New York regulators have warned that federal policy may slow the energy transition in the east coast state, even as electricity demand is set to increase dramatically in the coming years.
“Shifting priorities at the federal level are anticipated to impact long-term planning, investment decisions, and possibly the pace of transition to clean energy,” the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) said.
NYSERDA has launched a draft plan this week for the next 15 years of energy policy in the state.
The authority predicted a significant growth in energy demand through to 2040, a “marked changed from the relatively flat electricity usage over the past decade”.
“The federal administration’s energy and unpredictable tariff policies bring additional political and regulatory uncertainty, which threatens critical federal support for clean energy development and creates barriers to private investment,” NYSERDA’s draft plan stated.
The document will now go out for public comment.
NYSERDA president and CEO Doreen Harris (pictured) said: “With the release of the Draft State Energy Plan we are proactively planning for the energy needs of the future with a clear-eyed and comprehensive assessment of the current energy systems alongside projected energy demands and infrastructure needs.
“Adaptability and resource diversity are key to ensuring New York’s energy abundance and affordability, which are reflected in the recommended actions contained in the Draft State Energy Plan that we are pleased to share for public review and feedback.”