTACT:
Carol E. Murphy, 518-432-1405


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

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


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

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

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


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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
August 4, 2011

MEDIA CONTACT:
Carol E. Murphy, ACE NY
518-432-1405
cemurphy@aceny.org


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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
June 23, 2011

MEDIA CONTACT:
Carol E. Murphy, ACE NY
518-432-1405
cemurphy@aceny.org



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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
June 3, 2011

CONTACT:
Carol E. Murphy, ACE NY, 518-432-1405


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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 9, 2011

CONTACT:
Carol E. Murphy, 518-701-9085

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."

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
April 7, 2011

CONTACT:
Carol E. Murphy, (518) 432-1405


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."

For immediate release: March 1, 2011

NYS REAPS BIG RETURN ON RGGI INVESTMENTS

(ALBANY, NY) -- According to a report released yesterday by RGGI, Inc., New York's role in the nation's first enforceable effort to reduce the pollution that is changing our climate is benefiting New York State in meaningful ways.

A statement follows from the Alliance for Clean Energy New York, American Lung Association in New York, Environmental Advocates of New York, Natural Resources Defense Council, New York Interfaith Power & Light, and Pace Energy & Climate Center:

"The Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative is creating jobs, saving New Yorkers money, keeping the energy grid stable by increasing energy efficiency, and making significant investments in clean energy.

"To date, New York State has invested $150 million from RGGI auctions, 80 percent of total auction revenue, in programs to benefit consumers. Much of these monies have gone to the Green Jobs Green New York program, which is anticipated to save New Yorkers $600 million in energy bill savings thanks to energy efficiency measures. The program will train 6,000 new workers to support an estimated 56,000 weatherization projects statewide.

"According to the report, RGGI investments have already benefited consumers in the 10 RGGI states by decreasing energy bills up to 30 percent. And in New York, the state is saving $3 to $4 for every RGGI dollar invested.

"New York is making smart investments with RGGI dollars. Investments that benefit consumers statewide while reducing air pollution.”

The 10 states participating in RGGI (Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont) have implemented the first market-based, mandatory cap-and-trade program in the U.S. to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from power plants.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
January 21, 2011  

CONTACT:
Carol E. Murphy, 518-432-1405                             
518-701-9085 (cell)    


ALBANY, NY – Today’s visit from President Barack Obama to the GE Energy plant in Schenectady, which is also home to GE’s renewable energy businesses, drew much attention and praise for the growing number of green collar jobs in the Capital District.  As a member of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY), GE Energy joins a number of local companies supporting the growth of a thriving clean energy industry in New York State.

“GE is a global leader in renewable technologies and we are thrilled to see the company receive this well-deserved recognition. Although not yet household names, ACE NY has a number of other member companies throughout the Capital District and the State who are also creating jobs locally and helping New York become a leader in the clean energy revolution,” said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY).   

“We think President Obama’s visit is an excellent opportunity to recognize the industry’s progress and look toward the future. The untapped opportunities for renewable energy and energy efficiency range all the way from research and development to education and training to manufacturing and operations. We look forward to seeing New York fulfill this vast potential and lead the nation in green job creation,” continued Ms. Murphy.  

One of New York’s primary drivers in the development of clean energy, the Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) program, also marked a major milestone this week with the announcement of $250 million available to new renewable generation facilities.  

“New York’s RPS program is a proven and successful approach to diversifying our energy portfolio while reducing fossil fuel usage and creating sustainable economic development opportunities. Seeing the program move forward is encouraging and sends an important signal that New York is committed to investing in renewable energy,” commented Ms. Murphy.  

The RPS goal mandates New York obtain 30 percent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2015, including both a Main Tier for large-scale generators and a Customer-Sited Tier for small-scale generation.  This week the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), which serves as the central procurement administrator for the RPS program, issued its sixth competitive solicitation in the Main Tier with approximately $250 million available.  NYSERDA also published a tentative schedule for future solicitations through 2013.  

As a result of solicitations issued to date, new renewable capacity supported by the RPS could reach nearly 1,562 MW by the end of 2012, putting progress toward the RPS target at 42% of the required 10.4 million MWh in 2015.  A mid-course program evaluation found the facilities selected in the first three solicitations are expected to yield approximately $2.1 billion dollars in direct economic benefits over a 20-year life span.  When broader economic effects are considered, total economic benefits reach more than $4.2 billion.  

 

ALBANY, NY (December 1, 2010) – Up and down the Atlantic coast, states and offshore wind developers are making significant progress in advancing offshore projects according to a new report. The report finds that up to six gigawatts (GW) of offshore wind projects have been proposed along the Atlantic coast—the equivalent of about five coal-fired power plants and enough to power about 1.5 million average U.S. homes. Based on government analysis, the Atlantic Ocean has significant offshore wind potential, with more than 212 GW of wind resources in shallow waters where current technology is best suited.

In New York, the report finds a total 37.4 GW of wind potential in shallow water, 15 GW of which are commercially viable when environmental and socioeconomic factors are taken into account. The report includes a chart for each state’s offshore wind resource, breaking down the data by water depth and distance offshore.

Featured in the report, the Long Island-NYC Offshore Wind Project is expected to solicit bids from private developers early next year. Transmission and environmental studies are being conducted, and the New York Power Authority has authorized the application for the lease of 64,500 acres of land beneath the Atlantic Ocean for development of the project in June 2010. When completed, the project’s initial generation capacity will be 350 megawatts (MW), enough power to supply 78,750 to 105,000 homes. Long Island-NYC Offshore Wind Project has the potential for expansion up to 700 MW.

Despite a great deal of capacity, the Long Island-NYC Offshore Wind Project is the only project of its kind advancing in New York State.

“Nine hundred and eighty four offshore wind turbines are spinning right now in Europe and not one in the Atlantic,” said Curtis Fisher, Offshore Wind Initiative Leader at the National Wildlife Federation. “The six gigawatts of proposed Atlantic offshore wind projects are a great start, but we need a coordinated and comprehensive effort of government and the market to bring these and other projects over the finish line in a way that values the precious Atlantic Ocean ecosystem and its fish and wildlife resources. This new industry holds great potential to create jobs, cut pollution, and reduce our reliance on dirty fossil fuels.”

The report, Offshore Wind in the Atlantic: Growing Momentum for Jobs, Energy Independence, Clean Air, and Wildlife Protection, makes the following key findings:

• Every state with significant offshore wind resources from Maine to Georgia has some taken some steps forward on offshore wind. Northern states (Maine to Maryland) have the most advanced projects while Southern states (Virginia to Georgia) are quickly mobilizing on a series of projects. See detailed chart and state profiles.
• The Atlantic’s shallow water characteristics combined with excellent wind speed make it an ideal location for offshore wind farms. 93 percent of offshore wind projects worldwide are in shallow waters (zero to 30 meters deep). Close to half of the United States’ shallow water offshore wind is along the Atlantic coast.
• While the most extensive European study concluded that offshore wind farms do not appear to have long-term or large-scale ecological impacts, major data gaps for the Atlantic Ocean still exist and site-specific impacts need to be evaluated. A coordinated, comprehensive, and well-funded effort is needed to address these gaps and improve the permitting process.
  

“The Long Island Power Authority is encouraged by the preliminary analysis of the LI-NYC
Offshore Wind Farm which demonstrates that a 350-700MW offshore wind project located 13-17 miles off the Rockaway Peninsula is technically feasible to integrate into our electric system,” said Michael Hervey, Chief Operating Officer. “We remain committed to not only continue with the next phase of the process, but also to bring this wind project to fruition provided it is cost effective for our customers. To address these cost issues, we need all interest groups to show their steadfast support for common sense clean energy policies that create jobs across the region and this commendable report by the National Wildlife Federation lays some of the groundwork to enable these types of projects to move forward.”

“I commend the National Wildlife Federation, the Citizen’s Campaign for the Environment and all those who worked hard to provide the public with facts and information regarding offshore wind turbines,” said Assemblyman Harvey Weisenberg, who has been closely following the issue.

“Building offshore wind farms in the Atlantic Ocean is a clear, definitive step in moving away from our dependence on fossil fuel. The benefit of a cleaner energy source is enhanced by the fact that it will create much needed jobs,” stated Nassau County Legislator Denise Ford.

“Offshore wind development presents a tremendous job creation opportunity for America,” stated Stewart Acuff, Chief of Staff at the Utility Union Workers of America AFL-CIO (UWUA). “In these difficult economic times, offshore wind is perhaps the most promising game in town to grow quality, high-paying jobs here at home. Our members stand ready and willing to take advantage of these new jobs and help lead America in this exciting new direction.”

“Atlantic wind is a clean job generator that will lessen our dependence on dirty fossil fuels. And if it’s done right, offshore wind development will have little impact on our precious coastlines and the New Yorkers who make their living from these waters,” said Ross Gould, Air & Energy Program Director, Environmental Advocates of New York.

“We need to accelerate our nation’s transition from an energy system doomed for failure to one that is sustainable. Fortunately, the east coast has a powerful offshore wind resource. Today’s decisions determine tomorrow’s energy plan. Our future lies in today’s political leaders, who need to stand up and say yes to wind. Offshore wind power can be real in America, just as it is in Europe if government, stakeholders and utility companies work together,” said Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director of Citizens Campaign for the Environment.

“We commend the National Wildlife Federation and its partners in the environmental community for highlighting the Atlantic states’ vast, untapped potential for offshore wind energy,” said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY). “In the effort to combat climate change, offshore wind energy has an important role to play in reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and helping to preserve the Atlantic Ocean's precious natural resources and wildlife. At the same time, we would be remiss if we didn’t recognize the major economic opportunity we have to create a homegrown offshore wind industry. While New York and many of its neighbors have made important strides in developing individual projects, with a clear vision and a concerted, organized effort in place, we can realize the full economic and environmental potential of offshore wind energy.”

“Long Islanders and New Yorkers are blessed with an abundant natural resource right here at our doorstep, yet we have not even begun to turn our powerful offshore breezes into urgently needed clean energy,” said Gordian Raacke, Executive Director of Renewable Energy Long Island, a regional not-for-profit organization. “While offshore wind farms are already powering the transition to low-carbon economies in Europe, New York and other Atlantic States are in a unique position not only to develop a significant clean energy supply but to create jobs and an offshore wind industry in the United States.”

“The Long Island Association has a long history of supporting clean energy programs, including the commercial deployment of the offshore wind,” stated Kevin Law, President, Long Island Association. “It is a well known fact that Long Island does not have many energy options. We can turn this fact into a positive with offshore wind by investing our hard-earned dollars in creating home-grown energy that will create jobs and stimulate economic growth rather than sending our dollars to other states which we import electricity from.”

The report was released along the coast today in conjunction with many national and state partners including environmental, sportsmen, labor, and business organizations. These groups call on the federal government to take the following steps:

• Improve the offshore wind permitting process,
• Identify ideal, high priority sites with limited resource conflicts off of the Atlantic for quick and thorough permitting,
• Invest in and speed research of offshore wind technology and environmental impacts,
• Coordinate planning with existing infrastructure and industries such as ports and fishing.
  

National and regional cosponsors include: Utility Workers Union of America, Environment America, National Audubon, Southern Alliance for Clean Energy, Conservation Law Foundation, and the Chesapeake Climate Action Network.

State cosponsors include: Maine: Natural Resources Council of Maine, Environment Maine, Maine Wind Industry Initiative; New Hampshire: Environment New Hampshire; Massachusetts: Mass Audubon, Environment Massachusetts, Environmental League of Massachusetts; Rhode Island: Environment Council of Rhode Island, Environment Rhode Island; New York: Renewable Energy Long Island, Citizens Campaign for the Environment, Environmental Advocates of New York, Alliance for Clean Energy New York, Environment New York; New Jersey: New Jersey Audubon, Environment New Jersey; Delaware: Delaware Nature Society, Clean Air Council, League of Women Voters; Maryland: Environment Maryland; Virginia: Virginia Conservation Network, Environment Virginia, Sierra Club Virginia; North Carolina: North Carolina Wildlife Federation, Environment North Carolina; South Carolina: South Carolina Wildlife Federation; Georgia: Georgia Wildlife Federation, Environment Georgia; and Florida: Florida Wildlife Federation, Environment Florida.

The National Wildlife Federation is America's largest conservation organization inspiring Americans to protect wildlife for our children's future.

Immediate Release:

December 1, 2010

Contacts:

Erica Ringewald, Environmental Advocates of New York, 518-210-9903, eringewald@eany.org

Gordian Raacke, Renewable Energy Long Island, 516-313-6611, reli@optonline.net

Adrienne Esposito, CCE, 516-390-7150 or 631-384-1378, aesposito@citizenscampaign.org

Carol E. Murphy, Alliance for Clean Energy New York, 518-432-1405 or 518-701-9085 (Cell), cemurphy@aceny.org

Tony Iallonardo, NWF senior communications manager, 202-797-6612, iallonardot@nwf.org

November 15, 2010  

CONTACT:
Carol E. Murphy, 518-432-1405  

 

ALBANY, NY—The Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY) announced today that Executive Director Carol E. Murphy has been selected by Governor-elect Andrew Cuomo to serve on his Environment and Energy and Recreation transition committee.  Ms. Murphy will be advising Mr. Cuomo and his aides as they recruit, review and recommend candidates to fill leadership positions in the energy and environmental arenas.  

“I am honored to have been selected by Governor-elect Cuomo to serve on the transition team and grateful for this opportunity to represent New York’s clean energy community and its environmental supporters,” said Ms. Murphy.  “While addressing the state’s fiscal situation will be a main focus initially, we know that Andrew Cuomo is committed to continuing the development of a sustainable energy infrastructure and New York’s renewable energy and efficiency industry represents major opportunities for both in-state economic development and environmental preservation.”  

“We look forward to assisting the new administration as they assemble the executive team who will work in support of the state’s renewable energy, energy efficiency, and climate change goals. Building on the energy and environmental proposals set forth in Governor-elect Cuomo’s campaign platform, the Empire State can and will become a national leader in the new green economy,” continued Ms. Murphy.  

Ms. Murphy previously served on the energy transition team of former Governor Eliot Spitzer.  She currently represents ACE NY on the Integration Advisory Panel of Governor David Paterson’s Climate Action Council, and was also a member of Governor Paterson’s Renewable Energy Task Force.  

ACE NY Board Members Marcia Bystryn, President of the New York League of Conservation Voters, Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director of Citizens Campaign for the Environment, and Ashok Gupta of the Air and Energy Program at the Natural Resources Defense Council, were also invited to serve on the transition committee.

ALBANY, NY - State policymakers, renewable energy advocates, energy technology leaders and more than one hundred attendees met recently in Albany to learn first-hand about how to tap into the promise, harness the potential, and overcome the challenges for clean energy technologies and sustainable communities at the Alliance for Clean Energy New York’s (ACE NY) fourth annual fall conference and membership meeting.  

“Despite New York’s continuing financial crisis, renewable energy and energy efficiency are still a bright spot and offer our best chance at reinvigorating the economy. In bringing together ACE NY’s members and supporters for a thoughtful discussion on the challenges and opportunities we face, this event has renewed our commitment and focus on growing New York’s clean energy industry in the year to come,” said Carol E. Murphy, ACE NY Executive Director.  

