Hochul’s Nuclear Technologies Blueprint Would Decelerate New York’s Climate Goals
Vote Solar Urges State to Consider Local Solar and Other Proven Solutions
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 10, 2024
Syracuse, NY – In response to Governor Hochul’s “Draft Blueprint” outlining the potential deployment and federal funding of nuclear power generation in New York, Vote Solar and Solar United Neighbors submitted comments highlighting major concerns. According to these organizations, the Blueprint does not adequately account for the serious and documented risks associated with developing new nuclear resources and references the economic potential of nuclear while ignoring the faster, safer, and more reliable economic benefits of distributed energy resources (DERs).
According to comments, the Blueprint overlooks the safety hazards and economic setbacks nuclear energy creates, while also failing to consider the vocal opposition of New York’s Indigenous communities, whose land projects could be sited on.
“While the Blueprint may seem enticing due to its potential for large-scale carbon-free generation, it is still a high-risk option that should not be seriously considered,” said Lindsay Griffin, Vote Solar’s Northeast Regulatory Director. “The safety risks associated with nuclear energy are well documented, imperiling nearby communities, posing catastrophic consequences in case of accidents, and generating hazardous waste.”
In addition to safety risks, the comments from Vote Solar and Solar United Neighbors outlined more effective solutions New York should deploy.
“Nuclear projects are notorious for delays and cost overturns, while proven solutions, such as local solar and other distributed energy resources, offer safe and swift results,” said Elena Weissmann, Vote Solar’s Northeast Regulatory Director. “The serious and long-term costs associated with new nuclear technologies are far too significant, especially when compared to the low cost and high reward of DERs.”
“Local solar energy is a proven way to help New York families save money by taking control of where their energy comes from,” said Glen Brand, Solar United Neighbors’ VP of Advocacy & Policy. “Local solar energy is resilient, safe, and empowers consumers, not monopoly utilities. All New Yorkers will benefit from an energy system that puts rooftop solar at the cornerstone.”
DERs such as solar, thermal energy networks, and battery storage can be safely and swiftly deployed, scaled efficiently, and deliver immediate carbon reductions while saving the state $28 billion over the next 30 years. Vote Solar urges New York to focus on these DER solutions and prioritize their deployment in ways that serve the state best.
About Vote Solar
Vote Solar is an energy justice non-profit working towards a 100% clean energy future by bringing solar to the mainstream. Founded in 2002, Vote Solar advocates for clean energy in legislative and regulatory arenas at the state level, where most decisions about electricity are made. Despite powerful opposition, we use a winning combination of deep policy expertise, coalition building, and public engagement to get the job done.
About Sun United Neighbors
Solar United Neighbors represents the needs and interests of solar owners and supporters. Together, we’re creating an energy system that benefits everyone, with rooftop solar at the cornerstone. We hold events and education programs to help people become informed solar consumers, maximize the value of their solar investment, and advocate for fair solar policies.