Nassau Standard

As utility costs rise for Long Islanders, questions are being raised about the feasibility of New York's Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA). The act aims to create a cleaner environment, but concerns have been voiced regarding its impact on energy reliability and affordability.

Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, representing the 9th Senate District, emphasizes the need for a balanced approach. "I want to leave our future generations with a cleaner environment," she states. However, she also stresses the importance of maintaining an affordable energy grid.

Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick and her colleagues in the State Senate Republican conference have proposed the Creating Lasting Affordable Energy for New York legislative package. This initiative focuses on clean, reliable, and affordable energy. One key proposal is delaying CLCPA implementation by ten years to allow policymakers more time to plan without overburdening ratepayers.

The legislative package also includes measures to prevent power-generation facilities from closing before new ones are operational. Citing Indian Point nuclear power facility as an example, Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick notes its significant contribution to New York City's energy needs before its premature shutdown.

Additionally, the Ratepayer Relief Act aims to reimburse ratepayers through tax credits and cuts, potentially saving them over $100 million. Homeowners could receive a $5,000 tax credit for solar installations under another proposal within this package.

Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick highlights further initiatives such as local control over renewable energy project siting and investments in alternative clean energy sources like green hydrogen. She argues that these proposals will aid New York's transition to a cleaner grid without compromising reliability or increasing costs for residents.

"Albany cannot continue to expect New Yorkers to keep paying more and more," warns Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick. She advocates for common-sense initiatives as essential steps towards achieving emission reduction goals while ensuring economic sustainability in New York.