The conference included several presentations and expert panel discussions by energy thought leaders on topics including sustainable communities, project financing, and the future of solar energy and offshore wind initiatives in New York State.   

The conference also featured keynote addresses by Matt Guyette, Global Strategy & Marketing Leader for GE's Renewable Energy business and Frank Murray, President & CEO of NYSERDA.  

During the conference ACE NY presented its annual Sustainable Energy Leadership Awards, which recognize outstanding work in support of clean energy and energy efficiency. The Outstanding Government Leader Award was presented to the Town of Fenner in Madison County, the site of Fenner Wind Farm, one of New York’s first wind power projects, and the Fenner Renewable Energy Education (FREE) Center. Accepting the award on behalf of the Town of Fenner were Town Supervisor Russell Cary and Town Clerk Joanne Buyea. “The residents of Fenner are very proud of the wind farm and we’ve always felt that supporting it was just common sense. As a community we’ve made it a priority to share our experiences and educate others about renewable energy, and we appreciate being recognized by ACE NY for these efforts,” said Mr. Cary.  

The recipient of the Outstanding Industry Leader Award was The Delaney Group, a Tetra Tech company headquartered in Gloversville, New York. The Delaney Group was recognized for its role in the development of fourteen wind energy projects which have funneled over $90.6 million to the people and small businesses of New York State through salaries, purchases of materials, and services and subcontracts related to wind energy construction. “Our company is New York born and bred, and it means a great deal to us to be able to bring so much renewable energy to life and create much-needed jobs, as well as partner with groups like ACE NY and publicly support renewable energy projects across the state,” said Tim Delaney, President of the Delaney Group.   

The Outstanding Outreach Partner Award was presented to Eric Thumma of Iberdrola Renewables, for his exemplary outreach and education efforts on behalf of New York’s entire renewable energy community, and to Jamie Van Nostrand and Jackson Morris of the Pace Energy and Climate Center, for their tireless efforts in the area of clean energy education and policy research.  

On accepting his award Mr. Thumma commented, “I’m grateful for the opportunity to work closely with the staff and members of ACE NY. Educating policymakers and developing strong support for renewables is a crucial element of our mission, and I’m happy to have been of assistance in this capacity.”  

Mr. Van Nostrand, who was also named as the newest appointee to ACE NY’s Board of Directors, said, “I’m thankful for the recognition Pace has received and look forward to building on this progress through my new role at ACE NY.”   

(A complete library of photos from this event are available for review and download online. Please call Laura Lyman at 518-432-1405 for more information.)  

ALBANY, NY – The Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY) commends the New York State Independent System Operator (NYISO) on the findings in their recent study, entitled Growing Wind: NYISO 2010 Wind Generation Study. "This report is a welcome addition to our knowledge of the impacts of increased reliance on renewable resources," said Carol E. Murphy, ACE NY’s Executive Director. "We applaud the NYISO for its ongoing efforts to better utilize our abundant wind resources and ensure the continued growth of renewable power in New York State. Wind energy and other forms of renewable energy are among the most effective tools we have for reducing pollutant emissions and combating climate change, and at the same time they provide us with important economic development opportunities and increased energy security."

New York’s amount of installed wind generation capacity, which now totals 1,275 MW, has increased significantly since the state’s first commercial wind farms began operation in 2000. The NYISO has implemented a number of system and operating changes to accommodate this growth, including one of the nation’s first centralized wind forecasting systems.

Growing Wind: NYISO 2010 Wind Generation updates a 2004 report on wind integration, and was designed to conduct a comprehensive assessment of wind technology via a detailed technical study evaluating the impact of large-scale integration of wind generation on New York’s power grid. The study looks at the addition of 8,000 MW by 2018, with similarly aggressive interim MW additions.

"Further development of wind energy is essential if New York is to meet its Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) goal of having 30% of our electricity needs supplied by renewable resources by 2015," said Murphy. "We are very encouraged by the NYISO’s findings that the system is prepared to reliably accommodate significant amounts of wind power. Based on the current rate of growth New York will not reach the 8,000 MW figure by 2018, but with strong leadership and aggressive policies in support of both on- and off-shore wind project development, we can make major strides towards that milestone."

August 5, 2010

CONTACT:
Carol E. Murphy, 518-432-1405


The Alliance for Clean Energy New York commends gubernatorial candidate Andrew Cuomo for supporting clean energy and energy efficiency in his campaign platform. Both areas present significant environmental and economic opportunities that will benefit all New Yorkers.

We applaud his call for increased energy efficiency and the expansion of renewable resources. We strongly agree that policy makers, regulators, utilities, and private industry must join together to increase investment in these technologies. Further, by strengthening existing 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 become a leader in the green economy. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
June 24, 2010

ALBANY, NY —Today Senate Environmental Conservation Committee Chair Antoine Thompson (D-Buffalo) joined dozens of environmental advocates outside the Senate Chamber to call for a vote on the Global Warming Pollution Control Act, Senate Bill 4315-C. The legislation would set greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets at 80 percent below 1990 levels by the year 2050 and calls for the state to create a plan for how to adapt to the anticipated effects of climate change. The bill currently has 31 Senate sponsors from both conferences.

In light of the devastating oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico and lack of federal action on climate change, the time to set greenhouse gas emissions limits for New York State is now. Scientists say that emissions reductions targets in the range of 80 percent are necessary to avoid the worst effects of climate change. Passing the Global Warming Pollution Control Act would position New York on the forefront of the clean energy economy and secure its place as a leader on climate change.

Environmental groups praised Senator Thompson’s bold efforts to rally his colleagues in the Senate during the last days of session. Senator Thompson has called this bill a top priority and urges his colleagues to pass this legislation swiftly.

A similar version of the bill passed the State Assembly earlier this year and a companion bill (Assembly Bill 11507-B), sponsored by long-time environmental champion and Chair of the Assembly Environmental Conservation Committee, Robert K. Sweeney (D-Lindenhurst) is moving in that house.

"I am very pleased that Senator Thompson has actively moved legislation which I originally sponsored in 2008 which will require the DEC to establish rules with respect to limits on greenhouse emissions. Once again, I am urging bipartisan support from my colleagues in the New York State Legislature to do all they can to utilize all resources available to win the campaign to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This strict, science-based bill, limiting future greenhouse gas pollution, will create a strong foundation for future action, and will put the world on notice that New York State is ready to avert the most serious effects of climate change," said Senator Thomas Morahan. "The public debate on global warming is over except for the immediate need to act to curb greenhouse gas emissions." 

"While the nation is still reeling from the ongoing disaster in the Gulf as a result of our addiction to fossil fuels, I am proud that in our own state we have taken a bold step toward solving the long term problem of global warming with the passage of the Global Warming Pollution Control Act. The vigorous enforcement of this Act in the months and years to come must be but one part of the national and international effort to mitigate the effects of global warming on our children and grandchildren,” said Senator Eric Schneiderman.

The Global Warming Pollution Control Act is designated as a 2010 Super Bill, or high priority legislation chosen by the environmental community, which includes the leaders of more than a dozen of New York’s environmental organizations.

June 9, 2010

CONTACT:
Carol E. Murphy, 518-432-1405

Albany, NY – Since its inception, the Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY) has fostered and promoted cooperation between parties involved in the development of renewable energy projects.  Yesterday, Governor Paterson signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) and nine other east coast governors to create an Atlantic Offshore Wind Energy Consortium.  The Consortium will facilitate the partnership between the Atlantic states and DOI in the development of appropriate offshore wind energy projects.

This agreement comes shortly after a separate MOU was signed by the Long Island Power Authority (LIPA), Consolidated Edison (Con Ed) and the New York Power Authority (NYPA), agreeing to engage in pre-development activities and studies as this collaboration looks toward the proposed development of the Long Island – New York City (LI-/NYC) Offshore Wind Project.  This intrastate MOU marks the first regional partnership between these public and private utility service providers.

"Studies show our state has significant potential generating capacity along the Atlantic coast, especially in areas like New York City and Long Island that are facing growing electricity demand. We commend Governor Paterson for recognizing the opportunity at hand and ensuring that New York is well positioned to capitalize on the benefits of offshore wind."
 
"These partnerships will allow New York and its coastal neighbors to stay at the forefront of best practices and responsible development. The ultimate result of such agreements is to bring cost effective, environmentally compatible energy to New York consumers in a timely and strategic fashion," said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of ACE NY.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 11, 2010

CONTACTS:
Conor Bambrick, 518-455-4436
Elizabeth Nostrand, 518-455-4804

ASSEMBLY ENERGY COMMITTEE GIVES SOLAR ENERGY, JOBS A BIG BOOST

Bill Puts a Charge into New York’s Solar Energy Marketplace

ALBANY, NY - Assembly Energy Committee Chair Kevin Cahill (D-Ulster, Dutchess) announced the Energy Committee has passed legislation designed to make New York a leader in solar energy.  The Solar Industry Development and Jobs Act of 2010 (A.11004), sponsored by Assemblymember Steven Englebright (D-East Setauket), is a market-based approach that will accelerate investments in solar power throughout New York.

"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 at the same time strengthening our electric grid and reducing the need to run expensive peaking power plants."

"The advancement of this bill shows that New York recognizes the strategic importance and lasting benefits of solar development by moving to create an effective market support policy to bolster private investment and industry growth," said Assemblymember Englebright.  "This strong new solar initiative will create new jobs, increase energy independence, reduce global warming pollution, and improve electricity system reliability."

The Solar Jobs Act provides the scale and diversity needed for New York to tap an immense economic opportunity. The bill establishes a policy framework to achieve over 5,000 megawatts (MW) of solar power capacity by the year 2025 with interim targets of achieving 500 MW by 2015 and 1,500 MW by 2020.  This would solidify New York’s place among the nation’s leaders in the solar industry.  The legislation supports a broad diversity of business models, developers, system sizes and technologies so that growth can occur in all market segments.

The bill is designed to enable investment from multiple sectors to advance New York’s solar energy market.  Leveraging "patient capital" that utilities access through established low-cost financing, the program authorizes utilities to own and operate solar systems for the purpose of achieving up to 25 percent of the requirements in this bill.   Additionally, at least 20 percent of the solar energy must come from "small" retail customer-sited systems, and at least an additional 30 percent be derived from retail customer-sited installations of any size.  

The PSC, LIPA and NYPA must report annually to the Governor and Legislature on the progress of the program in meeting the established goals. Additionally, utilities must submit their solicitation and procurement plans for achieving their obligations to the PSC for review and approval. LIPA and NYPA must also submit plans for meeting their requirements to the Governor, Comptroller, and the Legislature while also making them make them publicly available.

"This bill will have a profound impact on New York's solar industry.  We have all the necessary resources for a strong solar market - plenty of sunshine, a diverse supply chain, and a capable workforce.  All we need is legislation to create a market," said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY).

"The Solar Jobs Act draws on proven best practices to establish New York as a real leader in the new energy economy. It’s a blueprint for solar growth designed to deliver job, electricity rate and environmental benefits to New Yorkers from Niagara Falls to Long Island," said Shaun Chapman, East Coast Campaigns Director for the Vote Solar Initiative, a national grassroots solar advocacy organization.

"If enacted, this landmark legislation would put New York State on the solar map.  The bill builds the kind of stable, long-term and significant solar market that will encourage companies like ours to make the same major investment in the local work force and operations that we’ve made in neighboring states," said Fred Zalcman, Managing Director of Government Affairs for Maryland-based SunEdison LLC, the world’s leading solar energy services provider.

"As one of the leading global solar companies, SunPower manufactures, designs and installs high-efficiency solar modules for residential, commercial, and utility-scale solar projects. This bill provides the foundations for sustained growth across all those market sectors -precisely the type of policy framework that attracts companies like ours to build a local workforce and invest in expanded operations in a state," said Jim Torpey, SunPower Corporation's Director of Market Development.

"This bill vaults New York to the forefront among states that are building strong local markets, bright spots of new economic opportunity and investment.  It sends a clear signal to companies like ours that New York – long considered the 'sleeping giant' of markets for solar energy in the US - is awakening and open for solar business," said Marc Roper, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Tioga Energy.

ACE NY is proud to announce that it’s Executive Director, Carol E. Murphy, has been awarded a 2010 Environmental Equinox Award from Citizens Campaign for the Environment (CCE).  The Equinox Awards are given to individuals that demonstrate extraordinary leadership in efforts to protect our environment and natural resources.

“I am deeply honored by this award but I truly accept it on behalf of our membership,” said Ms Murphy.  “Leading this organization allows me to advocate for a better New York but it is the work of our members that improves our environment on a daily basis.”

In choosing Ms. Murphy for this award, CCE commended Ms Murphy’s efforts to “reduce greenhouse gas emissions, advance renewable technologies and energy efficiency and promote meaningful legislation.”

The award will be presented on May 6th at CCE’s annual dinner.  Past recipients of the award have included Governor George Pataki, Congressman Steven Israel and NYPA President Richard Kessel.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
March 26, 2010

CONTACT:
Carol E. Murphy, 518-432-1405


ALBANY, NY – The Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY) commends yesterday’s ruling by the NYS Public Service Commission (PSC) on the customer-sited tier (CST) portion of the Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) proceeding.  Recently, ACE NY submitted detailed comments in the proceeding to ensure that the program would best serve all New Yorkers and continue to position New York as a leader in the clean energy arena.  While pleased to see the PSC acting on such an important statewide initiative, ACE NY was cautious about the funding levels authorized.

“This decision is a mixed blessing.  While it does advance the commitment to renewable energy, the level of funding established for some technologies may not meet the growing demand for on-site wind and solar systems across the State” said Carol E. Murphy, ACE NY’s Executive Director.

The RPS program provides the primary economic stimulus necessary to move New York towards its renewable energy and climate change goals.  Two promising elements of the decision were the inclusion of solar thermal technology and the establishment of a separate downstate program.
 
“This ruling is an important step towards solidifying New York’s clean energy economy.  When we look at other states, it is apparent that a sustained financial commitment is necessary for New York to truly become a national leader” added Ms. Murphy.

ACE NY will continue to work with the PSC, the staff members of the Department of Public Service and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to fully realize New York’s economic and environmental clean energy potential.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
March 5, 2010

CONTACT:
Valerie Strauss, 518-432-1405


ALBANY, NY – Today solar manufacturer Solartech Renewables, joined by Congressman Maurice Hinchey, Assemblyman Kevin Cahill, and the Solar Energy Consortium, announced its plan to open a new facility in the Hudson Valley’s Tech City campus as a result of a package of state and federal incentives.  The company will produce both standard and improved polycrystalline silicon solar panels and is expected to create hundreds of jobs over the next five years.

“Solartech Renewables’ decision to relocate its manufacturing operations in the Hudson Valley marks a significant milestone for New York’s clean energy economy,” said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY).  “We commend Assemblyman Cahill and our other state and federal leaders on this successful economic development effort. The Hudson Valley already benefits from a thriving solar community and Solartech will be an important addition to the growing industry there.”
 
