News Summary
In New York, business groups are advocating for the revival of the Northeast Supply Enhancement (NESE) pipeline project, previously rejected over environmental concerns. Supporters claim that extending the natural gas pipeline would meet energy demands for millions of homes and lead to lower electricity costs. Despite this, the project faces opposition from environmental advocates worried about habitat destruction and climate commitments. State regulators are currently gathering public input before making a decision on the project’s future.
New York – Business groups in New York are advocating for the approval of the Northeast Supply Enhancement (NESE) pipeline project, which was previously rejected due to environmental concerns. If reinstated, the project would extend a natural gas pipeline from Pennsylvania through New Jersey into New York City and Long Island. Proponents argue that this expansion is crucial in addressing energy demands in a region that suffers from limited pipeline capacity.
The NESE pipeline project, estimated to cost around $1 billion, is supported by National Grid and developer Williams. They emphasize that the expanded capacity would supply sufficient natural gas to power over 2.3 million homes, thereby enhancing energy distribution in the densely populated regions of New York City and Long Island. Business leaders contend that approving the project could lead to lower electricity prices and improved reliability across the New York electric grid.
The revival of the NESE project gained momentum in May, following negotiations between New York Governor Kathy Hochul and former President Donald Trump. In a reported deal, Trump lifted a work order on a Long Island wind farm, facilitating the project’s reconsideration. National Grid subsequently resubmitted its plans to the New York Public Service Commission in July. Regulators are currently seeking public feedback before making a final decision.
A coalition of business organizations, including the Association for a Better Long Island, Long Island Builders Institute, and Long Island Contractors Association, are united in their support for the NESE project. They argue that the pipeline expansion addresses immediate energy needs while aligning with long-term sustainability objectives, advocating for a balanced approach to energy development in the region.
Energy industry officials point out that inadequate pipeline infrastructure has significantly contributed to higher energy costs in the Northeast. They maintain that natural gas plays an essential role in shaping the region’s energy future, stating that it can provide a reliable source of power while transitioning toward more sustainable energy sources.
Despite this strong backing, the NESE pipeline project has faced stiff opposition from environmental advocates. Previously, the New York Department of Environmental Conservation denied permits for the project based on concerns regarding habitat destruction and substantial impacts on water quality. Environmental groups have reiterated their resistance, arguing that the pipeline contradicts the state’s ambitious climate mandates, which aim for a 40% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and a zero-emission power grid by 2040.
Among the critics is New York City Comptroller Brad Lander, who has raised alarms about the project’s potential financial impacts on consumers. Lander estimates that the NESE pipeline could impose an additional $200 million annually on utility bills for National Grid customers over the next 15 years. He has accused Governor Hochul of undermining climate commitments by reconsidering the pipeline without adequately involving the public in the decision-making process. He is calling on the Department of Environmental Conservation to reject the revived proposal, underscoring the conflict between fossil fuel expansion and the state’s environmental goals.
The decision on the NESE pipeline will have lasting implications not just for energy prices and infrastructure but also for New York’s environmental landscape and its commitment to sustainable energy practices. As state regulators gather public input and weigh the options, both supporters and opponents of the project remain vocal in their positions, reflecting the complexities surrounding energy policy in an era of heightened concerns about climate change and environmental stewardship.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- NYsFocus: Trump Advocates for Pipeline Revival
- Bloomberg: Trump Energy Policy Revives Pipeline Projects
- News 10: Gas Pipelines Eye Return to New York
- New York Times: Constitution Pipeline Under Review
- Canary Media: Constitution Pipeline and Energy Prices
- Google Search: NESE pipeline
- Wikipedia: Pipeline transport
Author: STAFF HERE NEW YORK WRITER
NEW YORK STAFF WRITER The NEW YORK STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewYork.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New York, the five boroughs, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as New York Fashion Week, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and Tribeca Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce and United Way of New York, plus leading businesses in finance and media that power the local economy such as JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Bloomberg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBuffalo.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into New York's dynamic landscape.
