“We strongly support the recognition by Governor Cuomo that New York’s existing nuclear energy plants must be a component of the state’s clean energy strategy, and his intent to develop market mechanisms to provide financial support for clean, safe and reliable nuclear plants. However, we urge the administration to adopt this measure and include all of the state's nuclear facilities. In order to reduce carbon emissions, we need an all-of-the-above approach that preserves all of the state’s existing nuclear assets.
New York’s current nuclear energy plants provide 60% of the state’s carbon-free power and over 30% of the state’s energy. These numbers will soon be reduced with the upcoming closure of the James A. Fitzpatrick facility. In addition, a range of third-party experts have found that the further loss of these critical assets would cost New York families and businesses billions of dollars per year. Clearly, the state’s remaining nuclear energy plants provide significant economic value, as well.
We welcome this announcement at a time when these benefits are at risk in New York. Hopefully, other states will follow in New York’s footsteps in recognizing that action must be taken to ensure existing nuclear plants are preserved for the sake of meeting state and national clean energy goals.”