“As today’s announcement demonstrates, the renewable energy supply chain presents us with an excellent opportunity to reinvent and reinvigorate our state’s manufacturing sector. To fully capitalize on this opportunity however, we need to build demand by growing the in-state market for clean energy through continuing and expanding New York’s existing incentive programs. The state and federal support for Solartech serves as a great example to follow, and we look forward to seeing many similar partnerships with clean energy manufacturers in the future,” stated Ms. Murphy.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
March 3, 2010

CONTACT:
Valerie Strauss, 518-432-1405

ALBANY, NY – In response to U.S. Senator Charles Schumer’s call for a moratorium on additional federal stimulus funding for renewable energy projects because of purchases from overseas suppliers, the Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY) provides the following statements:

“ACE NY shares the Senator’s goal of encouraging U.S.-based manufacturing of wind energy components but believes the best way to encourage domestic manufacturing is by creating robust market opportunities and enacting strong clean energy policies such as a national Renewable Electricity Standard (RES) and a cap and trade program for carbon emissions,” said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of ACE NY. “Consistency in federal and state programs – rather than stop and start funding streams – will build steady demand and enable U.S. manufacturers to retool to serve the clean energy industry. Creating additional uncertainty only adds risk to the market, which in turn places upward pressure on financing costs. This could increase the cost of projects or reduce the number of projects put into operation.”

“Furthermore, each new wind project built in the U.S. produces hundreds of construction jobs and dozens of permanent operations jobs, primarily in rural communities that have long lagged behind in terms of economic development opportunities. These projects also employ numerous consultants during their development, construction, and operation, including legal, engineering and environmental professionals, and contribute millions of dollars to local communities annually in land lease and property tax payments,” continued Ms. Murphy.

“Strong clean energy policies, rather than quotas or other domestic-content only mechanisms, will produce the desired result of increased investment in manufacturing capacity. With national long-term policies put in place to ensure the existence of a steady market for clean energy, the percentage of wind turbine value manufactured in the U.S. will increase naturally, especially as the cost of transporting the very large components of wind turbines can be more expensive than using components built locally. New York State itself is home to a number of struggling manufacturers that have been exploring opportunities in the clean energy sector; strong market-based policies are needed to provide the assurance of long-term growth in demand that will enable the renewable energy industry to rebuild our domestic manufacturing capability,” stated Ms. Murphy.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
February 22, 2010

CONTACTS:
Carol E. Murphy, ACE NY, 518-701-9085
Shaun Chapman, Vote Solar, 347-471-0874
Dereth Glance, CCE, 518-339-2853
Erica Ringewald, EANY, 518-462-5526 ext. 238
Dan Hendrick, NYLCV, 212-361-6350 ext. 206

NET METERING FIX PASSES BOTH HOUSES

Senate Approves Bill Allowing Non-Residential Customers to Net Meter Renewable Energy Systems

ALBANY, NY – A broad coalition of clean energy advocates announced today that the State Senate and Assembly have passed legislation fixing 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 (A.7557A/S.6700), which was one of Governor Paterson’s program bills and sponsored by Assemblyman Kevin Cahill and Senator George Maziarz, corrects restrictions in the 2008 law that prevented its original intent from being fulfilled.

“The Legislature made excellent progress when it updated New York’s net metering laws and gave all customers 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 the expanded net metering law will finally function as it was meant to and that millions of dollars in green energy systems can be installed. We commend the Governor and Energy Chairs for making this bill a priority.”

Net metering allows the owner of an on-site renewable energy system to receive a credit on his or her utility bill for any unused power supplied to the electric grid by the system.  The credit then offsets the power received from the grid when the customer consumes more energy than the system is generating.  In addition to acting as a hedge against rising energy costs and reducing overall stress on the electric grid, on-site renewable energy systems provide numerous environmental, public health, and economic development benefits to local communities.

Assemblyman Kevin Cahill, Chair of the Assembly Energy Committee said, “New York continues to embrace the many job-creating, public health, environmental and economic benefits of increased on-site generation. This shows what can be done when we roll up our sleeves and work in a bi-partisan manner to continue building a new energy economy.”

Senator George Maziarz, Chair of the Senate Energy and Telecommunications Committee said, “What we are doing today is fine tuning the 2008 law so businesses can take full advantage of the energy saving opportunities associated with net metering. This green technology is good for the environment, but, as businesses incorporating net metering will show, it is also good for our economy. Reducing energy costs is a fundamental part of promoting increased economic activity in the state.”

“This is a business friendly and environmentally friendly bill that will help lower the cost for businesses and create jobs,” said Senator Aubertine, Ranking Majority Member of the Senate’s Energy & Telecommunications Committee.  “This legislation balances the needs of farmers, business owners, and the power industry, with the need to be better stewards of our environment. If a business wants to put photovoltaic panels on their roof or a farm is prepared to turn their waste into energy, net metering empowers these businesses to see that investment pays off with significantly reduced energy bills.”

In 2008, the New York State Legislature voted to expand net metering to commercial customers with wind and solar electric systems of up to two megawatts in size, and to increase the size of wind and farm waste systems that farmers can net meter up to 500 kilowatts.  Prior to this expansion, net metering was only available for small residential and farm service installations.  Technical language in the 2008 law unintentionally restricted the size of the systems non-residential customers could net meter to well below the two megawatt maximum in the bill, and thus prevented many commercial customers from installing systems sized appropriately for their energy needs.

“Net metering is the policy backbone of a strong rooftop solar energy market. By putting clean energy to work for New Yorkers, net metering helps put New Yorkers back to work,” said Shaun Chapman, East Coast Campaigns Director for Vote Solar.  “The new law passed today broadens access to critical solar consumer rights, in turn expanding New York's opportunity for green job creation, economic recovery and environmental benefit. I congratulate New York legislators and the bill's many supporters on successfully taking this step toward a brighter energy future in the Empire State.”

“This fix allows for accelerating the renewable energy revolution,” said Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director of Citizens Campaign for the Environment (CCE).  “Making net metering of on-site wind and solar systems more consumer friendly is a win-win for our environment and economy, while increasing our energy independence,” added Esposito.

“By passing legislation today that will encourage businesses to use clean energy, the State Senate is taking a big step toward creating New York’s clean energy economy,” said Ross Gould, Air & Energy Director, Environmental Advocates of New York (EANY). “Encouraging the use of clean solar and wind power through net metering makes dollars and sense. By expanding the size of solar and wind systems that New York business can install, companies will save money while reducing stress on our aging power grid.”

“The net metering bill the Senate passed today will help create jobs, clean our air and generate renewable energy right here in New York State,” said Marcia Bystryn, President of the New York League of Conservation Voters (NYLCV).  “We salute the Senate and Assembly for supporting this important measure and for working to restore New York's reputation as an environmental and clean energy leader.”

###

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

Vote Solar Initiative
The Vote Solar Initiative is a grassroots non-profit organization working to combat climate change and foster economic development by bringing solar energy into the mainstream. www.votesolar.org

Citizens Campaign for the Environment
Citizens Campaign for the Environment (CCE) empowers communities and advocates solutions to protect public health and our shared environment on behalf of our 80,000 members. www.citizenscampaign.org

Environmental Advocates of New York
Environmental Advocates of New York's mission is to protect our air, land, water and wildlife and the health of all New Yorkers. Based in Albany, we monitor state government, evaluate proposed laws, and champion policies and practices that will ensure the responsible stewardship of our shared environment. We work to support and strengthen the efforts of New York's environmental community and to make our state a national leader. The tax-exempt 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization is also the New York affiliate of the National Wildlife Federation. www.eany.org

New York League of Conservation Voters
The New York League of Conservation Voters (NYLCV) was founded in 1989 as a nonpartisan, policy-making and political action organization that works to make environmental protection a top priority with elected officials, decision makers, and voters by evaluating incumbent performance and endorsing and electing environmental leaders to office in New York State. www.nylcv.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
January 14, 2010

CONTACT:
Carol E. Murphy, 518-701-9085


ALBANY, NY - The Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY) today released the following statement regarding the awarding of $10 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding to seven solar energy companies to allow solar photovoltaic (PV) system installations at homes and businesses throughout New York State. Three of the seven companies that were selected - Alteris Renewables, Hudson Valley Clean Energy, and Solar Energy Systems - are member companies of ACE NY.

"Today's announcement is a testament to the strength and potential of New York's growing solar industry," said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of ACE NY. "In addition to increasing our state's supply of clean, renewable energy, investments such as these also work to support job creation and growth at our local businesses. We congratulate the ACE NY members who will be sharing in this award and look forward to seeing the environmental and economic development benefits of their success."  

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
December 15, 2009      

CONTACT:
Carol E. Murphy, 518-432-1405


ALBANY, NY – “I applaud Governor Paterson and the members of the State Energy Planning Board for their commitment to addressing the many energy challenges facing New Yorkers,” said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY). “Through their hard work the Planning Board has crafted a comprehensive document that outlines innovative strategies for increasing energy efficiency, fostering the growth of our homegrown renewable energy resources, and making much-needed investments in our aging energy infrastructure.”

“ACE NY commends the Planning Board for recognizing that New York must develop its existing renewable energy resources and use energy as efficiently as possible if we are to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and provide a secure, affordable energy supply for the future. We have already laid the ground work for development of a robust renewable energy portfolio, and the policy initiatives outlined in the Plan will help us ensure our efforts are successful.”

“ACE NY fully supports the Governor’s “45 by 15” initiative and increasing the target goal of the Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) program to thirty percent. The RPS has already proven itself to be a highly successful mechanism for increasing renewable generation and spurring economic development and job creation, and a comprehensive State Energy Plan would not be complete without commitment to a strong RPS program. Energy efficiency is another crucial component of this initiative, and we further commend the Plan’s strategic emphasis on efficiency, expanding demand response programs and investing in smart grid technologies.”

“In addition to the broad-scale policy initiatives outlined in the Plan, there are also important opportunities for engaging local communities and individuals. ACE NY encourages successful implementation of New York’s net metering laws and the use of other innovative tools that will let New Yorkers take energy matters into their own hands through the ability to reduce their energy use and to produce clean, renewable energy on-site at homes and businesses.”

“Overall, the 2009 State Energy Plan is a timely look at New York State’s energy future. We look forward to working with the Governor, members of the Planning Board, and other stakeholders throughout the upcoming implementation phases and beyond to help New York lead the nation in pursuit of a clean energy economy.” 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
December 2, 2009

CONTACT:
Carol E. Murphy, 518-432-1405


ALBANY, NY - The Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY) today released the statement below on a U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory report on property values near wind energy projects. The report examines the impact wind power projects had on residential property values in nine different states and found that proximity to these projects does not have widespread negative impact on home values.

“The idea that wind energy projects reduce property values can be put to rest with the answers provided by this report—there is no widespread adverse effect from these facilities,” said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York. “Hopefully today’s report will help assuage any concerns homeowners across the state have regarding these projects and will help New York continue to develop and grow its clean energy sector. Wind power holds enormous potential for New York’s economy, particularly for upstate communities, and we must continue to invest in it if we want New York to have a cleaner, greener and more energy secure future.” 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
November 30, 3009

CONTACT:
Kate Slusark, 212-727-4592

NEW YORK, NY – A new website launched today simplifies the process for consumers to switch to clean, renewable energy in New York City, in a joint effort by the Natural Resources Defense Council and the Alliance for Clean Energy New York.

“Three clicks and you can make the switch from fossil fuels to clean energy,” said Brandi Colander, attorney in the Air and Energy Program at NRDC. “This website gives New Yorkers a tool to lead the way in repowering America, starting with their own homes and small businesses.”

Green Power NYC (http://www.greenpowernyc.com) allows residents and small business owners to select their desired type of clean power and energy provider. Then, after filling out a short form with their information, they can begin supporting wind and other renewable energy sources.

This program will help New Yorkers reduce carbon emissions, increase economic development in the clean energy sector, and avoid the construction of new fossil fuel power plants. It was made possible by a generous donation from the Wolfensohn Family Foundation.

“This new project is exciting for energy providers, environmentalists and New York City residents alike,” said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of ACE NY. “Our new website furthers our mission by making it easier for New Yorkers to use alternatives to dirty fossil fuels.”

“NRDC has led the way for decades, and is leading again by offering a proven way for electric customers to promote wind power here in New York, through the ConEdison Solutions WIND Power Program,” said Brent Alderfer, President of Community Energy, Inc., ConEdison Solutions’ green power partner.

“With the launch of Green Power NYC, millions more New Yorkers can discover that clean, renewable energy is an easy, affordable option that’s good for the environment, good for the economy, and good for increased energy security and independence,” said Mel Jones, Sterling Planet president and chief executive officer. “Sterling Planet is honored to serve Green Power NYC as a provider, bringing our pristine renewable energy supply from wind and water projects to the heart of the vibrant Big Apple, to the energized city that never sleeps. For daily pocket change, New Yorkers can now ‘renew’ their electricity using homegrown energy that makes it easy to enjoy modern comforts today without potentially compromising the lifestyles of future generations.”


The Natural Resources Defense Council is a national, nonprofit organization of scientists, lawyers and environmental specialists dedicated to protecting public health and the environment. Founded in 1970, NRDC has 1.2 million members and online activists, served from offices in New York, Washington, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Beijing.

The mission of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York is to promote the use of clean, renewable electricity technologies and energy efficiency in New York State, in order to increase energy diversity and security, boost economic development, improve public health, and reduce air pollution.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
November 5, 2009

CONTACT:
Vanessa Baird-Streeter
Office: 516-719-9230
Cell: 516-640-0168
Media Pager: 516-525-LIPA
Email: media.relations@lipower.org

CONTACT:
Albert Harsch
Phone: 631-779-4004
Fax: 631-462-5200
Email: aharsch@e2sys.com  
www.e2sys.com
 

PECONIC, NY—The Long Island Power Authority (LIPA) in partnership with Osprey’s Dominion Vineyard and Eastern Energy Systems (E2sys) today celebrated the ground breaking for the first Wind Power turbine located at a vineyard on Long Island at Osprey’s Dominion Vineyard in Peconic, Long Island.

Osprey’s Dominion Vineyard commissioned Eastern Energy Systems, Inc. to install a 20k wind turbine at their North Fork winery in the Town of Southold. This will be LIPA’s first Farm Service turbine, undertaken through the Backyard Wind Initiative created this year. The wind turbine is expected to produce an estimated 42,802 kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity per year for an annual energy savings of $7,918. The projected total cost of the project is $144,000. A LIPA rebate of $69,401 is anticipated, significantly off-setting the expense for the system. Osprey Dominion Vineyard may further reduce the cost of the system via a Federal tax incentive and by selling the excess electric energy produced back to LIPA.

“LIPA is excited to be breaking ground for our first wind power turbine on a farm undertaken through our Backyard Wind Initiative,” said LIPA President and CEO Kevin S. Law. “The installation of backyard wind turbines on Long Island will not only provide clean safe energy but it will help residential and commercial property owners, including the agricultural community, lower their bills. It is our hope that the Backyard Wind Program will succeed in transforming the wind industry just as LIPA’s Solar Pioneer program helped transform the solar industry on Long Island moving Long Island away from fossil fuels and creating more clean energy jobs.”

