New York state law mandating that the majority of energy come from renewable or non-fossil fuel sources within just five years is fraught with hot air and unattainable, leaving small-sized businesses as viable alternatives. said former Republican Gov. George Pataki, who championed nuclear power plants. .
“About wind and solar… [if] The wind isn't blowing, the sun isn't shining, so what are we going to do? ” Pataki said on Sunday. on 770 WABC's “Cats Roundtable” show.
“There is a huge and pressing gap between energy use and energy generation in New York State.”
The former governor was referring to the 2019 Climate Act, which was approved by then-Gov. The state legislature is run by Andrew Cuomo and the Democrats.
The law's requirements include ensuring 70% of electricity comes from renewable sources by 2030 and achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2040. Many energy experts and business leaders say the mandate is costly.
The law calls for reducing economy-wide greenhouse gas emissions by 40 percent by 2030 and by more than 85 percent by 2050 compared to 1990 levels.
Pataki called the law “incredibly short-sighted and ignorant.”
“That's not going to happen. Like it or not, we have to continue producing fossil fuel power,” he said.
He added that by 2040, the difference between New York state's energy use and energy generation is projected to be nearly 50%.
“New York State's energy needs are likely to double between now and 2040, but right now we don't have the ability or plan to close that gap in any way that actually works,” Pataki said. said.
“We have to start planning now to introduce something new.” [energy] sauce [into effect]. The most logical is a small nuclear reactor that can generate electricity locally and fuel an entire community with zero emissions. ”
He said small nuclear weapons have been used on submarines and aircraft carriers for decades.
“I hope the states get their act together and start thinking about it in a proactive way soon,” the Republican added.
Gov. Kathy Hochul's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
But at an energy summit in September, Hochul and state energy officials said they were considering the reactor as part of New York state's clean energy goals.
Hochul faced significant backlash when he pushed for a proclamation banning gas stoves in favor of electric stoves in all new buildings starting next year.
