State lawmakers continue to share energy concerns for residents, local businesses

North Tonawanda, N.Y. (WBEN) - State leaders in Albany continue to share their concerns with the reliability of New York's power grid, and the ever-increasing costs of energy for residents and local business owners and manufacturers.

In recent meetings with a number of Western New York businesses in his district, State Sen. Rob Ortt (R) says among the top concerns business owners and manufacturers continue to have is the cost of their utility bills, and its detrimental effect on their bottom line.

“Democrats in Albany have set our state energy policy on a dangerous path that is overly reliant on an electrical grid that can withstand current demands, while simultaneously divesting from safe, reliable fossil fuel power sources. They are increasing the demand on an already stressed grid, which is not only making power less reliable for residents and business, but also driving up cost," said Ortt during a visit to Confer Plastics in North Tonawanda on Wednesday. "We should be investing in a diverse energy portfolio that allows us to access not only reliable, but also affordable energy."

Others have voiced their concerns with the reliability of New York’s power grid, as they feel the state has decommissioned many previously reliable power plants in its efforts to pursue an energy policy that is heavily reliant on electric power transmission.

“Families, small businesses, and manufacturers across Western New York are feeling the impact of rising energy costs every single month. At the same time, they're being asked to trust an electric grid that many worry is becoming less reliable. We need energy policy that is practical, affordable, and dependable," said State Assemblyman Angelo Morinello (R). "One that protects jobs, supports economic growth, and ensures New Yorkers have access to the reliable power they need. Our manufacturers shouldn't have to question whether they can remain competitive because of energy costs driven by decisions in Albany."

For local manufacturers like Bob Confer, president of Confer Plastics, he feels it's important for New York State to not lose sight with its past energy successes that made such a great asset.

“Electricity had long been one of New York’s greatest strengths. But, in just the past few years, it has become one of New York’s greatest weaknesses. Now, homeowners and businesses alike fret about the reliability and affordability of energy. We are the Empire State for a reason," said Confer on Wednesday.

The Senate Republican Conference introduced a host of energy-related bills - many of which were struck down in Democrat-led committees. However, through bipartisan efforts, Senate Republicans were able to secure a delay in the costly electric school bus mandate, and the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act.