“E2sys, is raising the bar for the future of wind technology on Long Island by installing the first 20K wind turbine for a commercial application,” said E2sys Director of Corporate Relations, Al Harsch, “Due to the LIPA Wind Rebate program and federal tax incentives, this turbine offers tremendous benefits for business owners to operate cost effectively, while providing educational and career opportunities for Long Island.” Jeffrey Lang, VP of E2sys, added, “This is the first of many wind projects on Long Island that we have lined up for the future.”

“I have been an advocate of green energy and I am excited to see the Backyard Wind Initiative beginning to take root. This groundbreaking program will help local businesses save money on their energy bills, while protecting the environment and reducing Long Island’s dependence on fossil fuels. I applaud LIPA and Osprey’s Dominion for their commitment to the environment, and I encourage other local businesses to follow in their footsteps and take advantage of this program,” said Assemblyman Marc Alessi.

“The Town of Southold is very excited to see alternative energy utilized within the region’s dynamic industry of wine production, said Southold Town Supervisor, Scott Russell. “Congratulations to LIPA, Osprey’s Dominion Vineyard, and Eastern Energy Systems for breaking ground to install the first winds power turbine and developing innovative and sustainable energy in the town of Southold.”

“Osprey’s Dominion was the first winery on Long Island to power their ground’s maintenance equipment with biodiesel fuels, and have been doing so since 1999. With the help of the LIPA Backyard Wind rebate, the installation of this turbine is the next step towards our environmentally conscious vision,” said Bud Koehler, owner of Osprey Dominion Vineyard. Osprey’s Dominion will be hosting a gala Ribbon Cutting event this coming spring of 2010, and are currently planning the release of their first bottle of a limited edition “FLIGHT” wine, the first wine made with wind power.

“Combine Long Island’s reliable breezes with some open fields and LIPA’s new wind incentives and you get a powerful energy cocktail,” said Gordian Raacke, Executive Director of Renewable Energy Long Island (RELI). “I wouldn’t be surprised if folks will soon visit this visionary vineyard not only for its locally grown grapes but to learn how wind turbines allow us to harvest another valuable and local product.”

LIPA has made a 10 year, $924 million dollar commitment to investing in energy efficiency and renewable technologies under its Efficiency Long Island program (ELI) which offers a wide array of incentives, rebates and initiatives to LIPA’s residential and commercial customers to assist in reducing their energy usage and thereby lowering electric bills.

“American people and businesses are eager to put in place power solutions of their own, and a small or backyard system is a great way to do so,” said AWEA CEO Denise Bode. “Demand for small wind turbines is growing at record rates, and these systems are a source of clean, inexhaustible power that provides electricity benefits for their owners and environmental benefits for us all.”

"We commend LIPA's efforts to support New York's clean energy economy with innovative programs like the Backyard Wind Initiative," said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York. "We've seen elsewhere in our state that implementing renewable technologies is an effective, proven approach to reducing reliance on fossil fuels and providing fixed price energy to consumers, and we look forward to seeing other Long Island businesses follow the lead of Osprey's Dominion Vineyard and take advantage of all the economic and environmental benefits that renewable energy has to offer."

“I commend Kevin Law and LIPA for recognizing the importance of wind power," said Joe Gergela, Executive Director for the Long Island Farm Bureau. "In these challenging economic times, the savings achieved from wind power will help those in the farming community to lower their bills while providing clean energy that is environmentally responsible."

LIPA’s Backyard Wind Initiative was introduced in January 2009. The program provides rebates to homeowners, businesses, municipalities, and non-for-profits seeking to harness power from the wind through the use of land-based wind turbines. In addition, program participants may be eligible for a 30% Federal tax credit. This program is consistent with Governor Patterson’s “45 X 15” program which establishes the goal of New York State meeting 45% of its electricity needs through improved energy efficiency and renewable sources by the year 2015.

The rebate for new residential wind installations for 2009 will be rebated at the lesser of $3.50 per kilowatt hour (kWh) for the first 16,000 kWh or 60% of the total installed cost, with a maximum rebate equal to $56,000. New commercial installations will be rebated at the lesser of $3.50 per kWh for the first 16,000 kWh and $0.50 per kWh thereafter up to a maximum of 175,200 kWh or 60% of the total installed cost with a maximum rebate equal to $135,600. New municipality and non-for-profit installations will be rebated at the lesser of $4.50 per kWh for the first 16,000 kWh and $1.50 kWh thereafter up to a maximum of 101,333 kWh or 60% of the installed cost with a maximum rebate of $200,000.

A total of $1.2 million was committed to the wind initiative in the LIPA operating budget for 2009 and is proposed to increase to almost $2 million in 2010. The wind power initiative is an expansion of the utility’s successful Solar Pioneer program which has rebated over $52.5 million on the installation of over 2100 photovoltaic or "PV” systems since its inception in 2000.

To learn more on LIPA’s Efficiency Long Island, Backyard Wind Initiative and other efficiency and renewable programs, visit the LIPA Web site at http://www.lipower.org/efficiency/renewables.html.


LIPA, a non-profit municipal electric provider, owns the retail electric Transmission and Distribution System on Long Island and provides electric service to more than 1.1 million customers in Nassau and Suffolk counties and the Rockaway Peninsula in Queens. LIPA is the 2nd largest municipal electric utility in the nation in terms of electric revenues, 3rd largest in terms of customers served and the 7th largest in terms of electricity delivered. In 2006, LIPA outperformed all other overhead electric utilities in New York State in all three major reliability categories. LIPA does not provide natural gas service or own any on-island generating assets. More information about LIPA can be found online at: http://www.lipower.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
October 21, 2009                                                          

CONTACT:
Carol E. Murphy, 518-432-1405
David Nachtweih, 646-789-7685

ENERGY LEADERS AND ADVOCATES DISCUSS THE SMART GRID AND GREEN ENERGY SUPPLY CHAIN

Alliance for Clean Energy New York Presents Sustainable Energy Leadership Awards

ALBANY, NY – State policy leaders and clean energy advocates met in Albany over the past two days to discuss transmission and the green energy supply chain in New York at the Alliance for Clean Energy New York’s (ACE NY) third annual fall conference. 

“It is imperative that New York step up to the challenge of climate change and take advantage of the strong federal leadership on creation of a clean energy economy in order to reap economic rewards for all New Yorkers,” said Carol E. Murphy, ACE NY Executive Director. “Two critical needs for a green energy economy are a smarter transmission grid that can effectively deliver clean energy from new sources and a green energy supply chain capable of meeting the sector’s demand for resources and labor.”

The conference featured keynote addresses by Gil Quiniones, COO of the New York Power Authority and Kimberly Harriman, Governor David Paterson's Assistant Secretary for Energy. In addition, a group of smart grid transmission and supply chain experts, including representatives from the US DOE, National Grid, the Long Island Power Authority, BP Solar, AWEA, and the Natural Resources Defense Council, made presentations.

During the conference, ACE NY also recognized several companies and individuals with Sustainable Energy Leadership Awards for their work on clean energy in concert with ACE NY. Local environmental attorneys Douglas Ward and Dean Sommer received awards along with Jeff Irish of Hudson Valley Clean Energy (a solar system installer) and Kevin Schulte, on behalf of Sustainable Energy Developments (a wind turbine installer).

“For New York to truly realize the potential of its green economy, it will need far-sighted and dedicated leadership in government and the private sector, and so we’ve expanded our leadership awards to include some of those key leaders in the business community,” said ACE NY Board Chair Bruce Bailey, President of AWS Truewind. “From the legal assistance to ACE NY provided by Douglas Ward and Dean Sommer, to the work of Jeff Irish of Hudson Valley Clean Energy and Kevin Schulte of Sustainable Energy Development to bring affordable clean energy systems to homes and businesses across the state, these individuals and their companies have demonstrated true leadership and we are proud to honor them here today.” 

“I’m honored to be recognized by ACE NY, an organization I am very proud to be associated with,” said Douglas Ward. “New York is at a crossroads in its pursuit of clean and sustainable sources of energy.  To truly create a competitive and robust green energy economy, we all, each and every one of us, must contribute to the effort.”

“Addressing tomorrow’s energy needs while reducing our carbon footprint is one of the most fundamental questions this country faces,” said Dean Sommer. “We have the technology and the natural resources; now it’s simply a matter of political will. I am pleased to be able to help ACE NY in its efforts to make New York a leader in the emerging green economy.”

“I’m pleased to have been available to help ACE NY’s efforts to overcome the barriers to on-site renewable energy, and I look forward to continuing to work with ACE to broaden the market for solar energy and to ensure that state policy supports our growing green economy and all its local, high quality jobs,” said Jeff Irish.

"It is because of organizations like ACE NY that SED chose to call New York it's home when starting our company in 2002," said Kevin Schulte, CEO of SED. "The potential for wind projects in New York is abundant and along with ACE NY we have the ability to affect policy in this state that will make wind energy a part of everyday living."

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
July 29, 2009

CONTACT:
Stefan Friedman, 212-561-8730 / friedman@knickskd.com


ALBANY, NY - The Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY) today released the statement below at the conclusion of a months long dialogue with the office of Attorney General Andrew Cuomo on promoting transparency in wind energy development in New York State. Fourteen wind energy companies have signed a standardized set of development rules for wind developers and the local communities in which they operate. ACE NY and the office of the Attorney General worked with members of the wind energy industry over many months to craft these provisions that they hope will serve to both ensure public confidence in the integrity of wind energy development and allow New York to reap the benefits of this important clean energy technology.

"We believe the industry has risen to the challenge of good citizenship by committing to these rules and we hope these companies will continue to invest in New York, bringing needed jobs and clean energy to our economy," said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York.

"This set of guidelines incorporates best industry practices and sets a new standard of transparency and public integrity that goes far beyond existing state law and what other industries must comply with. ACE NY is hopeful that this public commitment to transparency will be a standard for all sectors engaging in development of New York State’s resources while enabling project development and investment to move forward." 

"Development of clean energy technologies is more important than ever in this troubled economy. Clean energy from wind, hydropower, solar, fuel cells and sustainable biomass help improve our environment and public health while providing substantial economic and energy security benefits for all New Yorkers. According to the most recent studies of New York's clean energy programs, the state could see upwards of 50,000 new jobs created, cleaner air and water, and for every $1 invested in clean energy a $6 return in direct benefits to its citizens."

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
June 1, 2009

CONTACT:
Carol E. Murphy, 518-701-9085
Additional spokespeople:
David Nachtweih, 212-561-8730, ext. 229
Dereth Glance, Citizens Campaign for the Environment, 518-339-2853


ALBANY, NY — A broad coalition of clean energy, environmental and farm advocates called on the State Legislature today to pass legislation sponsored by Assemblyman Kevin Cahill and Senator Antoine Thompson (A.7557/S.4993) to amend New York’s net metering law to allow non-residential customers to install renewable power generating systems of up to 2 megawatts, as the bi-partisan law passed last year originally intended. The coalition contends that it is imperative that the Legislature fix net metering this session to ensure the original intent of the law is realized, otherwise New Yorkers will see little to no benefit from net metering.

"New York had the best of intentions when it expanded our net metering law to cover nonresidential systems. However, the benefits of energy savings and green jobs have been undermined by unintentional restrictions in the law that are preventing non-residential customers from adopting these renewable technologies," said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY). "Fortunately there’s an easy solution to this issue, and we call on our elected leaders to pass the Cahill/Thompson bills that would lift these unnecessary restrictions."

Net metering is where a customer with an on-site renewable energy system receives a credit on their utility bill for any unused power supplied by their system to the electric grid. This offsets the power the customer receives from the grid when they are using more than their system is generating.

To remedy the current situation, Assemblyman Kevin A. Cahill and Senator Antoine M. Thompson have proposed amendments to eliminate these restrictions and allow non-residential customers to install systems up to 2 megawatts in size. The bills are A.7557 in the Assembly and S.4993 in the Senate.

Assemblyman Kevin Cahill, Chair of the Assembly Energy Committee, said, "Last year’s expansion of net-metering was supposed to be a victory for clean energy and the green economy. However, an interpretation of the law has undermined the intent, leading to arbitrary restrictions that have hindered investment in these renewable technologies. My legislation will eliminate these unnecessary provisions, giving customers the freedom to install wind and solar systems that meet their energy needs."

Senator George Maziarz said, "This legislation is in keeping with the spirit of the landmark law I sponsored last year to promote net metering. Our goal is to help businesses save on their electricity costs while also encouraging renewable technologies. If there are legal roadblocks that need to be removed, I'm glad to help remove them."

"This bill helps to expand the use of solar energy and increase the number of green collar jobs in New York State," stated Senator Antoine Thompson.

On-site renewable energy systems reduce overall stress on the electric grid, particularly during peak demand times, allow consumers to hedge volatile and rising energy costs, and provide environmental, public health, and economic development benefits. New York’s original net metering law allowed only residential or agricultural customers to participate. In 2008, the Legislature amended the law to expand net metering to non-residential customers, including small and large businesses, non-profits like churches or community centers, and municipalities. However, language included in the legislation unintentionally restricted the size of the systems these non-residential customers could install to well below the 2 megawatt maximum in the bill. This is preventing many non-residential customers from installing appropriately sized systems for their energy needs.

Current language in the net metering law limits the size of the system a non-residential customer can install to its "peak load" — the most power the customer has used in a 15-minute span or, for those without such measurements, to systems even smaller than residential systems. Since renewable energy systems, like wind and solar, only produce during a portion of the day they often need to be larger than a customer’s peak load if they are to meet a significant portion of annual energy use and be cost effective to install. Under the current law, most non-commercial systems are restricted to 10 kilowatts or less rather than the 2,000 kilowatts (equal to 2 megawatts) specified.

"The Public Service Commission failed the public by undercutting the bi-partisan legislation to allow net metering of clean renewable energy for the masses," said Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director for Citizens Campaign for the Environment. "We applaud Senator Thompson and Assemblyman Cahill for their leadership and call on the Legislature to fix net metering to benefit the environment, promote green local jobs, and reduce transmission congestion and constraint now," Esposito added.

"Fixing New York’s net metering law to ensure that the state’s businesses can install appropriately sized clean energy systems will reduce New York’s carbon footprint. This legislation would also provide a needed boost to the state’s emerging solar and wind power industries, increasing the number of green jobs that are so vital to our economic recovery," said Jackson Morris, Air & Energy Associate for Environmental Advocates of New York. "There’s no downside to a net metering fix."

"New York Farm Bureau strongly supported the net-metering expansion enacted last year to develop behind the meter renewable energy sources for wind, solar and farm digesters," said Jeff Williams, Deputy Director of the Division of Public Policy, New York Farm Bureau. "The needed legislative changes put forth by Senator Thompson and Assemblyman Cahill in S.4993/A. 7557 this legislative session would help increase the amount of renewable energy made available for net metering in New York and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. We look forward to passage of these bills this session."

