NEW YORK STATE OF NEW ENERGY

His principled positions on facilitating private investment and resisting nuclear development make an interesting combination. But there are stronger positions on efficiency. (See Germany’s proposals below.) Politics is the art of the possible. Does that make saving the earth impossible?

NY aims to lead nation in clean-energy policy
Joan Gralla, April 19, 2007 (Reuters via Yahoo News)

WHO
New York Democratic Governor Eliot Spitzer,

WHAT
Governor Spitzer described an energy policy aimed not at taxes and subsidies but at conservation and efficiency.

WHEN
Spitzer proposes conservation measures for New York state aimed at reducing overall power consumption 15% by 2015.

WHERE
Spitzer’s proposed measures would be statewide.

WHY
- Spitzer’s proposed $295 million in renewable energy projects are to come primarily from private investments in clean energy, wind, solar and hydropower.
- He intends to incentivize investment in new power plants new legislation protective of the environment yet facilitative to rapid permitting and clearing of regulatory obstacles.
- He proposes stringent new efficiency standards for large and small appliances to incentivize the development of the greenest building possible.
- He opposes nuclear plant construction and intends to close the Indian Point nuclear plant north of New York City when alternative electricity generation is available.
- He intends to stimulate private investment in utilities by offering long term contracts.
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QUOTES
Spitzer: "There was not a tax increase [in his new budget]-- nor will there be while I am governor…"
Spitzer: "The public wants nothing more than someone with the fortitude to stand up and do the hard decisions that have to be made."
Spitzer: "There is simply no tolerance in New York State for additional nuclear plants."