The New York State Public Service Commission has approved New York’s Clean Energy Standard which requires 50 percent of the state’s electricity to come from renewable energy sources like wind and solar by 2030.
In its initial phase, utilities and other energy suppliers will be required to procure and phase in new renewable power resources starting with 26.31 percent of the state’s total electricity load in 2017 and grow to 30.54 percent of the statewide total in 2021.
As part of the clean energy initiative, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) will develop a blueprint to advance offshore wind energy, a report already in progress by the authority.
“New York has taken bold action to become a national leader in the clean energy economy and is taking concrete, cost-effective steps today to safeguard this state’s environment for decades to come,” New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said.
“This Clean Energy Standard shows you can generate the power necessary for supporting the modern economy while combatting climate change. Make no mistake, this is a very real threat that continues to grow by the day and I urge all other states to join us in this fight for our very future.”
The Clean Energy Standard will be enforced by requiring utilities and other energy suppliers to obtain a targeted number of renewable energy credits each year. These credits will be paid to renewable developers to help finance new renewable energy sources that will be added to the electric grid.
“Through the Clean Energy Standard, New York will be attracting billions of dollars in private investment for new renewable power supplies, developing new jobs and new green choices for consumers,” Public Service Commission Chair, Audrey Zibelman, said.
”CES adoption will bring numerous benefits to consumers, including a reduction in carbon and other harmful pollutants, and continued maintenance of fuel diversity. It is a crucial addition to the Commission’s actions under Reforming the Energy Vision to integrate clean energy into the fabric of a modern, efficient and secure power system. New York is now on its way to ’50 by 30′ and even more renewable power will be within our reach.”