"The New York State Conference of Mayors supports a sensible state energy policy which creates incentives for the use of renewable energy technologies for municipalities, homes and businesses," said Peter A. Baynes, Executive Director. "Net metering is an important component of such policy, but current law does not permit certain customers, including New York’s local governments, to fully exercise their ability to invest in renewable energy systems. Many of our members are leading the fight to combat global climate change and reduce our nation’s dependence on foreign oil. To assist them in these efforts, NYCOM encourages the State Legislature to pass this bill so that local governments will have the same net metering opportunities as residential customers."

"The New York Solar Energy Industries Association (NYSEIA) and our over 120 members that represent solar manufacturing, design and installation companies throughout the state urge the passage of this simple yet important legislation - amending the current net-metering law to allow all non-residential customers up to 2MW in capacity and eliminating any other restrictions," said John Siciliani, NYSEIA Executive Director, "It's essential to the growth of our industry and the green energy jobs our members are poised to create."

"The present commercial net metering law is severely flawed based on its present peak load language," said Michael Stangl, Chief Executive Officer of Renewable Power Systems, LLC. Since the law’s implementation by the Public Service Commission (PSC), our company has been approached by over thirty commercial business, municipalities, volunteer fire departments, churches, etc. expressing interest in a photovoltaic (solar) electric system for their buildings. In the majority of the cases, these potential users of clean energy have decided not to proceed with a solar installation due the limits put on them by the peak load language. The peak load language has nothing to do with a building’s energy usage."

"Net metering is a simple accounting mechanism that, if instituted properly, allows New Yorkers to get full, fair credit for the solar electricity they generate," said Shaun Chapman of the Vote Solar Initiative. "This process has been easily implemented in dozens of other states with great success. We would like to see the same for New York."

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

Citizens Campaign for the Environment
Citizens Campaign for the Environment (CCE) empowers communities and advocates solutions to protect public health and our shared environment on behalf of our 80,000 members. www.citizenscampaign.org

Environmental Advocates of New York
Environmental Advocates of New York's mission is to protect our air, land, water and wildlife and the health of all New Yorkers. Based in Albany, we monitor state government, evaluate proposed laws, and champion policies and practices that will ensure the responsible stewardship of our shared environment. We work to support and strengthen the efforts of New York's environmental community and to make our state a national leader. The tax-exempt 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization is also the New York affiliate of the National Wildlife Federation. www.eany.org

New York Farm Bureau
New York Farm Bureau is the statewide lobbying/trade organization that represents thousands of member families. Its members and the public know the organization as "The Voice of New York Agriculture." New York Farm Bureau is dedicated to solving the economic and public policy issues challenging the agricultural community. www.nyfb.org

The New York State Conference of Mayors and Municipal Officials (NYCOM)
NYCOM is an association of, and for, cities and villages in New York. Since 1910, NYCOM has united local government officials in an active statewide network. NYCOM is an advocate for city and village interests in the state legislature and with state agencies; a readily accessible source of practical information touching upon every area of municipal activity; and a leader in the ongoing training and education of local officials. From training programs to legislative advocacy to inquiry handling, NYCOM assists village officials in providing essential services in a cost effective manner. www.nycom.org

New York Solar Energy Industries Association
The New York Solar Energy Industries Association (NYSEIA) is the trade organization
representing the solar energy industry in New York State. NYSEIA's membership is comprised of over 120 companies and individuals who represent all sectors of the industry and are committed to working on a collective basis to expand solar electric and thermal markets in the state and region. NYSEIA actively supports progressive state policies intended the further the accelerated deployment of solar technologies or reduce barriers that prevent their adoption. www.nyseia.org

Vote Solar Initiative
Vote Solar is a non-profit grassroots organization working to fight climate change and foster
economic opportunity by bringing solar energy into the mainstream. Since 2002 Vote Solar has engaged in state, local and federal advocacy campaigns to remove regulatory barriers and implement the key policies needed to bring solar to scale. www.votesolar.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
April 22, 2009

CONTACT:
Connie M. Cullen, 914-390-8196
Connie.Cullen@nypa.gov

BUFFALO, NY — In recognition of the celebration of Earth Day, New York Power Authority (NYPA) President and Chief Executive Officer Richard M. Kessel today announced a major public-private initiative for the potential development of wind power projects in the New York State waters of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario.

NYPA today released a Request for Expressions of Interest (RFEI) to initiate efforts to develop offshore wind projects in the Great Lakes.  A Request for Proposals (RFP) to examine technical issues related to the viability of such projects is expected to be released before the end of the month.

To carry out the initiative known as the Great Lakes Offshore Wind Project, NYPA, with the support of wind power proponents including National Grid, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, state and local environmental organizations, wind power developers and the University of Buffalo, is gathering a wide range of environmental, economic development, technical, financial and other information to serve as the foundation for the possible installation of wind power projects by one or more private wind power developers, sized to a minimum of 120 megawatts.

Governor David A. Paterson said:  “We have an opportunity to ensure that New York is the national leader in the clean energy economy, which will create thousands of jobs across the state.  To get there, we must take full advantage of our natural resources, including hydropower, solar, and wind.  I have set the goal for New York to meet 45 percent of our electricity needs through renewable power by 2015.  Harnessing the power of wind is critical to achieving that goal and the Great Lakes Offshore Wind Project will help us reach it.”

This project is in support of a key recommendation made by Governor David A. Paterson’s Renewable Energy Task Force to commit to realizing the potential of wind energy by addressing local siting and permitting issues, and conducting studies to address transmission and infrastructure limitations.

Richard Kessel, president and chief executive officer of NYPA, said:  “Earth Day provides the perfect moment to launch the largest commercial-scale wind power initiative for the Great Lakes.  In recognition of NYPA’s commitment to the environment and support of Governor David A. Paterson’s ‘45 by 15’ goal, the Great Lakes Offshore Wind Project has the promise to bring more clean, renewable energy to upstate homes and businesses, and greater prosperity through wind industry jobs.”

Michael J. Townsend, chairman of NYPA’s board of trustees, said:  “With over 70 percent of NYPA’s electricity generated by clean renewable hydropower, the Power Authority has always been at the forefront of the development of clean energy sources. The magnitude of the Great Lakes Offshore Wind Project has the potential to not only provide power but also many green collar jobs for the construction, operation and maintenance of wind power facilities.”

The first step in the initiative was taken today when NYPA issued the RFEI for environmental, economic development, technical, operational, socio-economic, financial, and other information from the wind power industry.  This information will assist NYPA in determining the feasibility of taking the next step of preparing a wind power development RFP which, if issued, would be expected to result in high-quality proposals for the construction of wind generating projects.

NYPA intends to hold public and community forums to gather input as the Great Lakes Offshore Wind Project initiative proceeds.

In parallel to the RFEI process, NYPA will arrange, through the RFP on technical issues, to have siting studies conducted to ascertain optimum areas for locating Great Lakes Offshore Wind Projects.  The studies will review the wind resource, impacts on birds, visibility, vessel traffic, and lake bottom conditions. It is anticipated the results of the studies will be included in the RFP.

It is expected this power will be sold to NYPA and others for resale to upstate customers.

The RFEI can be accessed on the NYPA website at www.nypa.gov/GreatLakesWindRFEI.htm or look for the link on the home page (www.nypa.gov).  The deadline for receipt of RFEI proposals is June 15, 2009.

Questions and comments about the Great Lakes Offshore Wind Project initiative can be emailed to info@nypa.gov.

 

STATEMENTS IN SUPPORT

Jonathan F. Foster, vice chairman of NYPA's board of trustees, said:  “In late 2008, the United States became the world leader in wind energy production.  Our state, New York, was one of the leading states in adding wind capacity last year.  With the Great Lakes Offshore Wind Project, the Power Authority will pursue additional opportunities to give Western New York a competitive edge in developing workforce training and other assets to attract the growing wind power industry.”

Elise Cusack, NYPA trustee, said:  “Through the Great Lakes Offshore Wind Project, Western New York should be confident that the Power Authority and its supporters will do their due diligence to ensure the right wind projects go forward, which meet the environmental and economic concerns of our communities and our region.”

D. Patrick Curley, NYPA trustee, said:  “Since the New York Power Authority gleans so much of its inertia from the earth’s predominant component, water, it is fitting that the Power Authority be part of today’s Earth Day Celebration and I am personally delighted with our participation.”

Paul A. Dyster, mayor, City of Niagara Falls, said:  “While the 21st Century holds challenges for us in this region, it clearly holds enormous opportunity as well.  If we are successful in harnessing wind power without compromising the quality of our environment, we will become a national leader in advancing green employment.  Developing this new source of renewable energy can and should deliver tangible long-term economic benefits to the region.”

State Senator Antoine M. Thompson said:  “I am dedicated to making Western New York a leader for ‘green’ initiatives and the green economy.  The potential for offshore wind in the Great Lakes is enormous and should be used to our environmental and economic advantage.”

State Senator William T. Stachowski said:  “We believe the Great Lakes Offshore Wind Project has tremendous energy potential for upstate New York.  This initiative is particularly exciting because science has shown us the ways that properly harnessed wind power can cut energy costs, reduce our dependence on foreign oil, and protect public health and the environment by reducing pollution.  In addition, this growing industry has the potential to create thousands of jobs in New York.  My colleagues and I will continue to make this important project a priority.”

Tom King, president of National Grid in the U.S., said:  “Addressing climate change and fostering a diversity of energy supply will require looking at all options to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.  National Grid is pleased to join the New York Power Authority in supporting this comprehensive information gathering initiative to explore the potential of wind energy along the Great Lakes.”

Pete Grannis, commissioner, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, said:  “Wind is a low-carbon, renewable fuel source that will play a significant role in New York's push for a clean energy economy.  We look forward to working with the Power Authority as this initiative goes forward to ensure that any Great Lakes wind projects are carried out in an environmentally-sound way.”

Ashok Gupta, senior energy economist, Natural Resources Defense Council, said:  “NRDC strongly supports increased use of wind energy and commends NYPA for its announcement today.  The technology for producing electricity from wind energy has improved greatly over the past twenty years, and wind -- on- and offshore -- now represents one of the most promising sources of emissions free electricity.  Indeed, offshore wind power is probably the region’s largest untapped renewable energy resource.  Developing this resource is essential to help reduce pollution that threatens public health and our climate.”

Brian Smith, WNY program director, Citizens Campaign for the Environment, said:  “The Great Lakes Offshore Wind Project sends the critical message that large scale energy production doesn't have to come from polluting fossil fuels but rather it can be obtained from renewable, clean, homegrown sources such as wind.  Our nation's wind-rich Great Lakes have the potential to generate renewable energy that will help combat climate change, drive economic development and promote energy independence.  Now the Great Lakes can be great for one more reason.  Congratulations to NYPA and Governor Paterson for thinking outside the barrel.”

Terry L. Yonker, current chair of the Great Lakes Wind Collaborative Steering Committee, said:  “The announcement by NYPA is a clear sign that the development of wind power offshore is becoming attractive as a way to meet future green energy demands in the Great Lakes region.  NYPA is positioned to strategically move such a project forward and has the capacity within its system to balance the wind power output.  The Great Lakes Wind Collaborative is a U.S.-Canadian group that works to further its collective understanding to resolve environmental, capacity, transmission, and sustainability issues surrounding the development of wind power all across the Great Lakes region.  The membership of the GLWC is drawn from U.S. and Canadian federal agencies, all eight Great Lakes states and two Canadian provinces, as well as municipal, environmental, and industry sectors.  The potential for wind power development in the Great Lakes is very large and could significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the entire region, the world's third largest economy.  But we also need to work cooperatively to insure that wind power development on the Great Lakes is environmentally sound and economically sustainable.”

Carol E. Murphy, executive director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York, said:  “Offshore wind energy would bring much-needed local jobs and economic activity to communities from Buffalo to Watertown, and it would further solidify New York's place as a clean energy leader.  We commend NYPA for launching this bold initiative and look forward to working with leaders across the state to make it a reality.”

About NYPA:

■ NYPA uses no tax money or state credit.  It finances its operations through the sale of bonds and revenues earned in large part through sales of electricity. ■ NYPA is a leader in promoting energy-efficiency, new energy technologies and electric transportation initiatives. ■ It is the nation’s largest state-owned electric utility, with 18 generating facilities in various parts of the state and more than 1,400 circuit-miles of transmission lines.  For more information, www.nypa.gov.

Background: Alternative energy is one of the buzz words of our time.  In some people's minds it's just that -- a buzz word based more on hype than reality.  To find out how real alternative energy is to New York's future, we interviewed Carol Murphy, executive director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

CONTACTS:
Carol E. Murphy, 518-432-1405
David Nachtweih, 212-561-8730 ext. 229


ALBANY, NY – A study released by the Center for Community Studies at Jefferson Community College has found that residents in Lewis County overwhelmingly support development of wind farms in their community.

The study, “The Second Annual Lewis County Survey of the Community,” found that 79% of residents support an expansion of wind farms in the county. The study also found that 70% of Lewis County residents believe wind farms have a positive impact on their community, while an additional 19% said it has had no impact. Only 5% viewed them as having a negative impact.

“This study shows us that support for wind energy runs broad and deep, and that host communities see direct benefits from the addition of clean energy resources that provide emission-free power for us all,” said Carol E. Murphy, executive director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York. “These results are particularly meaningful because they are based on the opinions of people who have lived within and around wind farms for several years now. Lewis County is at the forefront of New York’s clean energy sector, and it’s encouraging to see the vast majority of the area’s residents are invested in the industry’s continued growth.”

Lewis County is home to the 321 megawatt Maple Ridge wind farm, the largest wind farm east of the Mississippi and approximately a third of currently operating wind resources in New York. Over 35% of the respondents in the survey said that they could see wind turbines from their home. Support for wind farms was high among men and women, across age groups, income and education levels, and among both homeowners and renters.

Lewis County residents also expressed strong support for other clean energy resources, specifically hydropower and solar energy. New York’s clean energy sector has tremendous potential for expansion and could generate thousands of jobs statewide in the coming years.


For more information about the Jefferson Community College Center for Community Studies, visit http://www.sunyjefferson.edu/ccs/ccs_survey.html.

* ALLIANCE FOR CLEAN ENERGY NEW YORK * CITIZENS CAMPAIGN FOR THE ENVIRONMENT * ENVIRONMENTAL ADVOCATES OF NEW YORK * NATURAL RESOURCES DEFENSE COUNCIL * NEW YORK INTERFAITH POWER & LIGHT * NEW YORK LEAGUE OF CONSERVATION VOTERS * NEW YORK PUBLIC INTEREST RESEARCH GROUP * PACE ENERGY AND CLIMATE CENTER * RENEWABLE ENERGY LONG ISLAND * SIERRA CLUB ATLANTIC CHAPTER * VOTE SOLAR *   

February 10, 2009 (ALBANY, NY) — A coalition of environmental and energy groups from across New York sent state lawmakers a set of green energy principles today in an effort to address the triple threat posed by global warming, over-reliance on dirty fossil fuels, and high energy prices.

The energy principles were designed to guide New York’s energy policies during the 2009 Legislative Session. The groups stressed the critical role that state support for clean energy and energy efficiency could play in creating jobs and sparking economic development, thus bolstering New York’s flagging economy.

