Energy and Climate

How we produce energy, and how we consume it, are critical issues in today's world. Whether you are a landowner, a builder, a well driller, a teacher or a student, there is information on this website for you.

Energy Production - Oil and Gas

Extraction of minerals through drilling is a half-billion-dollar industry in New York State. To prevent environmental damage from well drilling and operation, DEC requires environmentally sound drilling practices, safe closure of exhausted wells, and financial guarantees to ensure that well owners and operators carry out their environmental responsibilities.

This website includes information about state regulatory requirements for all underground drilling, as well as data on well drilling, productivity and closures. Information is also provided about geology and the status of New York's oil, gas and solution salt industry.

Energy Consumption - Green Buildings

Climate change is tied to the way people use energy. State policies and programs encourage and help New Yorkers to reduce the amount of energy they use in their daily lives.

To promote buildings that save energy and minimize environmental impact, New York is among the first states to offer tax incentives for environmentally friendly buildings. DEC regulations that determine what design and building practices will be eligible for tax relief are available on this website.

DEC's Central Office is housed in a green building in Albany; regional offices are upgrading to increase energy efficiency. DEC encourages environmentally friendly construction, using Environmental Excellence Awards to recognize leaders whose innovative and environmentally sustainable practices or creative partnerships help to solve environmental challenges.

More about Energy and Climate:

Oil & Gas - Facts about oil, gas and solution salt wells in New York State and how these wells can impact the lives of all New Yorkers

Climate Change for Students and Educators - Climate change information, resources, activities, and curricula for students, formal teachers, and non-formal educators.

Renewable Energy - New York State has great potential to generate power from renewable sources such as the sun, wind, water, and biomass.

Green Buildings - Green buildings use resources-energy, water, materials, and land more efficiently and effectively and they provide healthier environments for working, learning and living

Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative - The Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, or RGGI, is a cooperative effort by Northeastern and Mid-Atlantic states to reduce carbon dioxide emissions