Hochul on CLCPA 'We need a longer runway'

Hochul backtracking on Cuomo's energy plan
Rising gas prices are hurting the New York economy, says Gov. Hochul.
Gov. Kathy Hochul, center, says rising gas prices are hurting New Yorkers. Photo credit Jim Fink/WBEN

Don't get her wrong: Gov. Kathy Hochul still believes New York should be taking measures to make the state greener and less reliant on traditional fossil fuel alternatives.

But to achieve the goals spelled out in 2019's Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA) pushed by then-Gov. Andrew Cuomo, Hochul said more time is needed.

"We need a longer runway," Hochul said.

Under Cuomo's plan, New York had be CLCPA compliant by 2030 - a move that has been heavily criticized by business and private sector groups but applauded by environment advocacy groups.

Adding another layer to the energy issue, a state supreme court ruling said Cuomo's 2030 date should be the rule. That court decision remains under appeal.

Hochul said she prefers an "all of the above" approach that marries a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions but also allows for natural gas options.

Adhering to the CLCPA standards could result in dramatically increased gas and utility costs for consumers and businesses.

"If we do that, I can tell you as sure as I'm standing here, our costs will go up dramatically," Hochul said.

Hochul said if the court is enforced, New York is nowhere near ready to comply.

"We are not ready for it," Hochul said.

A report issued earlier this month by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority warned that a typical household that relies on natural gas and heat could see their utility bills rise by as much as $4,000 per month by 2031.

Hochul said relying on more clean energy is a "noble" effort and one she backs a more common sense approach.

"I have a responsibility to protect people from rising costs," Hochul said.

Featured Image Photo Credit: Jim Fink/WBEN