"New York has reached an energy crossroads. For too long flawed policies and short-sighted late-night decisions have led New York and the nation to an energy crisis," said Jackson Morris, Environmental Advocates of New York. "Changing the way we generate and distribute energy gives New York the chance to learn from past mistakes. The green energy principles we’ve crafted are the roadmap to a clean, sustainable and secure energy future." 

The green principles for sustainable energy policy include:

Reduce global warming pollution 80 percent by 2050 in order to meet the United Nation’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change reduction targets. Significant cuts in climate pollution in the short, medium, and long-term are necessary to avert the worst effects of global warming.

Increase energy efficiency. New York must prioritize increased energy efficiency and demand-side management. Capturing all cost-effective energy efficiency savings is the most economical means of reducing climate pollution and providing New Yorkers with the welcome relief of lower utility bills. In addition, distributed generation, smart grid and advanced metering technology should be pursued so that all New Yorkers can use energy more efficiently.  

Support clean energy. New York’s clean energy incentives and policies should support a broad range of technologies — wind, solar, geothermal, biomass/biofuels, fuel cells, tidal, etc. — and be directed at smaller, distributed systems as well as larger, central generating projects.

Improve energy infrastructure. Increasing transmission capacity by upgrading and improving our aging infrastructure is key to unlocking New York’s renewable resource potential and reducing the state’s greenhouse gas emissions.

Generate power closer to customers. Generating electricity closer to consumers is the most efficient energy delivery method, as it reduces energy losses that result from moving power over long distances.

Protect New York communities. Proposals for new polluting power plants must include a review of cumulative impacts to low-income communities and communities of color and respect any state or federal standards and guidelines concerning disproportionate impacts to low-income or minority populations.

Other than the current global economic crisis, few areas of public policy are currently receiving as much attention as the energy sector at both the state and national level. However, leaders from every place on the political spectrum, including President Barack Obama, recognize that changing the way we generate and distribute energy represents an enormous opportunity to jump-start the economy. To maximize the benefits of clean, renewable energy and energy efficiency, the basic green principles described above should be incorporated into all of New York’s future energy proposals. 

"We have put together these clean energy principles to illustrate the path State policy makers must take to help us ensure both a healthy planet and a robust economy," said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York. "The groups signing this document are united in the goal of protecting public health and the environment and making use of our in-state, renewable resources to power our homes and businesses; we invite policy makers to join us," continued Murphy.

"Our energy future is TODAY. We need to think outside the barrel," said Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director of Citizens Campaign for the Environment. "Now is the time for government to set our energy agenda, not the highest corporate bidder," she added.

"Want a serious boost to the State's economic engine? The low-hanging fruit in this energy roadmap is energy efficiency," said Norreida Reyes, Conservation Director for the Sierra Club Atlantic Chapter. "It's clean, affordable, and immediately accessible. Prioritizing efficiency on a large scale costs the least, will create jobs, and saves consumers money. Most importantly, it permanently reduces greenhouse gases in the most expedient way, helping us reach near-term carbon reduction targets that much faster."

"The current economic downturn creates an unprecedented opportunity to fundamentally reshape New York's energy sector," said Marcia Bystryn, president of the New York League of Conservation Voters. "By following these green energy principles, New York's elected leaders can help create good jobs, improve our environment and relieve our dependence on foreign sources of energy."

"During the Great Depression, New Yorkers got back to work with state investment in hydroelectric projects, resources that bring us our cheapest, cleanest power to this day. Now we're ready to see our state leaders support a new clean energy economy, one that delivers energy savings and creates high-quality jobs across sectors as varied as manufacturing, construction, engineering and financial services," said Shaun Chapman, Director of East Coast Campaigns for Vote Solar. "The policy roadmap we've outlined here will allow New York to turn clean energy promise into real economic and environmental benefit, today and for generations to come."

"We hope that these clean energy principles will help energy policy decision-makers shape a new green economy that is sustainable and just," said Nicola Coddington, Executive Director, New York Interfaith Power & Light.

"Scaling up clean energy investments quickly is the best job creating and economic growth strategy the State has available in the near term and the success or lack thereof in acting on this opportunity is what the Governor and the Legislature will and should be judged on this year," said Ashok Gupta, Air & Energy Program Director, Natural Resources Defense Council.

"New York needs to take swift and strong measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through aggressive energy conservation and efficiency programs and increasing power production from wind, solar, and other clean renewable sources," said Laura Haight, senior environmental associate with NYPIRG. "Focusing on clean energy technologies will not only benefit our health and our environment, it will help New York's economy and reduce our dependence on foreign fuels."

"This is a critical time in the energy industry, and it is essential that New York policy makers move toward a more sustainable path in the generation, transmission and distribution of energy," said James Van Nostrand, Executive Director of the Pace Energy and Climate Center. "With these principles, we have identified the essential elements of that sustainable path. Implementing these policies will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and also help New Yorkers reduce their utility bills."

The groups include the Alliance for Clean Energy New York, Citizens Campaign for the Environment, Environmental Advocates of New York, Natural Resources Defense Council, New York Interfaith Power & Light, New York League of Conservation Voters, New York Public Interest Research Group, Pace Energy and Climate Center, Renewable Energy Long Island, Sierra Club Atlantic Chapter and Vote Solar. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:     
January 30, 2009

CONTACT:         
Erica Ringewald, Environmental Advocates of New YorK, 518-210-9903

ALBANY, NY—In response to a lawsuit filed yesterday by Indeck Energy of Buffalo Grove, IL, environmental and energy groups rallied to defend the 10-state Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI). The RGGI, which went into effect on January 1st, is the nation’s first enforceable program to reduce the pollution that is changing the climate.

The RGGI is a critical piece of the Northeast’s overall strategy to address climate change, which includes energy conservation and generating a greater portion of energy from clean, renewable sources. Late last year, New York cleared the way to participate in a December auction of carbon dioxide (CO2) pollution permits. The RGGI regulatory framework will hold CO2 emissions constant through 2014, and then gradually reduce those levels.

Among other claims, the lawsuit filed by Indeck Energy claims that RGGI provides no opportunity for power plants that entered into long-term contracts to recover costs. Indeck Energy owns and operates six power plants in New York and five additional facilities in other Northeast states. RGGI states include Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Vermont and New York.

Public records show that Indeck’s claims were addressed during a multi-year public comment process of finalizing RGGI regulations. New York State’s Department of Environmental Conservation created a 1.5 million ton set-aside for power plants that entered into long-term contracts to address generators’ concerns.

"At every step of the way for the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, power plants have tried to slow down this process and this is one more example," said David Gahl, Environmental Advocates of New York. "New York State has responded to these concerns and now it's time to get with the program."

"Power generators with long-term contracts bargained a price based on provisions of their contracts. It's not the state’s role to renegotiate contracts for power plants or utility companies when they don't like the results. Rather than coming after New York State, perhaps they should go after their legal teams for negotiating a contract that won’t benefit their interests," said Luis G. Martínez, Energy Attorney, Natural Resources Defense Council.

"RGGI is the most important initiative in place in the United States today to limit carbon dioxide emissions from electric power plants, the largest source of global warming pollution in our country," said Jim Tripp, general counsel for Environmental Defense Fund. "Whatever the merits of Indeck's contract dispute about its ability to pass through the cost of carbon dioxide allowances, there is no merit to its broad constitutional attacks on the RGGI program under the compact, due process and equal protection provisions of the U.S. Constitution. Contrary to Indeck's claims, the cost of carbon dioxide allowances it not a tax under NY State law, so we will vigorously defend the legal underpinnings of this critical program."

"The RGGI is a critical tool in the fight against climate change, and the state should be commended for developing this important program. Any efforts to derail this historic process should be met with strong opposition," said Sean Mahar, Director of Government Relations, for Audubon New York.

"We have avoided responding to the realities of climate change for far too long," said Carol E. Murphy of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY). "Under New York’s leadership, the northeast stepped up to the challenge and met it head on; all stakeholders should support the result of this collaborative effort and refrain from delaying tactics that threaten the future of our planet," Murphy concluded.
 
"These are precisely the same complaints we heard from power plants when New York improved its acid rain control regulations in 2004 and again more recently when New York took action to protect the public from airborne mercury pollution," said Brian L. Houseal, Executive Director of the Adirondack Council, a privately funded, not-for-profit organization dedicated to protecting the ecological health and wild beauty of the Adirondack Park. "They said they would go broke under the new rules and would move out of state. That was nonsense then and it is nonsense now. Power companies are doing just fine."
 
"The short-sighted self-interest of a power generator cannot derail the most promising, collaborative effort to address the climate crisis," said Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director for Citizens Campaign for the Environment. "Myopic corporate greed must take a backseat and instead be part of the climate crisis solution to protect our region’s people, coastlines, food production and overall economic health," added Esposito.

"This is a frivolous lawsuit," said Abigail Dillen, Earthjustice. "Indeck is just trying to secure special treatment at the expense of a program that is legally sound and also critically important in our fight against global warming."

"RGGI is a crucial first step in addressing power plant carbon emissions that cause climate change—the most urgent threat of our time to the global environment, economy and life as we know it. A concerted effort to defend RGGI among the Northeast states is vital, even while we work for federal legislation and executive action to dramatically reduce the full range of greenhouse gas sources," said Ned Sullivan, President, Scenic Hudson.
 
Susan Coakley, President of Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships (NEEP) states, "The importance of RGGI in fighting impending climate change through its cap and trade program and funding of critical energy efficiency programs cannot be understated. And in this uncertain economic era, the economic benefits from RGGI are exactly what the Northeast region needs."  NEEP is a non-profit company based in Lexington, Massachusetts.

"The RGGI auctions have been successful, and the process should not be derailed by this lawsuit," said Jamie Van Nostrand, Executive Director of the Pace Energy and Climate Center.  "The suit raises no new issues that weren’t addressed during the development of the RGGI auction process." 

Dr. Laurence DeWitt, President of The Commons, observed, "New York has moved to a market system for electric generation—with strong support from merchant generators like Indeck. The auctioning of environmental allowances is totally consistent with such markets, creating a fair and economic sub-market for environmental permits. It is not the job of the public to hold harmless all generators when inherent risks cause them to lose in the market—unless consumers will also recover all extra profits from generators when they gain. That smacks of regulation all over again—implicitly that seems to be what Indeck is proposing." The Commons is a consumer and environmental consulting group based in Albany, NY.

Shaun Chapman, East Coast Campaigns Director for the Vote Solar Initiative, says, "The alarm on climate change, and a clean economy has sounded and New York State residents have overwhelming demanded new energy solutions. We have worked with our neighbors for years to clean up the way our electricity demands are met and the RGGI process was and remains fair and open. When the alarm went off we’re sorry to hear the old power plants slept through it."
   
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. Scientists say that without real reductions in climate change pollution, average temperatures in the Northeast could increase as much as 10 degrees by the end of the century. As a result, public health, infrastructure and coastal property, agriculture and water supply will be threatened.

The U.S. Supreme Court recognized the serious and well-recognized harms posed by climate change and reaffirmed states’ ability to protect their borders and residents by taking action to reduce global warming pollution in Massachusetts v EPA, decided in April 2007.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
January 7, 2009

CONTACTS: 
Carol Murphy, ACE NY: 518-432-1405, Cell: 518-701-9085
Shaun Chapman, The Vote Solar Initiative:  646-330-4606

ALBANY, NY – In his State of the State address today, Governor Paterson pledged to meet 45% of the State's projected energy needs with renewable and energy efficiency measures by 2015. We applaud the Governor’s noble and ambitious goal to expand New York's clean energy sector and believe it a positive step forward in strengthening our future.
 
The Governor is right that the Green Economic Revolution is at hand. Wind, solar, fuel cells, biomass and hydro are the future of energy production in the State and provide tremendous economic boosts to the region. In fact, the State has estimated that wind power alone could provide 20 percent of our electricity demand, and the industry could add 43,000 jobs in New York by 2013. If the State invested in 2000 MW of solar energy it would translate to at least 13,000 new jobs. Fuel cell technology provides hundreds of jobs already in New York and is poised to expand into new product areas. New energy efficiency and demand response measures can ensure affordable, reliable energy for years to come.
 
However, in order to create these jobs, spur our local economies back to life and lower our greenhouse gas output, we need the leadership in Albany to further invest in our green technologies and the vital infrastructure improvements that are necessary to deliver on the promises. Only then can we realize the potential of these renewable energy sources.
 
The Governor compared our current economic situation to the Great Depression. During those troubled times many New Yorkers were put back to work building hydroelectric infrastructure, a clean power resource that provides the State with its cheapest, cleanest energy to this day.  With leadership and vision, we can do it again with a new generation of clean energy technologies.
 
Our economic future depends heavily on the growth of our clean energy sector, and Governor Paterson’s comments today demonstrate his commitment to it. New York has long been the capital of global business; let's not miss an opportunity to lead the world again in the creation of a new clean energy economy. It's time for policy-makers across New York to join the Governor and the clean energy sector in building a new green economy worthy of our great State that protects our planet and puts New Yorkers back to work.
 
Signed,

Carol E. Murphy, Alliance for Clean Energy New York
Shaun Chapman, The Vote Solar Initiative
Fred Zalcman, SunEdison LLC
Carrie Cullen Hitt, The Solar Alliance 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
December 19, 2008


ALBANY, NY – New York made critical progress this week toward becoming a more sustainable, energy efficient state, participating in its first Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) auction. By joining the nine other RGGI states, New York has shown it is serious about curbing its CO2 emissions and investing in energy efficiency and renewable energy.

New York has already invested significant resources in its energy efficiency programs and its renewable energy market, and our clean energy sector is increasingly becoming an engine for job growth statewide. The $41,986,904 in revenue generated by this week’s auction will further bolster this sector, creating more jobs, cleaner energy, and a greener environment. As a member of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority’s RGGI Advisory Board, ACE NY looks forward to helping allocate these funds to the projects that will have the most impact.

Our environmental and economic future depends heavily on the growth of our clean energy sector. Today’s news is a positive sign that New York is continuing to distinguish itself as a leader in the clean energy movement by ensuring New Yorkers will have a greener economy and state to look forward to.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
November 24, 2008                               

CONTACTS:
Carol E. Murphy, 518-432-1405
David Nachtweih, 646-789-7685

ACE NY JOINS ADVISORY GROUP DEVELOPING NEW YORK'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 – 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.

“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.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:          
October 22, 2008                    

CONTACT: 
Carol E. Murphy, 518-432-1405  
David Nachtweih, 646-789-7685

STATE ENERGY LEADERS AND ADVOCATES GATHER TO DISCUSS BUILDING 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 E. 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 E. 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.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:    
September 15, 2008

CONTACT:        
Erica Ringewald, EANY, 518-210-9903
Laura Haight, NYPIRG, 518-436-0876 ext. 258
John Sheehan, The Adirondack Council, 518-432-1770

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.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
August 8, 2008

CONTACT:
Carol E. Murphy, 518-432-1405
Loren Riegelhaupt, 917-921-1850

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."

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 coalition of the world's leading manufacturers and developers of solar photovoltaics. "We applaud 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.

