New York climate goals face challenge as concern mounts about energy reliability

"Through late next month, the Public Service Commission is accepting comments on the proposal to suspend or modify the green energy transition goals set by Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, which mandate that the Empire State run on 70% renewable energy by the end of this decade and go completely emissions-free by 2040. A clause in the law gives the commission the power to suspend the renewable energy goals if they interfere with providing affordable, safe and reliable power to New Yorkers."

"The petition cites an October 2025 report released by the New York Independent System Operator, or NYISO, a not-for-profit corporation that represents the state's grid operators. The report forecast an energy gap, increased power needs of 50% to 90% and concerns over grid reliability. The findings also state that the renewable energy goals are not feasible due to federal interference with permits for wind power as well as the discontinuation of subsidies for solar and wind energy."

Through late next month the Public Service Commission is accepting comments on a proposal to suspend or modify the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act goals that require New York to reach 70% renewable energy by 2030 and achieve zero-emission electricity by 2040. A statutory clause permits suspension if targets interfere with affordable, safe and reliable power. A coalition of upstate business councils, manufacturing and construction trade groups petitioned to invoke that clause, arguing the Renewable Energy Program may impede adequate electric service. The petition, signed by two state committee members, cites an October 2025 NYISO report forecasting an energy gap, 50–90% increased power needs and feasibility issues tied to permitting and subsidy changes.

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