Environment DEC
From the May 2007 issue
New York's Plan for Reducing Energy Costs, Curbing Pollution and Addressing Global Climate Change
New York has created a plan with the most aggressive energy-efficiency goal in the nation while reducing greenhouse gas emissions throughout the state. The plan focuses on energy efficiency, conservation and investment in renewable energy sources as key to achieving economic and environmental goals.
Energy Star appliances help to protect the environment and pay for themselves in time
"Nowhere is the need for a creative new approach more apparent that in our energy sector," Governor Spitzer said. "We have some of the highest electricity costs in the nation and our thinking on energy policy is as outmoded as our aging power plants. But we can make real progress toward economic and environmental goals with a comprehensive program that focuses on energy efficiency and conservation and investment in new technology."
Goals of the Plan
Goals of Governor Spitzer's plan, widely approved by the energy industry and environmental organizations, are as follows:
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Reduce electricity use by 15 percent from forecasted levels by the year 2015 through new energy-efficiency programs in industry and government
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Create new appliance efficiency standards and set more rigorous energy codes for buildings
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Provide $295 million in funding for renewable energy projects throughout the state
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Propose legislation that creates an expedited review process for new wind-power projects, re-powering projects that reduce emissions and other power plants that have very low levels of carbon dioxide emissions