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%

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
April 7, 2008

CONTACT:
Jan Messerschmidt, 212.561.8730 x229

STATEMENT FROM CAROL E. MURPHY, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE ALLIANCE FOR CLEAN ENERGY NEW YORK, ON NYS COMPTROLLER THOMAS DiNAPOLI'S ANNOUNCEMENT OF $500 MILLION INVESTMENT IN CLEANTECH

ALBANY, NY - "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."

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
April 4, 2008

CONTACT:
Jan Messerschmidt, 212-561-8730 x229

STATEMENT FROM CAROL E. MURPHY, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE 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

ALBANY, NY - "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."

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.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
January 9, 2008

CONTACT:
Jan Messerschmidt, 212-561-8730 x229
Carol E. Murphy, 518-432-1405

STATEMENT FROM CAROL E. MURPHY, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE ALLIANCE FOR CLEAN ENERGY NEW YORK, ON GOVERNOR SPITZER’S STATE OF THE STATE ADDRESS

ALBANY, NY - "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."

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
April 25, 2007

CONTACT:
Carol E. Murphy, 518-432-1405 or 518-701-9085 (cell)

LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR PATERSON LAUNCHES CLEAN ENERGY TOUR SHOWCASING NEW ENERGY AGENDA

ALBANY, NY - Today Lieutenant Governor David Paterson will begin a tour of clean energy projects across New York state, highlighting the innovations that are being made in renewable energy technologies and the Spitzer administration’s commitment to a clean energy agenda.

“We are excited to see the Lieutenant Governor making renewable energy a priority for this administration’s agenda,” said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY). “This tour is an outstanding demonstration of the Spitzer administration’s support for the renewable and energy efficiency technologies that will help us to meet our clean energy goals and establish New York as a leader in emerging technologies.”

Over the next two days Lieutenant Governor Paterson will travel to four clean energy technology sites in New York City and Syracuse. These visits will showcase the latest advances in alternative fuels, underwater turbines, green buildings, as well as the programs that are being developed at our state universities to meet the future demand for skilled workers in the renewables industry.

Organizations on the itinerary include: Verdant Power Headquarters, the Millennium Apartment Complex, Northeast Biofuels and SUNY School of Environmental Science and Forestry.

The Roosevelt Island Tidal Energy, (RITE) project demonstrates the use of underwater wind mills operating in the East River. “The RITE project is the first in the world of its kind. It’s a true public-private partnership between New York State, New York City and Verdant Power and as such it is really the people of New York’s project,” said Ron Smith, Chairman of Verdant Power. “The Verdant project demonstrates to the world that new technology can be delivered through New York City and New York State.” added Smith.

The Lieutenant Governor was scheduled to tour the Millennium Apartment Complex that highlights the use of solar power in New York City, but his tour was cut short due to the shooting of two state troopers.

The tour follows an announcement by the Administration late last week outlining a robust clean energy policy that will focus on reducing energy demand, increasing efficiency, and investing in renewable sources of power. This long term strategy will lower energy costs for New Yorkers and jump start the energy sector with advances in technology that create jobs and draw investment to the state.

Also outlined in the proposal is a long overdue power plant siting law that would fast-track clean power sources, like wind energy, as well as providing support for actions by the Public Service Commission to decouple utility profits from volume of power sales.

“This is an exciting time,” said Murphy. “Very soon we will begin to see the many ways that a progressive energy policy can help to revitalize New York’s economy and drive down the polluting emissions that threaten the health and well being of New Yorkers and contribute to global climate change.”

With the establishment of the Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) in 2004, New York made a commitment to generate 25 percent of its electricity from renewable energy technologies by 2013.

As part of his clean energy agenda, last week Governor Spitzer announced the selection of twenty one projects that will receive awards for contracts in the second phase of the RPS program, including updates to ten existing hydroelectric facilities, nine new wind facilities and two biomass facilities. The projects are expected to result in $1.4 billion of investment in New York.

“The policies outlined by the governor provide a welcome focus on the goals and agenda of ACE NY,” concluded Murphy. “We look forward to working with the administration to make sure that New York meets its clean energy goals and continues to develop policies that will spur development and investment in clean power technologies.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
April 20, 2007

CONTACT:
Valerie Strauss, 518-432-1405

STATE MAKING PROGRESS TOWARD CLEAN ENERGY GOAL

Second Round of Renewable Portfolio Standard Awards Announced

ALBANY, NY — The Alliance for Clean Energy NY (ACE NY) applauds the Governor’s clean energy strategy for New York. ACE NY firmly supports the Governor’s call for investments in energy efficiency and clean power generation. An emphasis on increased energy efficiency and a one-stop, expedited siting process for clean power generation combined with the financial assurances provided by long term contracts will promote needed investment in New York.

“Investment in efficiency and renewable energy sources will provide broad economic development, energy security and environmental benefits for the State,” stated ACE NY Executive Director Carol E. Murphy.

ACE NY also was pleased to see the announcement, in conjunction with the Governor’s statement on energy policy, of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) and the Public Service Commission (PSC) on the awarding of contracts worth $295 million over 10 years for 21 renewable energy projects under the state’s Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS). The RPS was established in 2004 to meet the Public Service Commission’s goal of generating 25 percent of New York’s electricity from renewable sources by 2013.

“The Alliance for Clean Energy New York recognizes the state’s continued leadership and commitment to producing a portion of our electricity from clean, renewable sources,” said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director. “As the RPS program continues to develop and evolve, all New Yorkers will receive the benefits in the form of lower energy prices, a cleaner environment, and a growing economy.”

The 21 winning bids include 9 wind farms, 10 hydroelectric project upgrades and 2 biomass projects. These projects, selected in the second phase of the state’s RPS program, are expected to leverage $1.4 billion in renewable energy investments in upstate NY and can provide 2.6 million MWh of electricity per year to New York retail customers.

The Maple Ridge wind farm alone, one of the first projects to be constructed under the RPS and the largest wind farm east of the Mississippi is currently producing enough emissions-free electricity to power 140,000 homes.

“In the underserved and economically stressed regions of upstate new York, these clean energy developments are breathing life back into struggling small communities and helping rural families to preserve their land and their way of life,” said Murphy.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
January 15, 2007

CONTACT:
Carol E. Murphy, 518-432-1405

ALLIANCE FOR CLEAN ENERGY NEW YORK NAMES ENERGY VETERAN VALERIE STRAUSS AS NEW DEPUTY DIRECTOR

ALBANY, NY — The Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY) announced today that Valerie Strauss has joined the fast-growing organization as its first Deputy Director. In this position, Strauss will head up policy development and assist the Executive Director in day-to-day operations.

“Adding Valerie to our team will advance the clean energy agenda exponentially in New York“,” said ACE NY Executive Director Carol E. Murphy. “Her extensive New York and international experience with renewable energy issues and players makes her an invaluable addition to our core staff.”

Strauss formerly worked as a Senior Policy Analyst with Albany law firm Young, Sommer, Ward, Ritzenberg, Baker and Moore where she represented the wind energy industry in the policy and regulatory arenas including the New York Public Service Commission, the New York Independent System Operator, the New York State Energy Research Development Authority and the State Legislature. She also has extensive experience assisting the firm’s attorneys in helping private sector clients obtain necessary permits for wind energy projects. In conjunction with attorney Doug Ward, Strauss headed up the American Wind Energy Association’s Windpower New York initiative.

Prior to moving to Albany, Strauss served as a consulting project manager for environmental consulting firms in Madrid, Spain and Alexandria, Virginia. She holds a Masters Degree with honors in Urban Planning from UCLA and a Bachelors Degree from the University of California at Berkeley. She resides in Delmar, New York with her husband and two children.

“With over 40 members representing a variety of clean energy companies and supporting non-profit groups joining in just one year, combined with an increased public and political focus on renewable energy and energy efficiency, I believe that ACE NY is the most exciting organization in Albany today,” said Strauss. “Officially joining the ACE NY team will allow me to continue to play a role in developing energy policy for the people of the Empire State.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
January 3, 2007

CONTACT:
Carol E. Murphy, 518-432-1405

SPITZER'S PROMISE TO IGNITE UPSTATE ECONOMY WITH CLEAN ENERGY IS A WIN-WIN

ALBANY, NY — The Alliance for Clean Energy New York applauds Governor Spitzer’s commitment to energy conservation and clean energy, specifically his pledge to meet the goal of obtaining 25 percent of New York’s energy needs from renewable sources.

Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY), said, “Governor Spitzer deserves credit for his recognition that clean and green energy sources can spark an economic resurgence in upstate New York while providing needed power and environmental benefits for all.”

For example, new wind power facilities bring great economic and environmental benefit to host communities. Not only do these facilities produce power without the air pollution that causes global warming, acid rain, and smog, they keep energy dollars in-state; provide tax revenue to local towns, schools, and counties; provide lease payments to struggling farmers and other landowners; and create construction jobs. In this way, and through tax payments, wind power projects bring new revenue to local communities without changing their rural way of life.

Murphy continued, “We are pleased the Governor recognizes the importance of energy conservation and efficiency, as it is the fastest and cheapest way to meet increasing demand. Using energy more efficiently and using home grown, pollution-free resources keeps more of our energy dollars in state, rather than sending them elsewhere.” New York currently imports the fossil fuel used for most of our electricity, with a price tag of over $6 billion a year.

Clean energy companies manufacturing fuel cells, solar components, and biofuels are already located in New York, but there is a great potential to grow these businesses and attract even more clean tech investment to New York State.

“We welcome Governor Spitzer’s acknowledgment that New York can improve the economy and the environment by supporting energy efficiency and new, clean power generation from solar, wind, hydro, fuel cells and biomass resources. The Alliance for Clean Energy New York looks forward to working with the new administration to ensure we safeguard the earth’s climate while providing jobs and a healthy environment for present and future New Yorkers,” concluded Murphy.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
August 4, 2006

CONTACT:
Carol E. Murphy, 518-701-9085

ACE NY SAYS RECORD NEW YORK STATE ELECTRICITY DEMAND UNDERSCORES NEED FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY AND IMPROVED EFFICIENCY

New York Renewables Offer Energy Security, Grid Stability, and Environmental Benefits

ALBANY, NY – The Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY) pointed to the recent heat wave resulting in two new peak demand records in New York’s electricity usage this week and the power outages in New York City last week as a clear signal to add more renewable energy and energy efficiency to the power grid.

On Wednesday, August 2, during the 2:00 p.m. hour, the electric grid operator - the New York Independent System Operator (NYISO) - reported that the state had achieved a new peak demand for electricity of 33,939 megawatts. This usage eclipses the record of 32,075 megawatts set just one year ago on July 26, 2005, by 1,864 megawatts. The difference is enough electricity to power approximately 1.8 million average New York households. This dramatic increase in demand over a one-year period is unprecedented in New York’s history and underscores the need for investment in energy efficiency and the addition of significant amounts of new, clean power to the grid.

“Contrary to conventional wisdom that the majority of new demand for electricity comes from downstate, our analysis shows that this growth in electricity usage is evenly divided between upstate and downstate,” said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York. “When we compared 2005’s peak numbers upstate with August 2, 2006 numbers we found an increase in demand of 968 megawatts in the area from western New York through the Hudson Valley. This increase represents more than half of the load growth statewide.” Murphy noted that large scale wind power can help meet the fast growing demand for electricity, particularly in the upstate regions where wind power is well suited. During the recent peak demand period the Maple Ridge wind farm helped meet this demand by supplying 115 megawatts of power into the grid.

Photovoltaic (PV) systems and fuel cells create power without emitting pollution, and this is particularly important when the haze and air pollution are at their worst during the hot and humid days of summer. Recent studies conducted by the SUNY Atmospheric Sciences Research Center (ASRC) have demonstrated that PV system output closely follows New York City’s peak electrical demand.

Solar can be counted on to generate power when New York City and Long Island need it the most. Studies have estimated that New York City could reliably meet 20 percent of its peak demand needs with solar systems on rooftops, building facades, parking lot infrastructure, etc.

As more stress is placed on the power grid, fuel cells, PV systems and energy efficiency can reduce multiple stresses on the electric system. Those systems with battery storage can provide on-site emergency backup for critical resources like hospitals, police and fire stations, elevators, air conditioners and emergency lights in high rises, and communication services.

“With increasing geo-political instability, our own growing appetite for energy and the environmental and public health issues of global warming and respiratory illnesses confronting us, we should be doing everything we can to ensure our future energy supply comes from clean, renewable, home-grown sources.” said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York.

“Whether it’s wind power, solar power, increased hydro-electric capacity or fuel cells, renewables offer price and grid stability and environmental benefits for New York. We must invest now to secure an
environmentally sound energy future for our children.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 24, 2006

CONTACTS:
Ben Hoen (Author), 718-812-7589 / benhoen2@earthlink.net
Ann Jones, FREE Center, 315-420-0826
Marion Trieste, ACE NY, 518-796-9241
Erica Ringewald, EANY, 518-462-5526 x238 (office), 518-210-9903 (cell)

NEW REPORT FINDS NO EVIDENCE OF IMPACTS ON PROPERTY VALUES FROM WIND FARM

Suggests property value effects should take on less importance in siting proceedings

FENNER, NY - The FREE Center, a Fenner (NY) based organization dedicated to renewable energy education and sustainable practices, today released a study examining the impacts on local property values of the Fenner wind farm. Despite persistent claims that all wind farms adversely affect property values, a report by Ben Hoen, a graduate student of the Bard Center for Environmental Policy at Bard College, finds that property values were unaffected by the installation, in 2001, of a 20 turbine wind farm in the Fenner Township of Madison County, NY.

The report, Impacts of Windmill Visibility on Property Values in Madison County, New York, is being released by the Fenner Renewable Energy Education Foundation (FREE), and will be made available via a website hosted by the Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY). Hoen says, "The likelihood that property values were affected in Madison County is negligible, thereby reducing similar concerns for other communities hosting wind farms."

"Much as we expected," said Donna Griffin, a longtime Fenner resident, wind farm neighbor and FREE Board member, "this study concludes that well-planned wind farms can generate lots of clean power, local tax revenue and still be good neighbors."

High profile proposals for wind farm installations, such as Cape Cod, Massachusetts, have concentrated on the subject of property value effects, where one study projected the effects of the proposal to be $1.35 billion¹ in reduced property values. The phrase, "The wind farm will ruin my view!" has often been heard at public planning meetings for wind farms. "A ruined view would be translated into home prices, yet few studies of actual property value effects from existing wind facilities exist," added Hoen. New York, with its adoption of the Renewable Portfolio Standard, in 2004, plans to increase the percentage of renewable power produced in the state by 7% (over its current 18%) to reach the goal of 25% renewable energy generation by the year 2013. This could mean as many as 30 new wind farms across the state, the report states, and many states in the Northeast have similar goals for renewable energy use and production in their state.

The director of the Bard Center for Environmental Policy, Joanne Fox-Przeworski says, "As the Northeast’s wind energy capacity grows, the frequency of clashes between communities and wind farms will likely increase. Understanding the effects of these developments, through empirical studies of existing sites, is crucial."

"Wind power plays a key role in New York’s clean energy future. From an environmental perspective, it’s a safe source of energy that reduces our dependence on polluting fossil fuels and foreign oil," said Larisa Washburn, program associate of Environmental Advocates of New York. "This study sheds light on a common concern in communities deciding whether or not to build a wind farm and shows that property values are not impacted."

"This study provides valuable information for communities considering wind farm developments," said Carol E. Murphy, Executive Director of ACE NY. "The Fenner wind farm is a showcase for New York showing how wind energy can bring economic development for rural communities with many positive attributes for local residents while producing pollution free energy."

The study is the first on record to visit each home in the study area and ascertain if visibility of the wind farm is possible, and to what degree. Previous studies² have made the assumption that all homes within a certain radius (for instance 5 miles) could see the wind farm, yet this study found that only 33% of the homes in its study area, within 5 miles, could see the turbines. In addition to visibility, distance to the nearest turbine was calculated. The author used this data to ascertain if property value data, obtained from the Madison County Tax Office, was uniquely affected by the turbines. The report finds there to be no measurable effect on values. These findings held even when concentrating on homes that were within a mile of the turbines and those that sold in 2001, immediately following the announcement and construction of the wind farm. Hoen recommends further study of this issue at other sites around the country, and makes specific recommendations for policy makers based on his findings.

The report will be made available through the ACE NY website www.aceny.org.

###

The Fenner Renewable Energy Center is a grass-roots organization recently formed to educate the public on the benefits of renewable energy and other sustainable practices. It has created an informational kiosk for visitors to the Fenner wind farm, and is raising funds to build a LEED-certified energy education center on the wind farm site in Fenner, NY.

The Alliance for Clean Energy New York's mission is to promote the use of clean, renewable electricity technologies and energy efficiency in New York State, in order to increase energy diversity and security, boost economic development, improve public health, and reduce air pollution.

Environmental Advocates of New York is the state’s government watchdog, holding lawmakers and agencies accountable for implementing policy that protects natural resources and safeguards public health. The nonprofit organization is a 501(c) (3) and is the New York State affiliate of the National Wildlife Federation. For more information call 518.462.5526 or visit www.eany.org.

¹ Haughton, J., D. Giuffre, et al. (2004). "An Economic Analysis of a Wind Farm in Nantucket Sound." Beacon Hill Institute at Suffolk University. 2-83. May 1, 2004. Pg. 16.

² For Example: Sterzinger, G., F. Beck, et al. (2003). "The Effect of Wind Development on Local Property Values." Renewable Energy Policy Project. 1-77. May 2003.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 11, 2006

CONTACT:
Steve Sullivan, 518-441-7272
Marion Trieste, 518-796-9241

ALLIANCE FOR CLEAN ENERGY NEW YORK (ACE NY) NAMES CAROL E. MURPHY AS FIRST EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Seasoned Energy Professional Takes on the Challenge of Promoting Clean, Renewable Energy for New York

ALBANY, NY – The Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY) announced today that it has appointed Carol E. Murphy (Latham, NY) as the group’s first Executive Director after an exhaustive search.

ACE NY is a new organization based in Albany, New York, incorporated in January 2006, dedicated to promoting renewable energy in New York. ACE NY’s Board includes leading members of the renewable energy and environmental community.

“We are delighted that Carol will help us lead this exciting new organization into the future. ACE NY’s mission is to guide New York toward a better energy, economic and environmental future and Carol is an ideal choice to help us get there,” said Bruce Bailey, ACE NY Board Member and President of AWS Truewind. “Carol’s exceptional communication skills and expertise has earned her tremendous respect among state officials, legislative and political leaders, public affairs professionals and the environmental community. I can’t think of anyone better suited to take on this challenge,” added Bailey.

“Carol is a highly-effective, energetic, focused professional who knows how to maximize resources and build consensus,” said Katherine Kennedy of the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC); one of ACE NY’s founding members. “Her skills and talents will help New York meet its renewable energy goals and reap the environmental and public health benefits of clean energy.”

Member. “Carol’s leadership will help bring the vast benefits of all forms of renewables to the people“Carol brings a level of professionalism and experience to this organization that will launch it to the next level,” said Patrick Doyle, Director of Development for Horizon Wind Energy and ACE NY Board of New York.”

“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to help the Alliance build public consensus and move toward a clean, independent energy future in New York as the Executive Director for ACE NY,” said Murphy.

“High energy prices, world events and environmental concerns all point to our need to move affirmatively toward a new paradigm for our energy supply. We plan to build state and regional partnerships based upon the strong foundation that has been established by the members and board of ACE NY thus far,” added Murphy.

Murphy has been operating Trailhead Energy Advisors, an energy public affairs firm since 2005. Prior to that she served as the first woman Vice President at the New York Independent System Operator (NYISO), the organization charged with administering New York State’s $10 billion wholesale electricity markets and operating the state’s bulk electric transmission system.

Murphy was the NYISO’s chief spokesperson during the 2003 northeast blackout. She is a recognized expert on energy issues and has been a frequent commentator in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Dow Jones, Washington Post, Newsday, New York Daily News, New York Post, Reuters, Bloomberg News, Energy Daily, Electricity Journal and Platts publications. Her television appearances include CNN, MSNBC, BBC, NPR, Fox national news, Inside Albany, and all local network affiliates.

From 1991-2001 Murphy was the Executive Director of the Independent Power Producers of New York (IPPNY). She became the head of the organization in its early days and during her decade-long tenure, she built the group into a highly influential trade association that has played a key role in shaping energy policy in New York. In 1992 she received the Independent Energy magazine’s “Industry All Star Award” for excellence in government affairs and public relations.

Prior to taking over at IPPNY, Murphy worked as the Legislative Director for the Energy Association and served on both New York State Senate and Assembly central staff. She earned her Masters in Public Administration from Rockefeller College of Public Affairs and Policy in 1979 and graduated cum laude from the State University of New York with a major in History and Political Science.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 4, 2006

CONTACT:
Steve Sullivan, 518-441-7272
Marion Trieste, 518-796-9241

ACE NY CONDEMNS SENATE AMENDMENT TO KILL OFFSHORE WIND FARMS

Group calls for removal of harmful provision before bill is passed

ALBANY, NY – The Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY) today issued a statement expressing strong opposition to a provision in the Congressional Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2006 being advanced by Senator Stevens of Alaska that would could effectively kill the nation’s first proposed offshore wind energy project.

The provision, (Section 414 of the Conference Report on H.R. 889) was slipped into the bill without any consideration by either the House or the Senate. It would grant Governors of states adjacent to offshore wind projects unilateral authority to veto those projects. The legislation would have a chilling effect on all off-shore wind development. ACE NY opposes the proposal on the grounds that it is in direct conflict with national energy policy and an abuse of the legislative process.

“This is a thinly-disguised attempt to stymie renewable energy projects at this time in our nation’s history when we need leadership in the energy arena more than ever,” said Bruce Bailey, ACE NY spokesperson and Chair of the Offshore Committee of the American Wind Energy Association. “Wind power and other renewable energy sources have been identified as a crucial component of this nation’s energy future by environmentalists, business people and recently, President Bush.”

Wind power is the fastest growing source of energy worldwide. Because wind power generates electricity without using fossil fuel, it provides protection against tight energy supplies and rising energy costs. Last year, more than 2,500 megawatts of wind energy capacity was installed in the United States bringing the total to over 9,000 megawatts, or enough power for about 2.3 million average American Homes according to the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA). According to Battelle Pacific Northwest Laboratory, a federal research lab, wind energy could supply about 20 percent of the nation's electricity.

“Because of the strong winds, offshore wind energy development offers the United States one of its best opportunities to reduce its dependence on polluting fuels while helping to moderate the price of fossil fuels,” said Bruce Bailey. “Europe has already constructed a substantial amount of offshore wind power because it realizes the tremendous potential for creating clean, renewable energy. Rather than passing laws to inhibit this resource, the U.S. should be seeking to outpace the Europeans in this area. ”

ACE NY emphasized that there is already a Congressionally-approved process in place for reviewing offshore wind projects and that this proposed amendment would render that process meaningless.

ACE NY notes its position is supported by statements of the United States Senate’s leading experts on energy - Senator Domenici and Senator Bingaman - who have both publicly criticized this special interest legislation as bad energy policy.

“Congress should do everything within its power to facilitate the development of more clean, domestically produced renewable energy such as offshore wind,” said Bailey. “Section 414 of the Conference Report on H.R. 889 directly pushes this nation a step backwards in its energy policy and should be eliminated immediately.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
March 7, 2006

CONTACT:
Steve Sullivan, Power Communications
518-587-5995 (office); 518-441-7272 (cell)
Marion Trieste, Trieste Associates
518-584-7817 (office); 518-796-1491 (cell)

DEDICATED CLEAN ENERGY FUNDS KEY TO NYS FUTURE ENERGY INDEPENDENCE, REDUCING AIR POLLUTION

ALBANY, NY — Representatives and allies of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY) spoke in favor of the State’s renewable energy policy today at the Public Hearing held by the NYS Assembly’s Standing Committee on Energy and Subcommittee on Renewable Energy to examine New York’s policy to encourage the development and use of renewable energy, the Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard, referred to as the RPS.

Fred Zalcman, Executive Director of Pace Law School Energy Project stated, “New York’s renewable energy policy brings many benefits: less pollution, a needed stimulus to our upstate economy; and reduced reliance on imported fuels. Moreover, these benefits come at a small price – about a dime a month for the average household. To my mind, the real question today is not whether the State’s electricity consumers can afford this policy; but rather whether the State can afford NOT to continue with an aggressive program to phase-in greater amounts of renewable energy into our electric supply.”

Rob Moore, Executive Director of Environmental Advocates of New York said, “New York State’s clean energy goals, and the funds that support these goals, put us at the forefront of nationwide efforts to generate energy from clean, safe, and renewable sources. The RPS is an investment in our future and an important complement to the state’s long-standing commitment to make more efficient use of the power we currently generate.”

With wind power, New York can meet its 25 percent renewable energy goal by the year 2013.

Michael Skelly of Horizon Wind Energy stated, “Horizon Wind Energy has been active in the New York State wind energy market since 2000, having recently become the largest operator of wind farms in the state. We remain highly committed to bringing investment in clean, renewable wind energy to the state.”

“Because of the RPS, the wind industry is actively developing sites in upstate New York. This development creates jobs, increases local tax revenue, and stimulates investment in the regions of New York State that need it the most. We expect the industry to grow even more as the RPS takes off in the next few years,” said Anna Giovinetto, Director of Renewable Energy with Noble Environmental Power. The RPS program has sent a positive signal to the investment community, and it’s important that this signal remain consistent.”

“New York’s Renewable Portfolio Standard is an essential element for the faith community’s stewardship of the environment,” noted Edward Bennett, President of New York Interfaith Power and Light. “The enhanced supply of clean renewable energy ultimately protects the very least among us, the very young, the elderly, the poor and the infirmed. This is the community that can least protect itself,” added Bennett.

“New York’s current RPS program is working well and ACE NY encourages its continuance. It is a well-designed policy to bring investment to New York. This investment will bring clean energy projects to New York — projects that fully comply with the State Environmental Quality Review Act. They are subject to the same regulations and oversight as all other forms of development, including other energy projects.” added Bruce Bailey, President and CEO of AWS Truewind and Chair of ACE NY's Board of Directors.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
January 10, 2006

CONTACTS:
Kit Kennedy, NRDC, 347-563-2864 or 212-727-4463
John Stouffer, Sierra Club, 518-469-7713
Larissa Washburn, EANY, 518-462-5526
Marion Trieste, 518-796-9241
Steve Sullivan, 518-441-7272

OUT WITH THE OLD, IN WITH THE WIND!

Public Health and Environmental Groups Celebrate New York’s Newest and Largest Wind Farm, Issue Statement of Support for Wind Power Development in New York

ALBANY, NY – New York’s environmental community gathered today to celebrate the commencement of the new Maple Ridge wind facility in Lewis County at the start of 2006. The project is currently 198 MW, making it the largest wind project in the eastern United States, with further expansion planned. Its turbines are already transforming wind into enough electricity to power 67,000 average New York homes each year. The project quadruples the amount of pollution-free wind power in New York.

A broad group of twenty-two prominent environmental and public health organizations also released a statement titled "New York Needs Renewable Wind Power." Many of these organizations actively advocated for New York’s latest renewable energy policy, which seeks to ensure that 25 percent of the electricity used in New York be produced by clean, renewable technologies, like wind, solar, fuel cells and low-impact hydropower, by 2013. Maple Ridge is one of the first projects to be constructed under this new renewable energy policy and is by far the largest.

The organizations also announced the launch of www.aceny.org, a new internet resource to promote clean renewable technologies and energy efficiency in New York.

"With wind power we have a proven technology that can provide substantial amounts of reliable, affordable and pollution-free electricity to New Yorkers across the state," said Gordian Raacke, Executive Director of Renewable Energy Long Island. "I'm proud to be part of this unprecedented effort of environmental organizations and clean energy companies coming together to promote wind power and other clean energy technologies throughout our region."

"Here’s a New Year’s Resolution come true — the New York environmental community is coming together to celebrate the opening of the Maple Ridge wind project and the many clean air and public health benefits of wind power," said Katherine Kennedy, Senior Attorney, Natural Resources Defense Council. "We need to support sustainable energy solutions, and well-sited wind power is an important part of the answer to New York’s energy needs."

John Stouffer of Sierra Club-Atlantic Chapter said, "Wind power is a key component of a secure and sustainable energy future in New York State."

Jason Babbie of the New York Public Interest Research Group (NYPIRG) stated, "Developing more clean and green renewable energy is good for New York State and its residents. Consumers benefit from renewable energy's price stability, local economies benefit by keeping energy dollars in the state, and everyone benefits from power that doesn't cause public health problems and global warming."

"From Long Island to Grand Island, CCE has reached out to tens of thousands of households and found strong public support to increase our use of wind power," stated Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director of Citizens Campaign for the Environment (CCE). "Wind power is the most effective, large scale renewable energy technology available today. New York is poised to lead the nation bravely into the energy future by supporting and investing in this safe, clean domestically produced energy.

Larissa Washburn of Environmental Advocates of New York stated, "Wind power could supply 20 percent of our energy needs, providing electricity for 2.5 million homes. As a safe, abundant, and pollution-free source of energy, wind power not only helps to safeguard human health and the environment, it offers tremendous benefits for local communities."

"We welcome the shift to clean renewable power," said Edward Bennett of New York Interfaith Power and Light. "The faith community believes wise environmental stewardship protects the least among us and all of God’s creation. We’re encouraging congregations to be good stewards of God’s creation by using renewable energy and reducing demand by taking energy efficiency and conservation measures in their houses of worship and personal lives."

"Wind promises to be the next cash crop, providing a much needed economic boost to the Upstate New York economy," said Fred Zalcman, Executive Director of the Pace Law School Energy Project.

"Wind is a great primal energy source," said Jim Tripp, General Counsel of Environmental Defense. "Harnessing it to produce electrical energy reduces stresses on climate, ocean and ecological systems. Wind energy is increasingly cost-competitive. Its impacts can be mitigated. NYS has plenty of wind from Long Island to the Great Lakes. The State should pursue aggressively a broad array of initiatives to capture this indigenous source of energy."